Historical Society of Quincy & Adams County

The Historical Society of Quincy & Adams County is a nonprofit organization based in Illinois, committed to preserving and educating the public about the history of Quincy, Adams County, and the surrounding areas.

Founding and Mission

Originally founded in 1896 as the Historical Society of Quincy, the organization expanded its scope in 1922 to include Adams County. Its mission is to gather, preserve, and make accessible the historical records and artifacts related to this region. The Society aims to provide educational resources and programs that enhance the understanding of local history for its members and the broader community.

Collections and Properties

The Society manages a physical collection of over 20,000 items, including documents, photographs, books, and other historical artifacts. A significant part of its collection is housed in prominent historical buildings:

• Governor John Wood Mansion: Constructed in 1835 with Greek Revival architecture, this mansion serves as a museum and showcases life in the mid-1800s through period furnishings. It was acquired by the Historical Society in 1907.
• 1835 Log Cabin: Moved to the Mansion grounds in 2002, it is used primarily for educational programs for third-grade students.

Educational Programs

The Historical Society offers a range of educational programs tailored to different age groups:

• Log Cabin Program: Aimed at third-grade students to explore early American life.
• Governor John Wood Mansion Tours: Available for all age groups.
• Quincy at the Time of the Civil War: Designed for fifth-grade students.
• Quincy in the Lincoln Era: Crafted for seventh-grade students.

Community Engagement and Events

The Society participates in various community events, including the Bicentennial Speaker Series, which features presentations on diverse historical topics. It also collaborates with local institutions to produce historical content, such as the "History Minutes" series.

Support and Partnerships

The Historical Society works with local organizations to support its mission, including partnerships with educational institutions like John Wood Community College. It also receives support through a community foundation fund dedicated to preserving local historical structures and resources.