When you think of Mark Twain’s home, Hannibal, Missouri, comes to mind. It’s true, he grew up in Hannibal, starting at age four. But he was born about 40 miles southwest of Hannibal, in Florida, Missouri. Today, the preserved two-room cabin where the writer was born is on display at the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site, near Florida.
The home was moved to its current location in 1930. Years later, a building was erected around the cabin to protect and preserve it. The Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site also includes artifacts from the author’s life, and a wealth of information about him.
Here are ten fascinating facts about Mark Twain’s life that we learned during our visit to the state historic site.
Credit: popovaphoto/Getty Images 
Credit: The Everett Collection 
This carriage was used when the Clemens family lived in Hartford, Connecticut. Mark Twain’s daughter, Clara, gifted it to the State of Missouri. 
Credit: The Everett Collection/Charles E. Bolles 
Credit: The Everett Collection 
Credit: The Everett Collection
Recently someone in Missouri sent me a picture of the house I was born in. Heretofore I have always stated it was a palace, but I shall be more guarded now.”
— Mark Twain
If You Visit the Mark Twain Birthplace
Museum hours vary by season. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Check the museum website for further details.
After visiting the museum, drive the quarter mile or so to the home’s original site. The site is marked with a granite monument, erected by the State of Missouri.
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