Where The Past Becomes Present
At the History Museum on the Square, Quincy and Adams County’s rich history comes to life. Our permanent exhibits showcase the journey of the region’s earliest settlers and the evolution of the area.
With rotating exhibits, we’re constantly revealing new stories, rare artifacts, and unique perspectives that highlight Quincy's national impact and lesser-known aspects of our past.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, there’s always something new to explore!
The Museum Needs You
You can help write the next chapter of the Museum. We're embarking on an ambitious expansion that will make the Museum on the Square truly accessible to everyone - but we can't do it without you. Your support will help add an elevator, create a ground-level entrance, build new exhibit space, and more.
Join us in making history accessible for all. Every gift brings us closer to our $2 million goal.
Dive Into Our Exhibits
The History Museum on the Square’s collection showcases priceless artifacts that tell the stories of our most significant moments and legacies. Our permanent exhibits remain on display year-round, painting a diverse picture of Quincy and Adams County for our visitors.
Early Quincy
Explore the untamed wilderness of the bluffs. This fascinating collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts from Quincy’s earliest settlers tells of our humble beginnings and transformation. Meet pioneering figures like John Wood and Willard Keyes – and catch a glimpse into the spirit and resilience that built Quincy.
City of Refuge
During the bitter winter of 1838-39, Quincy welcomed Mormon refugees fleeing Missouri with open arms. Hear from those who lived through this harrowing time — and see the original keys to the Nauvoo Temple — in an interactive exhibit courtesy of The Ensign Peak Foundation.
Stained Glass Gallery
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Quincy’s most breathtaking hidden gem — the Stained Glass Gallery. Located on the second floor, the gallery is the intersection of art and history, featuring pieces designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Tiffany & Co. Studios, and more. This stunning kaleidoscope includes panels from several area churches and buildings.
Underground Railroad
The Underground Railroad Exhibit showcases Quincy's role in aiding escaped slaves. A detailed map highlights known local stops on this secret network, while a collection of documents and stories reveal local sentiment. It also includes a feature on our country's first African American priest, Father Augustus Tolton.
Window Onto The Square
Take a trip through time with a unique view of Washington Square. This interactive exhibit offers a visual history of the businesses, people, and events that shaped Quincy’s iconic downtown over the last 200 years.
Edward Everett Gallery
The Edward Everett Art Gallery showcases 11 original watercolors of the Mississippi River and Quincy – lost for nearly a century before their rediscovery. A soldier and draftsman, Everett’s work is reminiscent of the Hudson River School, capturing romanticized landscapes of steamboat scenes, the original Mormon Temple in Nauvoo, and the Alamo.
Special Feature Exhibit
Prohibition in Quincy: Advertising, Bootleggers, and Rebellion
Step into the Roaring Twenties with our latest exhibit, Prohibition in Quincy: Advertising, Bootleggers, and Rebellion. Bold advertising. Underground nightlife. Life in 1920s Quincy and Adams County was anything but quiet – if you knew where to look. This exhibit reveals the infamous “road houses” that fueled the party scene, along with the stories of Quincy’s most notorious women. Explore vintage memorabilia from local icons like Ruff Brewery and J.J. Flynn Bottling, plus rare artifacts from our own collection. Experience the rebellious spirit of the river town that came to be known as “Little Chicago”!
History For All Ages
The History Museum on the Square offers a variety of interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. We also offer tours to hundreds of local students each winter, covering the early days of Quincy and our role in the Underground Railroad.
Stroll Through Quincy’s Architectural Heritage
Relax in our outdoor Sculpture Garden, featuring a collection of architectural remnants from former Quincy landmarks. Made from wood, terra cotta, stone, and metal, each gorgeous piece tells the story of Quincy’s rich architectural history. The garden includes the John Wood Memorial Plaza, a tranquil patio area with engraved pavers and benches for gatherings, receptions, and luncheons.
While you're outside, also be sure to see the Brigadier General Henry Root Hill Memorial – a stone drinking fountain on the east side of the building commemorating the World War I soldier.
From Library To Museum
There's no better home for a history museum than a historic landmark. The History Museum on the Square, completed in 1888, is a cherished Quincy landmark. Designed by Patton and Fisher and built from Quincy limestone, the Richardsonian Romanesque building features rough-faced stone, deep-set windows, and a distinctive three-story corner tower with a conical roof. Inside, the library’s familiar charm remains with its original carved butternut woodwork, pocket doors, transoms, and second-floor mitered hardwood ceilings.
Originally the Quincy Free Public Library, the building was a central hub for the community for many generations. In 1977, this beloved structure became the Gardner Museum of Architecture and Design. HSQAC acquired the building in 2012. In 2015, it reopened as the History Museum on the Square – a space to preserve and tell the stories of Quincy and Adams County.
Plan Your Visit
The History Museum on the Square offers free admission to all. Tours are self-guided. Guided tours are available, but reservations are necessary. Please contact the HSQAC office at 217-214-1888 to schedule a time.
Museum Hours
Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm
Accessibility
An accessible addition reaching all floors is slated for construction in 2025. Limited access is currently available with advance notice. Please contact the HSQAC office at 217-214-1888 for additional accessibility information.
