Plainfield, Wisconsin Pushes Back Against Infamous Serial Killer Association

Plainfield, Wisconsin, a quiet town with a population of just a few hundred residents, is once again in the national spotlight — but not for reasons the community celebrates. The release of Netflix’s latest anthology series, “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” has thrust the town into the public eye by recounting the life and crimes of its most notorious former resident, Ed Gein, infamously nicknamed “The Butcher of Plainfield.”

The series, which dramatizes Gein’s crimes and their chilling impact on the community, has quickly become a talking point among viewers and media outlets alike. While audiences may be captivated by the gripping storytelling, Plainfield residents are voicing concern about the portrayal and its effect on the town’s reputation.

A Town Defined by More Than a Dark History

Emily Schaut, Plainfield’s Clerk Treasurer, spoke with TMZ about the town’s stance regarding its unwanted association with Gein. She emphasized the community’s ongoing efforts to redefine its identity:

“Just like so many places, Plainfield has dark moments in its history. We acknowledge this, and we have worked diligently to become more than a single story.”

Schaut’s comments highlight the tension many towns face when true crime notoriety overshadows decades of positive community development. While Gein’s crimes were horrifying and have left a lasting imprint on cultural consciousness, residents argue that focusing solely on his legacy misrepresents Plainfield’s present-day character.

The Netflix Series Sparks Controversy

Netflix’s “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” aims to examine the psychology and background of one of America’s most infamous serial killers. The anthology series, known for its dramatized retellings of true crime events, has sparked renewed interest in Gein’s life and crimes — including his gruesome acts of murder, grave robbing, and macabre trophy collection.

While critics praise the series for its cinematic tension and historical insight, some Plainfield residents have expressed frustration and distress over the resurgence of unwanted attention:

“It’s painful to see our town reduced to the backdrop of someone’s horrific actions,” said longtime resident Martha Jensen. “We have families, schools, local businesses, and a strong sense of community that deserve recognition, not just a single dark chapter from decades ago.”

Scholars of media ethics also point to the broader debate surrounding true crime dramatizations. While such productions can educate and entertain, they also risk sensationalizing tragedies, particularly for the families and communities most affected.

Balancing History and Identity

Plainfield’s response reflects a desire to acknowledge history without letting it define the town. Efforts include community events, local education initiatives, and cultural projects that focus on the town’s achievements, natural beauty, and strong social ties.

Residents are actively working to highlight positive aspects of life in Plainfield, from small businesses and community gardens to local sports and festivals. According to Schaut, the goal is to ensure that visitors and media alike see Plainfield as more than a footnote in a true crime story.

“We want the world to know that Plainfield is a vibrant, welcoming community,” Schaut explained. “While history cannot be erased, it does not have to define our present or our future.”

A Broader Conversation on True Crime Media

The controversy surrounding the series also raises questions about how media representations affect small towns and communities connected to historical crimes. True crime content, particularly dramatized adaptations, can inadvertently stigmatize residents, leading to stereotypes, unwanted tourism, and even harassment.

Experts suggest that producers of such content have a responsibility to balance entertainment value with sensitivity, particularly when their subjects are linked to real communities still grappling with the aftereffects of a crime.

“Communities like Plainfield are living reminders that crime stories are not just abstract tales — they impact real people,” said Dr. Laura Simms, a sociologist studying media effects. “When entertainment focuses exclusively on the gruesome aspects, it risks overshadowing the lived experiences and resilience of these communities.”

Plainfield’s Path Forward

Despite the renewed attention, Plainfield residents remain committed to fostering a strong, positive community identity. The town has embraced educational programs, tourism highlighting local history (beyond Gein), and community-led initiatives that reinforce its values and achievements.

For locals, the message is clear: while Ed Gein’s story is undeniably part of Plainfield’s history, it does not define who they are today.

“We are more than the sum of past horrors,” Schaut concluded. “Plainfield is about our people, our culture, and our future — not just a dark moment from the past.”

As Netflix audiences binge the series, Plainfield continues to navigate the challenge of acknowledging its history while reclaiming its narrative, proving that even small towns can assert agency in the way they are remembered.