Twain’s Life
Mark Twain, born Samuel Langhorn Clemens in 1835, is one of America’s most beloved authors. Raised in Missouri, Twain grew up during the country’s most defining period, the Civil War. His experiences from those days would later become integral to his works. His best known works, such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, remain classics of American literature today.
After rising to prominence as a journalist and writer, Twain wrote more than 30 books and over 100 short stories. Although he experienced great success as an author, Twain’s personal life was ridden with financial trouble. In the 1890s, he was declared bankrupt after bad investments. Despite these losses, Twain continued writing and exploring the world until his death.
Where Did Twain Die?
Mark Twain died in his home in Redding, Connecticut on April 21, 1910. He was 74 at the time of his death and had been living in Redding for two years. It is known that he was in poor health before his death, suffering from angina pectoris.
Friends and family of the famed author reported that Twain was in good spirits during his final days. He was visited by a group of writers and friends. They reported that Twain reminisced about the past and joked with them until his final breath.
His death was mourned universally, inside and outside of America. Many newspapers around the world printed obituaries and tributes that praised his work and contributions to literature.
Still today, his funeral remains one of the most well-attended of the 20th century.
Why Redding?
Twain moved to Redding, Connecticut in 1908 in order to take advantage of the area’s cleaner air and pleasant atmosphere. The move was prompted by the worsening health of Twain’s wife, Olivia Langdon Clemens. In Redding, Twain was able to enjoy the outdoors and relax.
In this peaceful location, Twain wrote his final works, Before Adam, published posthumously, and his memoirs. It was also in Redding where Twain wrote his autobiography, which he originally had requested to not be published until 100 years after his death.
Twain’s Grave
Twain is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in Elmira, New York, which is not too far from his childhood home. His wife and daughter, Jean, who passed away in 1909 and 1909, respectively, were later buried alongside him. The mausoleum in which Twain and his family are buried was designed by architect Henry Mercer.
The cemetery also draws in countless tourists who want to pay their respects to the author and visit his grave, believing it to be a place of inspiration. Tourists are also eager to see the memorial stone which was created by Buffalo sculptor Henry Kirke Bush-Brown.
Twain’s Legacy
Since his death, Twain’s legacy has lived on in many forms. His works are still widely read today, and many of his quotes are applied to almost any context. The Mark Twain House and Museum, his home in Hartford, Connecticut, built from 1871 to 1874, has become a tourist destination that honors the celebrated author.
In 2010, Google also celebrated Twain’s 75th death anniversary with a Doodle. Moreover, leading academics and journalists have praised Twain’s works, hailing him as one of the greatest writers in American history.
Twain’s Final Residence
Twain left it stipulated in his will that his Redding home, Symbol of Innocence, become a museum. Twain often invited family and friends to the home, which was carefully preserved after his death. The historic building has been maintained in its original state and is now open for public tours.
Visitors can explore the various rooms of the home, which have been stuffed with many of Twain’s memorabilia. This includes the author’s very own writing desk where he wrote his final works in 1910. Along with the building itself, Twain’s gardens and pond have also been recreated, giving visitors a chance to experience the home in its fullest glory.
The Impact of his Loss
At the time of Twain’s death, the world had lost one of its most influential and beloved authors. In addition to being a famous writer, Twain also used his work to criticize society, politics, and religion. His death was felt universally and inspired generations to become active innovators and changemakers.
Twain was a man who left behind a vast body of work. His writing has inspired countless readers and scholars alike, and his works will be remembered for generations to come. His death was a great loss for the literary world, but the impact of his life will be remembered for many years to come.
Legacy in Popular Culture
Twain’s work has survived him, and in fact it has been modernized in various ways. In addition to being lauded as one of the most beloved authors of all time, Twain’s work has also been adapted for modern media. His works have been adapted for television and film, most notably for the 1985 film, The Adventures of Mark Twain.
Twain’s legacy has also been used in popular culture. The name “mark twain” has been adopted by numerous organizations, including NASA and several schools. There are also multiple statues of Twain in the United States, including one in Hartford, Connecticut and another in his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri.
His Lasting Impact
Mark Twain’s life and work have left an indelible mark on the world. His life was filled with both struggles and successes, but his wit and charm enabled him to overcome every obstacle. His death was a great loss, but his works will remain as a testament of his lasting contributions.
Twain’s writing continues to be used in popular culture and his books will remain timeless. As a result, his influence will continue to live on, inspiring readers and aspiring authors in the future.
