Head-Scratching Facts About The Collyer Brothers, The Original Hoarders
Their Hoard Became Their Grave
Homer and Langley Collyer were a pair of brothers whose reclusive hoarder lifestyle made them something of a local New York attraction. Sadly, in a horrifying twist, their hoard became their grave.
1. They Came From A Respectable Family
Despite their later infamy, the Collyer brothers actually came from a respectable family. Their father, Herman Livingston, was a Manhattan gynecologist, while their mother, Susie Gage Frost, was a retired opera singer.
Homer, the older of the two brothers, was born in 1881, while Langley came later in 1885.
They even had famous ancestors.
2. They Were Related To American Royalty
The Collyer brothers traced their ancestry all the way back to the founding of America. Their parents—who also happened to be first cousins—were descended from the prominent Livingston family.
Reportedly, the brothers were related to the Astors, Roosevelts, and even the Hamiltons.
They actually showed quite a bit of promise.
3. They Were Very Intelligent
Homer and Langley didn’t show any early signs that they would become infamous recluses. In fact, both brothers made it all the way to Columbia University where Homer focused on law and Langley excelled in engineering and chemistry.
Turns out, they were both quite smart and gifted.
4. They Had Promising Careers
While Homer went on to practice law, Langley pursued a musical career. He became a successful concert pianist, even playing shows at Carnegie Hall, and eventually worked as a piano dealer. Additionally, he was an active member of the Trinity Church, a parish his ancestors had attended since the late 17th century. Then something drastic happened.
