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The Rahway Unknown Woman in Green: A Haunting Mystery from 1887
The dusty annals of history are replete with unsolved mysteries, but few have lingered as poignantly as the story of the Rahway Unknown Woman in Green. Her death in 1887 near Rahway, New Jersey, shocked the local community and has since become an enduring enigma. The drawing of the woman shown here was made at the time of her death to help identify her.
Over a century later, this haunting case continues to intrigue historians, true crime enthusiasts, and amateur detectives alike. In January, the Profiling Evil Twisted Tales series will shine a new light on this chilling tale. Before diving into the upcoming video release, let us unravel the known threads of this tragic story.
The Discovery of the Woman in Green
On the cold morning of March 25, 1887, four men, walking to work along the Rahway River stumbled upon a horrific scene that would forever etch itself into the fabric of the town’s history. The body of a young woman lay sprawled on the ground, lifeless, her clothing—a green dress—still pristine. Her hands showed signs of a desperate struggle, and her throat bore the brutal marks of homicide by knife.
No identification was found with the body. She carried no personal effects that could point to her identity. Her clothing, while of decent quality, revealed no tailor’s mark or distinctive clue. Law enforcement and the local populace embarked on a fervent quest to uncover her story, combing through records and searching for anyone who might recognize her. Despite these efforts, the woman remained unnamed, her death a cruel puzzle.
The Investigation and Theories
Investigators determined that the woman was likely in her early twenties, well-groomed, and possibly from a respectable background. Her cause of death—a knife drawn from ear to ear, twice. The crime suggested a crime of passion or anger, though no suspects emerged. Forensic science at the time was rudimentary, leaving detectives to rely heavily on witness testimonies and circumstantial evidence.
Some theorized that she was a domestic servant who had fled her employer under duress or a young woman who fell prey to a spurned lover. Others speculated she might have been an immigrant—one of the many young women arriving in America in search of opportunity but vulnerable to exploitation and harm. Without clear leads or modern investigative tools, the case quickly grew cold.
The Community’s Response
The community of Rahway was deeply affected by the tragedy. The woman’s anonymity struck a chord with locals, who rallied to give her a proper burial. Funds were raised to inter her remains in Rahway Cemetery, where she rests to this day beneath a marker that simply reads: “Unknown Woman Found Murdered.”
The grave marker is worn and almost indistinguishable. As Profiling Evil met with the curator of the cemetery and local museum, we decided to ask for donation to help purchase a new, bronze marker that would complement the current headstone and forever acknowledge in clear type, the Unknown Woman.
The grave has since become a somber symbol of the fragility of life and the mysteries that can haunt even the most ordinary places. Visitors occasionally leave flowers or mementos, a quiet tribute to a life cut short and a name lost to time.
A Call to Remember
As we look forward to the video release, there is an opportunity for those moved by her story to contribute toward a lasting tribute. The current grave marker, while poignant, has weathered the elements for nearly 150 years. A new marker, designed to withstand the test of time, could honor her memory and preserve her story for generations to come.
If you wish to be part of this effort, consider donating to the fundraiser dedicated to purchasing a durable grave marker for the Rahway Unknown Woman. Your contribution will not only commemorate her life but also affirm our collective commitment to remembering those who have been forgotten.
DONATE TO A HEADSTONE: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=RQ8ABDR2BYXB6
PROFILING EVIL will match donations up to a total of $500 to ensure that we reach our goal and provide her with a marker that will endure through time.
The Rahway Unknown Woman in Green represents a mystery that transcends time, a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of human curiosity and compassion. Her story, though tragic, has not been forgotten. As modern technology and historical research converge, perhaps one day her identity and the circumstances of her death will come to light. Until then, her legacy remains a testament to the countless unnamed and unsolved tragedies etched into history.
Don’t miss the Profiling Evil Twisted Tales video release in January and join us in honoring her memory by contributing to the creation of a new, enduring grave marker. Together, we can ensure that the Unknown Woman in Green is never forgotten.
Subscribe and make sure you have Notifications turned on so that you don’t miss the video release in January. Thanks for considering a donation to this grave marker! https://www.youtube.com/@ProfilingEvil
Happy Holidays to all of the Profiling Evil Channel Members and friends. For those of you who are Christian, Merry Christmas! I hope the year closes out with you surrounded by family, friends and loved ones. Thanks for considering this donation to help Rahway’s Jane Doe, the Unknown Woman in Green.
All the best, Mike King
Profiling Evil, LLC 
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