Exhibits

North Wing Main Floor Exhibits

Wit and Wisdom of a World Traveler
Did you know that during his time, Mark Twain was best known as a travel writer? He traveled as far as India, New Zealand, and the southern tip of Africa. Experience the wit and wisdom of a man who entertained audiences all over the world.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Did you know The Adventures of Tom Sawyer was published during our country's centennial in 1876? It soon became an international bestseller and has been continuously in print ever since, more than 130 years. Mark Twain had this to say "...Although my book is intended mainly for the entertainment of boys and girls, I hope it will not be shunned by men and women on that account, for part of my plan has been to try to pleasantly remind adults of what they once were themselves, and what queer enterprises they sometimes engaged in." Enjoy scenes and characters from the book in this display.

From the Page to the Big Screen
Many film adaptations have been made from Mark Twain's stories. The library has more than 45 different versions in its collections. See some old favorites and discover some new ones.

Mysteries of McDougal's Cave
The cave in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is based on McDowell's cave located just south of Hannibal, MO: Twain's hometown. During Twain's youth, the cave was named for Doctor Joseph Nash McDowell, a physician who engaged in various "mysterious" activities. Sneak a peek inside this mysterious cave where Tom and Becky became lost during the picnic and make a daring escape.

City Center Entrance

The Man Behind Mark Twain
Mark Twain came in on Halley's comet, and left holding its tail. Get to know Samuel Clemens, the man behind the Mark Twain books. Explore his adventurous life, his world travels and timeless wit, along with his classic works.

South Wing Basement

Mark Twain: The Original Scrapbooker
Did you know Mark Twain was one of the first scrapbookers? He was a lifelong creator and keeper of scrapbooks, taking them with him everywhere he traveled. He even invented a self-pasting scrapbook in 1857 and by 1901 more than 57 different types were available. See some scrapbooks Tom Sawyer and his creator Mark Twain might have created.