Background

Old Baptist Cemetery: A Glimpse into Hannibal's Past

Explore Hannibal's oldest cemetery, a historic burial ground with ties to Mark Twain and the tales of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

4.8

Established in 1837, the Old Baptist Cemetery in Hannibal, Missouri, is the city's oldest burial ground. Though no longer in use, it offers a poignant look into the lives of Hannibal's early residents, including Civil War soldiers, slaves, and prominent citizens. Its weathered tombstones and overgrown landscape evoke a sense of history and mystery, with connections to Mark Twain's famous works.

A brief summary to Old Baptist Cemetery

  • Hannibal, Missouri, 63401, US

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and some areas may be overgrown.
  • Consider visiting during daylight hours to better appreciate the details of the tombstones and surroundings.
  • Be respectful of the site and its history; avoid disturbing the tombstones or surrounding vegetation.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, head north on Main Street. Turn left onto North Street, then right onto 3rd Street. Continue onto Section Street. The Old Baptist Cemetery will be on your left, atop a small hill. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. There are no entrance fees.

  • Public Transport

    OATS Transit provides public transportation in Hannibal. Call to schedule a ride to the cemetery from within Hannibal; fares are $2.00 for in-town riders. Reservations are required, so call in advance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Hannibal. A ride from downtown Hannibal to the Old Baptist Cemetery will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and surge pricing. Confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

Unlock the Best of Old Baptist Cemetery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Old Baptist Cemetery

The Old Baptist Cemetery, situated on a hilltop at Section and Sumner Streets, holds the stories of Hannibal's earliest settlers. Founded in 1837, the cemetery served as the primary burial ground for the growing town, with its first official platting in 1844. Over time, the cemetery fell into disuse, and many of its records were lost. Today, the Old Baptist Cemetery presents a captivating, if somewhat melancholic, scene. Many tombstones are broken or toppled, and some graves remain unmarked. Overgrowth and weathering have taken their toll, adding to the air of mystery. Despite the disrepair, the cemetery holds significant historical value. Civil War soldiers and slaves are buried here, along with some of Hannibal's most prominent citizens. Agness Flautleroy, a slave of Sophia Hawkins (the mother of Laura Hawkins, who inspired the character of Becky Thatcher in *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer*), is among those interred. Adding to the cemetery's allure, local legend suggests that it inspired the graveyard scene in *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer*, where Tom and Huckleberry Finn witness a murder. While Mark Twain never confirmed this connection, the cemetery's atmosphere certainly aligns with the imagery in his novel. Visitors can explore the grounds and reflect on the lives of those who shaped Hannibal's early history. Some visitors have reported paranormal experiences, including strange mists and cold spots. For those interested in a guided experience, Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tours offers tours of the cemetery.

Popular Experiences near Old Baptist Cemetery

Popular Hotels near Old Baptist Cemetery

Select Currency