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Rockcliffe Mansion: A Gilded Age Masterpiece

Step back in time at Rockcliffe Mansion, a Gilded Age masterpiece with stunning views, historic tours, and luxurious B&B accommodations.

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Perched atop a limestone cliff overlooking the Mississippi River in Hannibal, Missouri, Rockcliffe Mansion is a stunning example of Gilded Age opulence. Built in the late 1890s by lumber baron John J. Cruikshank Jr., this 13,500-square-foot mansion boasts exquisite craftsmanship, original furnishings, and a rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of luxury and elegance.

A brief summary to Rockcliffe Mansion

Local tips

  • Guided tours are available daily from April 15th to November 15th, with the last tour starting at 4 p.m.
  • Consider booking a stay at the bed and breakfast for an immersive experience and complimentary mansion tour.
  • Check the Rockcliffe Mansion website for current rates, discounts, and special events.
  • Rockcliffe is not wheelchair accessible.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Hannibal and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Rockcliffe Mansion is a moderately uphill walk of approximately 1 mile. Head west on Hill Street, then turn left onto N 10th St. Continue onto Bird St, the Mansion will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    OATS Transit provides public transportation in Hannibal and Marion County. Call 660-415-0901 or 800-654-6287 to schedule a ride. Reservations are required. One-way fare within Hannibal is $2.00.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Taxi and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are available in Hannibal. A ride from downtown Hannibal to Rockcliffe Mansion will take about 5-10 minutes and cost approximately $5-$15.

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Discover more about Rockcliffe Mansion

Rockcliffe Mansion, an imposing landmark in Hannibal, Missouri, stands as a testament to the wealth and grandeur of the Gilded Age. Constructed between 1898 and 1900 for lumber baron John J. Cruikshank Jr., the mansion occupies a commanding position atop a limestone bluff, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. Designed by the architectural firm of Barnett, Haynes & Barnett, Rockcliffe is a stunning example of Colonial Revival and Georgian architectural styles. The mansion's exterior features a monumental double-height portico with Corinthian columns, while the interior is lavishly decorated with exotic woods, South African pink marble, and Tiffany glass. The 13,500-square-foot mansion boasts over 30 rooms, including 10 ornate bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, showcasing the finest materials and craftsmanship of the era. Rockcliffe Mansion remained vacant for 43 years after Cruikshank's death in 1924. Saved from demolition in 1967, the mansion has since been restored and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, visitors can explore the mansion's grand interiors on guided tours, admiring the original furnishings, hand-carved woodwork, and L.C. Tiffany lighting fixtures. Rockcliffe also operates as a boutique bed and breakfast, offering guests the chance to spend the night in one of its historically decorated rooms. Mark Twain himself visited Rockcliffe Mansion in 1902 and addressed Hannibal society from the grand staircase.

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