Home of Becky Thatcher in Danger

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri is working hard to save the Becky Thatcher House, home to Laura Hawkins, inspiration for Tom Sawyer's famous girlfriend.

According to a story from the AP this morning, the house is in serious need of repairs, but the Mark Twain Home Foundation is also in serious need of cash. Visits to the museum this summer have been down 30 percent.

Right now, the foundation is looking for $250,000 to fix sagging rafters, foundation and floor problems, and termite damage. From there, they are planning a new $350,000 exhibit on childhood experiences during the 19th century, but the Becky Thatcher House can't remain open at all if the repairs are not made.

The Becky Thatcher House is directly across the street from the house Mark Twain grew up in, which explains how young Laura Hawkins inspired the character. On August 9, an auction will be held there to help raise money.

All those interested in helping may got to www.marktwainmuseum.org.