Short Summary
Hi, my name is Susan Bailey and I have been looking for my biological mother most of my life. I was very surprised when I found that she was the granddaughter of Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain.) I have over 50 DNA connections to Samuel Clemens and, according to genealogists, that is about 90% proof. I have co- authored a book, The Twain Shall Meet, about my search to find my mother, Nina Clemens Gabrilowitsch. The reception from The Mark Twain House & Museum and serious Twain scholars has been very positive. However they want that additional 10% proof for complete acceptance of my story. It is so important to me to give them this 100% proof as it has been thought that Mark Twain's bloodline died out with Nina's death in 1966. Not much is known about his granddaughter, but she was an intelligent, fascinating woman and I want the world to know about her through my book. With this additional DNA proof that will be processed through Mitotyping Technologies using envelopes and stamps from Mark Twain's daughter, Clara Clemens Gabrilowitsch, I will have the 100% proof I need.
What We Need & What You Get
The charge for this kind of DNA testing at Mitotyping Technologies (who do DNA for the Smithsonian) is $2500 per test. I have been offered three envelopes and stamps that came from Mark Twain's daughter, Clara, from the largest Twain collector in the country. The total cost will be $7500. I already have $2500 from a generous contributor and need an additional $5000 to complete the testing. I have waited a lifetime to find out who my mother was and this additional DNA testing will not only enable me to be 100% certain but will prove it to the world and provide my children with the legacy they have always been missing. If I do not realize the entire amount through this effort, I will donate the funds to The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, Connecticut.
The Impact
Mark Twain was one of America's foremost literary geniuses. It was thought that his bloodline died with his only grandchild when she died in 1966. For Twainiacs that is a sad thought. I believe the world would like to know that she left a child behind and that now she has grandchildren and even great grandchildren who are all good and intelligent human beings who have accomplished a lot.
Risks & Challenges
It is possible that no DNA will be able to be extracted from the envelopes and stamps. In that case I won't be able to get the additional proof I need and will have to be content with the 90% that I already have. But I feel I have to try!
Other Ways You Can Help
If you can contribute, even a small amount, I am so grateful to you. I understand that some people can't contribute, but if you could share this with your friends I would so appreciate that too. Please use the Indiegogo share tools!