1

The Real Huckleberry Finn

Image: Demure Storyteller

As mentioned earlier, Huckleberry Finn was, at least in part, based on a real person. Much of Mark Twain’s inspiration comes from his own life and experiences. Though Huckleberry Finn is a fictional character, his appearance, demeanor, and lifestyle closely mirror almost exactly Mr. Twain’s dear childhood friend, Tom Blankenship.

Huckleberry Finn first appeared in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer before becoming the central figure in his own story, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , a work widely regarded as a cornerstone of American literature.

2

Education

Image: Johnny Cohen

Mark Twain’s intellectual achievements might suggest he was a highly academically educated individual, but that was not the case. He had to leave school at a very early age to help support his family after his father’s death.

After he dropped out of school, Twain began working at the Hannibal Journal , where his writing career would find its start. Always the avid reader, he was known to spend hours each evening in the library, immersing himself in books.

3

Steamboat pilot

Image: Andreas Haubold

In 1857, Mark Twain began his career as an apprentice steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River . Soon after, he recruited his younger brother to work on the vessel as well, but tragedy struck one day as he died from an explosion on the steamboat. Despite this heartbreaking event, Twain continued his training and earned his pilot’s license in 1859, working as a pilot until the outbreak of the Civil War.

In June 1902, he paid his final visit to the Mississippi River when he accepted an honorary degree at the University of Missouri in Columbia and participated in the dedication of a steamboat named in his honor.

4

Pen Names

Image: Patrick Fore

It is a well-known fact that Mark Twain, though a great name indeed, was not our hero’s real birthname which was Samuel Langhorne Clemens . Choosing a memorable pen name can be a lengthy process, and many authors experiment with a few before settling on one.

Before adopting the now-famous "Mark Twain," Clemens tested out some unusual pseudonyms, including "Epaminondas Adrastus Blab" and "Thomas Jefferson Snodgrass."

5

Miner years

Image: Art Institute of Chicago

A man unafraid of trying new things, Mark Twain also worked as a miner in Nevada , where he and his brother fled, avoiding the Civil War. He later described the work as "hard and long and dismal."

His stint as a miner was short-lived, as he quickly landed his first writing job at The Territorial Enterprise newspaper in Virginia City. There he was tasked with covering crime, politics, culture, and, also, mining.

6

19 cats

Image: Paul Hanaoka

A hardcore cat enthusiast, Mr. Twain was so fond of these felines that he even "rented" them to keep him company while traveling . At one point in his life, he reportedly had 19 cats at the same time.

When asked about this obsession, Twain replied that he found cats much preferable to humans, even going as far as saying, "If man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat."

7

Board game inventor

Image: Jaciel Melnik

Perhaps learning about English monarchs was a fun activity in the times of Mark Twain but, in any case, it served as the inspiration for a board game he invented and patented , called Memory Builder.

Memory Builder wasn’t Twain’s only invention. He also designed a self-adhesive scrapbook that works like an envelope and created an improvement in adjustable and detachable straps for women’s bras.

8

Bed writer

Image: Annie Spratt

Some might think that working in bed all day would be extremely uncomfortable, especially due to posture. However, Mark Twain found it absolutely delightful, and it became his favorite place to work.

In his old age, Mark Twain was often photographed in his bed, smoking away a cigar or pipe while writing. Though he owned many houses throughout his life, he had only one favorite bed, which he kept with him until the end.

9

Bad businessman

Image: Vasilis Caravitis

Being a great author doesn’t guarantee being successful in other things as well. Despite dabbling in many business investments, Twain’s financial endeavors were largely unsuccessful. He lost money in mining and technology ventures and even went bankrupt.

However, he always managed to make a comeback with his writing and his lectures, proving that his known talents were generous and reliable.

10

Predicted his own death

Image: Frank Zinsli

In 1909, Mark Twain predicted that he would die when Halley’s Comet returned . This was because the last time the comet passed near Earth was the year of his birth. Unfortunately, he was right, and he passed away in 1910.

Twain's family was by his side when he died, and he was buried in Elmira, New York. The exact cause of his death remains a mystery to this day.

1

Massachusetts - Apple pie with a twist

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Apple pie is the nation’s pie—it’s the classic dessert served on the 4th of July, so it doesn’t belong to any particular state. However, Massachusetts thought the classic recipe could do with a twist and they went all the way: Apple pie with a cheddar crust .

