Mark Twain Hannibal Museum
(Part 3 of 3)
In our 3-part “Finding the Treasure that is Mark Twain” series, we previously covered his boyhood home and childhood influences on his writings. Now join us on our visit to the Mark Twain (Hannibal) Museum honoring one of America’s most celebrated authors.
The Museum is two blocks down from the boyhood home. It’s location is on the corner of Main and Center Streets, housed in a former 2-story department store, which by the way, dates back to Twain’s lifetime.
One of many statues of Mark Twain throughout the sites.....but this is my favorite.
Location:
120 N Main Street
Hannibal, MO 63401
Museum:
(573) 221-9010
Hours:
Nov-Mar: 10a-4p, daily
Apr-Oct: 10a-5p, daily
Fees: $6-11
Includes 5 historic properties & 2 museums.
Website:
MarkTwainMuseum.org
This giant book display has three sections.
It's Like Stepping Inside Twain's Books
When you walk through the doors and down the ramp, it’s like stepping inside Mark Twain’s books. Interactive displays for his most famous books draw you in for a magical walk. One display leads to the next and lighting directs your focus.
I found the museum to be a treasure trove of sights and sounds along with information. Each corner brought new excitement as I relived moments from Twain’s books.
Tom Sawyer watches nearby as visitors try their hand at "whitewashing" the fence.
Handle movement causes lights to show period toys inside each box.
The few images posted here give you just a smattering of the Museum’s treasures. In addition to “whitewashing” the fence, be sure to explore the cave and "ride" the raft. It really moves!
I try to stay out of camera shot but got caught. The kid in me couldn't resist watching the movie showing in the stagecoach.
Historic artifacts from Twain's life are on display on the Museum's 2nd floor.
Twain's Life and Memorabilia on Display
When you have finished exploring the 1st floor, head upstairs. Be sure to notice the grand staircase when you do. It resembles those found on Mississippi riverboats.
On the 2nd floor you will find Mark Twain’s life on display. Included are many treasured personal belongings, such as his writing desk and chair, pipe, pocket watch, and other clothing items. You will also find historic artifacts of the day.
Did you know Samuel Clemens received his steamboat pilot’s license? He piloted boats from 1859-1861, stopping when the Civil War halted steamboat traffic.
Pull the cord. Hear the riverboat whistle. (Yes, I did!)
The Meaning Behind the Name
So, just how did Samuel Clemens become Mark Twain? Years after he left Hannibal, Sam was working as a reporter for a territorial newspaper. Sent to cover an event, he decided to use “Mark Twain” as his pen name.
The name actually had a special meaning to Clemens. It comes from a riverboat term for measuring water depth. “Mark” is the measure of six feet and “twain” means two. When riverboat crew measured water depth and called out “mark twain” (12 feet), it meant safe water ahead.
Historic artifacts showing just how popular Mark Twain was during his lifetime.
Gallery wall holding Norman Rockwell original paintings for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, 1936 edition.
Signed portrait of Norman Rockwell
Norman Rockwell and Mark Twain
A section of the Museum’s 2nd floor features a gallery of original art by the great American Illustrator, Norman Rockwell.
In 1935, Rockwell received the opportunity of a lifetime. He was selected to illustrate both The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Norman’s story of creating the art is very telling of his diligence in and his desire to properly represent Twain’s work.
Rockwell loaned the 15 original paintings to the Museum. Before his death in 1978, he gave them to the Mark Twain (Hannibal) Museum.
"Lemme see him, Huck. My, he's pretty stiff. Where'd you get him?"
"When I lit my candle and went up to my room that night there sat pap, his own self."
"Then Miss Watson she took me in the closet and prayed but nothing come of it."
Mark Twain's top hat--one of several well-known clothing items on display.
Hannibal Museum Honors America's Celebrated Author
Hannibal, Missouri has a claim to fame, which they heartily promote. However, you will find the city isn’t overrun with touristy shops. They have managed to honor Mark Twain in a way befitting his memory.
The town is a charming little piece of America. Be sure to drop by for a visit…and tell them Worthy Detours sent you.
(Missed the other 2 parts of the series? Read part-1 HERE and part-2 HERE.)
This favorite piece of art by Andy Thomas titled "American Storytellers" hangs in the Museum Gift Shop.
Map showing location of Mark Twain sites
About the Mark Twain Home Foundation
The Mark Twain Home Foundation oversees the historic properties, museums, and gift shops. Donations, tour fees, and gift shop sales support the foundation. It receives no state or federal funding.
Its mission is to “promote awareness and appreciation of life and works of Mark Twain and to demonstrate the relevance of his stories and ideas to citizens of the world.”
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Check out our "Things to Do" page for other Worthy Detour stops.
