Davis Grubb, a renowned novelist and short-story writer, hails from one of the oldest and most prominent families in the Moundsville, West Virginia area. This rich heritage served as a valuable resource for his literary works, including his award-winning debut novel, "The Night of the Hunter".
Inspired by the true story of a thief who preyed on widows through "lonely-hearts" ads, Grubb's novel follows the protagonist as he romances and kills two widows, and subsequently murders three children. Although he was offered the opportunity to write the screenplay for the 1955 film adaptation, Grubb instead created elaborate character sketches for director Charles Laughton and star Robert Mitchum, who were thrilled with his work.
Before turning to writing, Grubb studied painting, but a deterioration in his vision forced him to adopt a new creative outlet. He eventually turned to writing for radio, where he found success.
The "lonely-hearts killer" who inspired Grubb's novel was hanged at the Gothic-style West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville, an institution that also played a significant role in his other novel, "Fool's Parade". The penitentiary, which was closed in 1995 due to its cramped cells, has since become a popular location for ghost-hunting TV series.
Grubb's unflinching portrayal of his hometown's darker aspects, including corruption, racism, and union suppression, made him a controversial figure in Moundsville. His experiences inspired Wes Craven's short-lived TV series "Glory Days", which explores a similar situation of a bestselling novelist returning to his rural birthplace.
Grubb's short stories, characterized by their macabre events, vivid characters, and evocative descriptions, have also been adapted into episodes of the TV series "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" and "Night Gallery".