This may sound unusual, but it’s actually quite a popular recipe in the Bay State. Some choose to fill the pie with the cheese, while others prefer to lay some slices on top and bake it until a crust forms. In any case, this one is only for those who keep their minds and palates open to new experiences. Are you one of them?

2

Kentucky - Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

In Kentucky, bourbon flows as freely as hospitality, and it’s no surprise that the state’s beloved Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie is a crowd favorite—especially on Derby Day. This dessert combines crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate, and a splash of Kentucky bourbon for a sweet, boozy finish.

Now, here’s the thing with this one: You can’t call it a Derby Pie unless you are Kern’s Kitchen. Why not? Because they own the trademark. But that didn’t stop the locals—they came up with creative alternatives like "Not Derby Pie" or "Derby Dessert."

To make it yourself, try mixing a bit of melted butter with your chocolate for an extra velvety texture. Just don’t forget to sip a little bourbon on the side while you’re baking—it’s only fitting!

3

New Jersey - Green tomato pie

Image: Sophie Dale

New Jersey’s Green Tomato Pie might sound odd to some, but locals know it’s a delicious treat . Made from either ripe green tomatoes (which often have lovely stripes) or unripe red ones, this pie has a flavor that is surprisingly similar to apples. The tomatoes soften as they cook, and they blend beautifully with the cinnamon and the sugar. The result? A refreshing, unique filling.

If you’re giving it a go at home, make sure to use the ripest green tomatoes you can find—they add a more vibrant flavor to each bite.

4

Pennsylvania - Shoofly pie

Image: Kenneth Schipper

Pennsylvania’s Shoofly Pie is one of those old-time desserts that never goes out of style. Based on molasses, the pie comes in two styles: a dry-bottom version that’s more like a cake, or a wet-bottom version with a gooey custard layer.

But what about the name? Traditionally, it’s believed that the name came from the flies that bakers had to "shoo" away while the pie cooled. However, some say it's named after Shoofly the Boxing Mule, a celebrity from the 19th century.

Either way, this pie is a taste of Pennsylvania's Dutch heritage. If you’re up for a baking challenge, aim for the wet-bottom style—its sticky, rich filling is worth the extra effort. Just be ready to shoo some flies away!

5

Georgia - Peanut pie

Image: Isaac Quesada

Were you expecting to see a peach-based pie in this section? Not today, sir! Though Georgia is often called the Peach State, its real star crop is peanuts. Thousands of peanut farmers call Georgia home, including one very famous name. Do you know it? Jimmy Carter, the peanut-farming president!

Peanut Pie might not be as well-known as peanut butter, but it’s just as flavorful and rich. This Southern staple blends sweet, salty, and nutty goodness in every bite. Serve it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

Now, in case you were wondering, Carter wasn’t the only one: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of peanuts! With a history like that, you know this pie is something worth trying.

6

Vermont - Maple pie

Image: Mary West

This one lives up to our expectations: Vermont’s connection with maple syrup is legendary, and Maple Pie is the sweet—and logical—result. As the nation’s leader in maple syrup production, Vermont has turned this delicious treat into a delicious pie.

In the 1860s, maple sugar was cheaper than cane sugar , making it the go-to sweetener, and today, it still holds that place of honor. Maple Pie is rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet… So, Vermont in a nutshell.

Are you giving this pie a go? Use a deep-flavored maple for an intense result!

7

Alaska - Blueberry Rhubarb pie

Image: Erol Ahmed

We may all know Alaska for its rugged wilderness, but it’s also home to some fantastic pie ingredients, like blueberries and rhubarb. These two grow in abundance, especially thanks to Alaska’s long summer days. And did you know? Back in the early 1900s, Henry Clark, who was nicknamed "The Rhubarb King," helped feed Gold Rush workers with fresh rhubarb.

You can use any kind of berry in this pie, but wild Alaskan blueberries are especially tasty! Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’ve got a true Alaskan treat. It’s tart, sweet, and perfect for any adventure. Just be sure to gather your berries before the bears do!

8

Colorado - Rocky road pie

Image: Dagmara Dombrovska

When you think of Colorado, the mighty Rocky Mountains are the first thing to come to mind, right? What better way to honor them than with a Rocky Road Pie? Done and done, thanks to the locals.

