In the annals of criminal history, there exist tales of infamy that shock the conscience and defy understanding. Among these dark stories is the tragic and haunting tale of Minnie Dean, the notorious baby farmer of New Zealand. Her life and crimes cast a dark shadow over the late 19th century, revealing a shocking glimpse into the harsh realities faced by unwed mothers and abandoned infants during that era. In this episode, we will delve into the life, crimes, trial, and ultimate fate of Minnie Dean, a woman whose name became synonymous with infanticide in New Zealand.


The late 19th century was a time of great social change, marked by the Industrial Revolution and rapid urbanization. In New Zealand, as in many other parts of the world, the societal norms and values of the time were unkind to unmarried mothers. These women often faced discrimination, social ostracism, and economic hardship. To compound their woes, the illegitimate children born to these mothers were considered a disgrace, leading many desperate women to seek the services of "baby farmers."