The Beginning of the End of Martha Rendell

How an Unexpected Mother–Son Reunion Brought Down a Monster

On a seemingly ordinary day—1st May 1909—Sarah Morris was making her way to her West Perth home after a long day at work.

Suddenly, a young boy approached her. She didn’t recognise his face at first—until he revealed his name: George. He was her 14-year-old son.

Since April 1906, when a separation order had been granted, Sarah had not seen or heard from any of her five children—three girls and two boys. She had been ordered away from the family home. Early attempts to keep in touch only led to the children being beaten by their father, Arthur Morris. Not wanting to bring more harm upon them, she stayed away, believing her absence would spare them further misery.

Now, here stood George—clearly distressed, desperate, and begging for help.

He refused to return to his father’s East Perth home, where Arthur now lived with housekeeper-turned-mistress, Martha Rendell. George was adamant: he would rather sleep on the streets than go back if she would not help him.

What Sarah didn’t know was that three of her children had already died slow, agonising deaths under Martha’s so-called care in the intervening years. George was certain he would be next.

Arthur Morris and Martha Rendell

Shocked into action, Sarah went straight to the Perth Police Court and applied for custody of her son. Despite noting her past absence, the magistrate declared it “highly desirable” that the boy not be returned to his father’s custody. He refused to explain his decision in open court, only deepening the mystery.

Rumours quickly began to swirl through the streets of Perth. What was being hidden? What was really happening inside that East Perth home?

The reunion of mother and son proved to be the beginning of the end for Martha Rendell—a woman who would go down in Perth’s history as the very embodiment of the evil stepmother. Behind closed doors, she had slowly and methodically tortured her stepchildren to death under the guise of discipline and care.

Within a few months, the bodies of the deceased children were exhumed. The investigation that followed led to the arrest and trial of Arthur Morris and Martha Rendell. In court, overwhelming witness testimony and damning evidence led to Martha’s conviction and execution.

A desperate boy’s plea, delivered to his long-lost mother on a quiet Perth street, would spark the unravelling of one of Western Australia’s most notorious crimes.

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To uncover more Perth Crime History, please consider booking tickets to Perth’s True Crime Tour here @ https://darkstories.com.au/perth-true-crime-tour/.

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Unleash Your Inner Detective: Order Novelty Mugshot Crime Cards Today!

Ready to unlock your inner detective and add a playful twist to your gatherings? Say hello to our Novelty Mugshot Crime Cards and our Custom Labelled Mugshot Crime Cards!

To start, let’s introduce you to the ‘I Regret Nothing Police Department’ Novelty Cards. From smooth operators to life-of-the-party types, these cards guarantee a laugh at every event. Get ready to dive into the world of Mugshot Crime Cards, and don’t forget; that you can order them through our website to elevate your party game.

Smooth Operator – this person has a knack for sliding into conversations and making everyone feel at ease. Their charm is undeniable, and they’ve been known to steal a few hearts along the way.

Bye Felicia – Known for dramatic exits and unforgettable one-liners, this party-goer definitely leaves their mark.

Thirst Trap – Always the centre of attention, this individual knows how to turn heads and keep the drinks flowing.

Life of The Party – With a knack for livening up any event, this character is the one who keeps the party going till the break of dawn.

Party Princess – Every party’s royalty, this lady knows how to make an entrance and leave everyone in awe. Here’s to another year of reigning supreme!

Gift Wrapped – Always bringing gifts that are as delightful as his presence, this gentleman is a welcome guest at any event. A very Happy Birthday to our Gift Wrapped!

Danceaholic – With moves that can steal the spotlight, this individual is a true dance floor magnet. Happy Birthday, Danceaholic!

Social Flutterby – Flitting from conversation to conversation, this social butterfly keeps the party buzzing. Wishing her another year of delightful social interactions!

The Uninvited – Despite never being on the guest list, this individual always finds a way into the party. Here’s to another year of crashing parties!

Diva – The star of any event, this lady’s presence is always felt and appreciated. Wishing our Diva a year full of glamour and glitz!

Chatterbox – The lifeblood of any gathering, this individual keeps the energy high with their endless tales and anecdotes. Happy Birthday, Chatterbox!

As we raise our glasses, we celebrate these unforgettable characters and their ‘crimes’ that make every party a memorable event.

Purchase your set of Novelty Party Mugshot Crime Cards or create your own Custom Labelled Mugshot Crime Cards through the Dark Stories website today. Perfect for spicing up your next party or surprising your friends and family with a unique gift.

Here’s to another year of laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories!

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How To Survive a Zombie Apocalypse in Perth Library

It’s been a tough old few years getting through the Covid and lockdown years, but I am sorry to say we are not out of the woods yet. With impending doom closing in upon us, it is now essential that you take the steps to get trained in How To Survive a Zombie Apocalypse.

A unique series of events is coming to Perth next month, and I urge you to attend this show. If not for yourself, at least do it for your family. After all is said and done, please remember, your attendance at this event could save a life….you’re own!

How To Survive a Zombie Apocalypse
You’ve beaten Covid, but can you survive the Zombies in the Apocalypse!

How To Survive a Zombie Apocalypse runs for two weekends in early November. Bookings are essential for this show, especially as the attack by the zombie horde is expected imminently. This may be your last chance to prepare for the worst and learn the essential lifesaving skills.

Please read the synopsis carefully and book into this once-in-a-generation show as soon as possible!

Can you survive the impending apocalypse? Experience the drama that will supercharge your senses!

Witness the horror that is the zombie apocalypse in this interactive theatre production right in the heart of town.

The elite team from the School of Survival will be passing through town solely for the purpose to train you in this once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire all the skills you will need in order to survive impending doom.

Learn the ropes of zombie apocalypse survival and force yourself to face the question: “If a horde of zombies was let loose onto the world without warning, would you survive?”

Will you become the night’s sole survivor?

This last night stand against the zombie horde will be hosted in the confines of the City of Perth Library 573 Hay Street, Perth.

Survival is going to require brains.
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