Discover History

Welcome to the Historical Society of Quincy & Adams County, where we keep local history alive.

Connect With Your History

Interested in John Wood and our early settlers? Fascinated by the area's ties to President Abraham Lincoln? Wanting to research your genealogy?
 
The Historical Society of Quincy & Adams County (HSQAC) is here to help you. We're a treasure trove of documents and artifacts that tell the stories of the people, places, and businesses that flourished here over the past 200 years. Our iconic sites are open to visitors year-round, giving everyone the chance to experience and enjoy our shared history.
 
And we don't stop there. Educational programs, exhibits, guided tours, memberships — it is our mission to connect every single person to the stories of the past. What will you uncover?

Upcoming Programs & Events

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Join Your Historical Society

Be part of one of the region's oldest historical organizations. Your membership supports the Governor John Wood Mansion, History Museum on the Square, and our programming for history lovers of all ages. 

Plus, enjoy free admission to over 200 partner museums nationwide, members-only access, and our award-winning quarterly magazine. Join a community of curious minds dedicated to discovering, sharing, and celebrating Quincy's remarkable past.

Lend Us A Helping Hand

From leading mansion tours to tending historic gardens, our volunteers bring Quincy's past to life.

Whether you have a few hours or want to dive deeper, we'll match your interests with meaningful opportunities. Join fellow history enthusiasts in preserving our irreplaceable collections, maintaining our landmarks, or sharing information about significant historical moments with visitors of all ages — all while making new connections in your community.

Every helping hand shapes what we can accomplish.

A man presenting a video on a school tour

Take Home A Piece Of History

Browse local history-inspired merchandise online, from cozy Gem City hoodies to vintage Quincy prints. Visit our History Museum on the Square to explore an even wider selection of books, collectibles, and one-of-a-kind items celebrating Quincy's distinctive charm.

Latest News

John Batschy: A Quincy Architect

When John Batschy died, the Aug. 29, 1922 Quincy Daily Herald reported his death calling him “… a Quincy architect, scientific builder, prominent citizen, church man and thirty-third degree Mason……

Artifacts Four of the Lincoln Conspirators

Wrist irons worn by George Azerodt, a hood worn by Lewis Powell, the key to Mary Suratt’s cell and keys to the Capitol Prison are displayed in the Lincoln Gallery…

William S. Gray—The Man Who Taught Millions To Read

In the book, the golden-haired little girl beckons her brother’s attention. “Look, look.” The boy is watering deep green grass. The girl is splashing through a puddle, wearing her mother’s…

Quincy’s Boat Clubs Were Rowing Powerhouses

The South Side Boat Club’s Senior 4 Oared Crew competed in the International Regatta at Liege, Belgium, in 1930. Crew members, left to right, were Chester Holtman, George Meyer Jr.,…

Inspire Your Students

Bring Quincy's past into your classroom with our educational programs. Schedule field trips to the John Wood Mansion or History Museum on the Square where students experience frontier life and local connections to pivotal American moments. Use our free Civil War video series in your classroom, which includes ready-to-use lesson guides. Work with our team to create a customized experience that complements your specific curriculum.

Teaching history is our passion. See how HSQAC can help support your classroom.

A woman speaking to a group of students in a museum

Uncover Your Own Story

From tracking your family's Quincy roots to researching your historic home's past, our archives hold many helpful clues.

The HSQAC research library offers access to rare documents, maps, photographs, and genealogical records spanning two centuries. Whether you're curious about a bygone business, an old neighborhood, or your Adams County ancestors, start your discovery here.

Visit Us in Quincy, IL

John Wood Mansion

Step into the magnificent Greek Revival home of Quincy's founder, where original furnishings and architecture transport you to the early days of Adams County.

History Museum on the Square

Discover rotating exhibits, fascinating artifacts, and interactive displays in our downtown museum, housed in an 1888 building on the Square.

The Lincoln Gallery

Experience Abraham Lincoln's lasting connections to Quincy through rare artifacts, compelling documents, and the stories of his local friendships.