02/02/2009

Associated Press

Herb Parham was so closely associated with the Mark Twain Home Foundation in Hannibal that he was known by some as "Mr. Museum."

Parham died of congestive heart failure Saturday at his home in New London, near Hannibal, the foundation said. He was 92.

Parham was a civic leader who served on the board of directors for the foundation from 1985 to 2006. He was president from 1989 to 2006.

Often, Parham would spend his own money on projects for the popular museum properties in Hannibal's historic district.

In fact, it was Parham who purchased a large downtown building and donated it for use as the Museum Gallery.

Among survivors are his wife of 67 years, Jane, a daughter and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son.

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Information from: Hannibal Courier-Post, http://www.hannibal.net