This pie brings together chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, just like the famous ice cream flavor. Now, here is a fun fact: legend says the original Rocky Road ice cream was made by cutting marshmallows with sewing scissors!

We can’t really confirm whether that’s true or not, but you can’t deny the charm of the story. The pie version is just as rich and satisfying, with layers of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. If you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy, this one’s for you.

9

Maryland - White potato pie

Image: Josephine Amalie Paysen

Most people think of sweet potatoes when they hear "potato pie," and that makes sense, but in Maryland, it’s all about the white potato .

This pie has been a local favorite for over 150 years, and early recipes date back to nothing less than the 1850s! Baked in a buttery crust, this pie is sweet and custard-like, with just a hint of cinnamon. It’s a bit like pumpkin pie’s lighter cousin.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday go-to! Marylanders have been enjoying it for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Serve warm or cold—it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

10

Ohio - Buckeye pie

Image: Tanya Semenchuk

And we come to the end with Ohio’s signature pie: Buckeye pie take center stage , please! This delicious pie, along with its name, is inspired by the famous buckeye candy that mimics the state tree’s nut.

Though the real buckeye nut is toxic, you can eat this version without any worries. The pie is pure indulgence, layered with chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate is hard to resist, and it looks just as good as it tastes. Simply mouthwatering!

1

Virginia (1607)

Before being an established colony, the entirety of England’s territories in North America was referred to as Virginia. While it is commonly accepted that Sir Walter Raleigh named it after Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen , some historians have suggested that it is the European rendering of Wingina , the name of that region’s native ruler.

The first two English settlements (in modern-day Newfoundland and North Carolina) were not successful. The third one, Jamestown, was settled by the Virginia Company as a charter (a sovereign’s permission to establish a colony). Eventually returned to the crown’s authority, it was officially known as the Virginia Colony. After the English Civil War, Charles II conferred on it the title of "Old Dominion" as a token of gratitude, a name that survives as the state’s current nickname.

2

Massachusetts (1620)

Also established by charter, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was not only created for trading purposes, like other settlements. It was also intended as a safe haven for English Puritans who desired to escape persecution . Its charter and name changed several times due to the Civil War and political unrest. Eventually, several colonies were merged into the Dominion of New England and later into the Province of Massachusetts Bay.

The name Massachusetts was taken from the indigenous population of the region, an Algonquian tribe called the Massachusett or Muhsachuweesut . It is believed that the name means ‘by the great hills’ or ' at the range of hills’, in reference to the Blue Hills.

3

New Hampshire (1623)

The first settlements in New Hampshire were the result of land being granted to John Mason and Sir Ferdinando Gorges , neither of whom ever traveled to the region. Additional settlements in the area were established by colonists from Massachusetts Bay, who were unhappy with the strict Puritan rule of the colony.

Although John Mason had been born in Norfolk, he had ties to Hampshire County in South East England, after whom he decided to name his newly granted land . After Mason’s death, the region lacked a proper authority, and the settlers voted to be part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. After the Civil War, the Province of New Hampshire was established by Charles II.

4

Maryland (1634)

A similar situation to the Massachusetts colony, Maryland was also established as a refuge from religious persecution, this time for Roman Catholics . With this purpose in mind, George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, secured a land grant from Charles I. Despite several religious conflicts, Maryland remained one of the most tolerant colonies.

Maryland was named after Charles I’s wife, Henrietta Maria , who was a devout Catholic. Lord Baltimore had initially intended to use the name Crescentia (or ‘the land of growth’), but he decided to let the King choose the name. Charles named it Terra Mariae (Maria’s land), although the English version quickly became more widely used.

5

Connecticut (1636)

The first settlements in the area were established by Dutch explorers, but English settlers soon arrived from the Plymouth colony in Massachusetts. The colony took its name from the Connecticut River , a corrupted form of the native words quinetucket and kwinitekw , meaning ‘beside the long, tidal river’.

Connecticut's current nickname, ‘the Constitution State’, is a reference to the Colony’s constitution, the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut , one of the earliest constitutions in modern history.

