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In the spring of 1885, neighbors began noticing strange changes in the McKenna home. Sarah Whitmore, whose property adjoined the McKennas, wrote letters to her sister detailing how the once-ever-present McKenna children had seemingly disappeared from public life. The eldest sons, Thomas and Jacob, who had previously enthusiastically participated in community barn-building celebrations and harvest festivals, had vanished. When questioned about this, Delilah calmly explained that God had revealed to her the need to keep her children completely separate from the spiritual decay of other families.
Meanwhile, Daniel Hayes, the owner of the local general store, was noting some disturbing behavior in his ledger. Delilah’s purchasing habits had changed dramatically. A typical farm family bought seeds, flour, and basic tools. Delilah, however, had begun ordering massive quantities of heavy rope, industrial metal chains, and large padlocks—items she claimed were for livestock. Even more alarming was her constant purchase of laudanum, a powerful liquid opioid, which she insisted was necessary to treat her children’s supposed ailments. Hayes noted in the margin of his ledger that, on the few occasions he had glimpsed the McKenna children from afar, they appeared to be in perfect health. Nevertheless, Delilah continued to purchase enough medical supplies to set up a small infirmary, even ordering restraints and obstetric instruments.
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