For the history buff, Robard's Mansion Bed and Breakfast is to a must-see on a visit to Hannibal.

Constructed in 1871, it was the scene of many social events of Hannibal society.

Sadness fell on the house, however, in 1902 as Robards' twelve-year-old granddaughter lay ill with an incurable disease. She had read many of Mark Twain's writings and asked her grandfather to arrange for her to meet him in person.

She had read many of Mark Twain's writings and requested that her grandfather arrange for her to meet him in person.

Mark Twain made his last visit to Hannibal in 1902 and visited the girl in her bedroom the same night he addressed 300 people at the Rockcliffe Mansion.

Shortly after he left Hannibal, the girl died and Mark Twain wrote a note of condolence to John Robards.

During World War ll Hannibal was a busy manufacturing town and places to live were at a premium.

The house was no longer in the Robards family and it was turned into numerous apartments and sleeping rooms.

By the early 70's the house was in state of deterioration but still structurally very sound. The owners were able to get it placed on the National Historic Register.

It existed as an apartment building until Leon and Nedra purchased it in 1996 and moved into it in 1998. They began extensive renovation to make it a Bed and Breakfast.

Robard's Mansion Bed and Breakfast now has central heat and air conditioning, refinished walls, ceiling, and floors, and lace curtain covered windows. The work continues on to preserve this important part of Hannibal history.

Disclaimer: The Gilded Age Bed and Breakfast is not owned, affiliated or operated by Gilded Age Renovation, L.L.C.