The Lonely Hearts Killer by Teresa Inge

As the saying goes, “if it’s too good to be true,” it probably is. The story of Harry F. Powers, the “Lonely Hearts Killer,” is a stark reminder of this caution.

During the 1930s—long before online dating apps—America was gripped by the chilling crimes of Powers, who used “lonely hearts” newspaper ads to lure victims, weaving false promises of wealth and affection to win their trust.

Born in the Netherlands, Powers immigrated to the U.S. and settled in Quiet Dell, West Virginia. Using charm and persuasive letters, he convinced women to travel long distances, believing they’d found love and security during the Great Depression—only for their hopes to end in tragedy.

Among his victims were Asta Eicher, a widowed mother from Illinois, and her three children. Powers corresponded with Eicher, convincing her of his affection and financial stability. Trusting his promises, Eicher traveled with her children to meet him, hoping for a new beginning. Tragically, their journey ended in a soundproof chamber beneath his garage, where he robbed and murdered them.  

Another victim, Dorothy Lemke from Massachusetts, responded to Powers’ ad seeking marriage. After exchanging letters, she traveled to West Virginia, believing she was meeting her future husband. Like Eicher, Lemke was imprisoned and killed, her fate sealed by Powers’ calculated cruelty. 

The disappearances of these women and children sparked an investigation in 1932. Police traced their last known contacts to Powers, eventually discovering his property and the soundproof chamber where the crimes occurred. The case shocked the nation, exposing the dangers of personal ads and the vulnerability of those seeking love in desperate times. 

Powers’ trial became a media sensation, drawing crowds and headlines suggesting he'd killed over 50 women across the country. 

He was convicted and executed in 1932. The tragedy of his victims led to greater scrutiny of personal ads and in popular culture of how trust can be manipulated for sinister purposes.