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Tom Sawyer's Fence.

Tom Sawyer's Fence

Field review by the editors.

Hannibal, Missouri

Tom Sawyer's fence stands freshly whitewashed in downtown Hannibal. It's part of the town's small Mark Twain Zone, recreated to resemble the 19th century Hannibal used by Twain as a backdrop for his book Tom Sawyer (the character Becky Thatcher's house is across the street, and statue of Tom and Huckleberry Finn is just down the block).

The fence was a work of fiction, but one just like it has been erected at the spot described in the book, and a historical marker has been added for credibility.

In the story, Tom tricks his neighbors and friends into doing his drudge job of whitewashing the fence. It was considered absurd and funny at the time -- convincing someone to eagerly work for free, or even pay for the privilege -- but maybe not so much any more.

Also see: Hannibal: Twain Town

Tom Sawyer's Fence

Address:
Hill St., Hannibal, MO
Directions:
Downtown, on the north side of Hill St. (which is now a pedestrian mall), between US Hwy 36 and N. Main St. Behind the Mark Twain Dinette.
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Nearby Offbeat Places

Mark Twain Boyhood HomeMark Twain Boyhood Home, Hannibal, MO - < 1 mi.
Large Mug of Root BeerLarge Mug of Root Beer, Hannibal, MO - < 1 mi.
Tom and Huck StatueTom and Huck Statue, Hannibal, MO - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Mark Twain Museum, Hannibal, MO - < 1 mi.

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