Hannibal

Hannibal sits on the west bank of the Mississippi and spans parts of two counties in northeastern Missouri. The town today has around 17,000 residents and preserves numerous 19th-century buildings along its main streets.

Moses Bates founded the settlement in 1819 as a river trading post. The arrival of railroad lines in the mid-19th century transformed it into an important transportation hub between St. Louis and points north.

The town has maintained a close connection to the stories of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn for over a century. Visitors can walk through streets described in Samuel Clemens' novels and experience the atmosphere of a 19th-century river settlement.

The downtown area is walkable, with most points of interest within easy reach of the riverfront. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures ideal for strolling through the old streets and along the Mississippi shore.

A lighthouse stands far from any sea on a hill above town, recalling the era when river traffic dominated commerce. Presidents have ceremonially lit it on special occasions, though it never served actual navigation.

Location: Marion County

Location: Ralls County

Inception: 1819

Elevation above the sea: 153 m

Website: http://hannibal-mo.gov

GPS coordinates: 39.70417,-91.37750

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:04