6

Rhode Island (1636)

Founded by a Puritan minister who had been expelled from the Massachusetts Colony, Rhode Island was initially named Providence Plantations . Committed to ensuring religious freedom, it became a refuge for religious dissenters who found it difficult to live in the strict Puritan colonies. Later on, it merged with several other settlements —among them, Aquidneck Island, also known as Rhode Island— and took the name of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

It’s uncertain where the name Rhode Island came from, but the two most likely theories cite either a connection with the Greek island of Rhodes or the Dutch phrase "een rodlich eylande" (‘a reddish island’) . All three names (Rhode Island, Island of Rhodes, and Red Island) are used in 17th-century documents.

7

North and South Carolina (1663)

Before there was a North and a South Carolina, there was just Carolina . The land of both colonies had been granted to various nobles as a reward for their role in the restoration of the monarchy. The charter granting the lands —which included areas from present-day North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida— named them Carolina (from the Latin Carolus ) after King Charles I .

The area covered by the province of Carolina was divided into two distinct parts, and communication and transportation between the two proved difficult. A deputy governor for the northern region was initially appointed, but the noble proprietors eventually decided to divide the province into two , North Carolina and South Carolina.

8

New York (1664)

It is a widely known fact that modern-day New York was initially colonized by Dutch settlers under the name ‘New Netherland’, with ‘New Amsterdam’ as its capital city . In 1664, King Charles II and his brother, the Duke of York, gathered a fleet to seize the New Netherland territories, a conquest disputed by the Dutch West India Company, the colony administrator.

The Duke of York was made proprietor of the territory, now renamed ‘New York’. In the following decade, the ownership of the territory was disputed, and the Dutch made several attempts to recover it. Eventually, the Treaty of Westminster was signed in 1674, where the Dutch forfeited the New York territories in exchange for the Suriname colony in South America.

9

Delaware (1664)

The territory of Delaware was originally part of New Netherland, which made it part of the New York Province after British conquest, but it was never effectively controlled by the New York government. These counties had taken their name from the neighboring Delaware River , which in turn had been named after Thomas West, 3rd Baron De La Warr, governor of Virginia at the time the English gained control of that territory.

While they were never a colony of their own, the Delaware counties had an independent legislature and functioned as a de facto colony. Later included in the land granted to William Penn, they refused to merge with the Pennsylvania government and were eventually granted their own assembly. At the start of the Revolutionary War, the Delaware assembly voted for separation from Britain, thus creating the state of Delaware.

10

New Jersey (1665)

Originally part of the New Netherland territory, half of the New Jersey territory was conferred by the Duke of York to Sir George Carteret as a reward, while the other half was sold to Lord Berkeley of Stratton. The territory was named after Carteret’s homeland, the island of Jersey .

A few years later, New Jersey was divided into two provinces, East and West Jersey , with their respective governors and constitutions, which were eventually incorporated into the New England Dominion, alongside the province of New York. However, the Dominion was dissolved after a few years, and the East and West Jersey territories were unified as the Province of New Jersey.

11

Pennsylvania (1681)

Pennsylvania, alongside Carolina, is one of the two major Restoration colonies, chartered by Charles II to reward loyal subjects after the war. In this case, it was conferred on William Penn, an influential Quaker thinker, to settle a debt owed to his father. Penn and his associates had already purchased most of the New Jersey territory to establish a Quaker haven, but religious tensions in England made him propose a mass emigration of Quakers to the King.

The king conferred Penn a large territory —which made him the largest private non-royal landowner— with almost absolute rights. While Penn intended to name the colony either ‘New Wales’ or ‘Sylvania’ (Latin for ‘forests’), the king named it Pennsylvania after Penn’s father . Penn personally travelled to the territory to establish the first settlements, signed treaties with the Lenape tribes of the area, and established a proto-constitution which guaranteed freedom of religion, elections, and trials by jury.

12

Georgia (1732)

The last colony to be established, Georgia was chartered to James Oglethorpe by King George II, after whom it was named . A social reformer, Oglethorpe, wanted to establish the territory as a haven for debtors and poor people, and implemented measures such as the banning of alcohol and slavery. He also disliked the large plantation system, favoring smallholdings.

The colony was also intended to be a ‘buffer’ between the British colonies and the Spanish territories in Florida. Despite Oglethorpe’s well-intentioned designs, the colony was difficult to manage, and it was returned to the crown two decades later. Upon becoming a royal colony, Oglethorpe’s measures against slavery and the plantation system were overturned.