How much do you know about ‘The Unsinkable Molly Brown’?

Margaret Tobin “Molly” Brown was born and raised in Hannibal, and you will soon be able to visit the home where she spent her childhood before going on to make history. It has been relocated to 400 N. Main Street, in Historic Downtown Hannibal.

But how much do you know about her, besides her heroic actions that saved several lives during the sinking of the ill-fated HMS Titanic?

Brown grew up in a simple cottage in what was once a thriving village filled with Irish immigrants.  She knew the value of hard work and retained a deep love and compassion for her family throughout her life. After finishing her education at age 13, Brown went to work in the Garth Tobacco Company in Hannibal.

According to family lore, Brown’s father, John Tobin, was a steadfast abolitionist – he was determined to end slavery and always treated people equally.  His daughter learned her lifelong values of helping others during her childhood years.

Brown was determined to be successful, and pursued her dreams by moving west to Leadville, Colorado in her late teens.  She married James Joseph Brown, whose purchase of a mining company lead to the Browns striking it rich in ores.

In 1894, J.J. and Molly Brown moved to Denver, settling down in an extravagant home. Today, it serves as a museum to Molly Brown’s life.  She is revered to this day for her selfless philanthropy, heroism, and activism.

Brown is perhaps best known for saving many lives through her quick thinking, leadership skills, and heroic response when the Titanic sank in 1912.

Molly Brown was far from done helping others.  She established the Survivor’s Committee following the sinking of the Titanic and was instrumental in the creation of the Titanic Memorial.  She was also a tireless advocate for women’s rights and was the first woman to run for the U.S. State Senate in 1914. 

She also worked hard to help those affected by the devastation of World War I, setting up a relief station for soldiers.  Brown was subsequently awarded the French Legion of Honor for her valor.

Come and see why Molly Brown’s story is remarkable, and it all started right here in Hannibal!