Adams Academy, established in 1872 and operational until 1908, boasted its peak enrollment of 140 students in the academic year of 1876–77. Situated on land bequeathed to Quincy by its illustrious resident, John Adams, the second President of the United States, the academy carried forward a rich legacy. Remarkably, the site also holds historical significance as the birthplace of another Founding Father, John Hancock, born there in January 1736.

Modeled after esteemed educational institutions like Phillips Academy and Phillips Exeter Academy, Adams Academy placed a significant emphasis on classical education, preparing its students for admission to prestigious universities such as Harvard. However, as the twentieth century dawned, advancements in public education and increased competition from other private academies posed challenges to Adams Academy’s continued operation. Ultimately, dwindling enrollment led to its closure in 1908.

In the wake of the academy’s closure, the Adams Temple and School Fund endeavored to repurpose the building in alignment with John Adams’ original vision. Over the years, it served as a hub for various civic organizations, including the Boy Scouts, American Legion, and the Red Cross. Notably, during the 1950s and ’60s, it housed the local military draft board. Though initially proposed in 1934, it wasn’t until 1972 that the Quincy Historical Society took over the building, now serving as its tenant. The Society has transformed the space into a museum and library, activities deemed consistent with the intentions of John Adams by the Fund trustees, who count among them descendants of the Adams family.

In recognition of its historical significance, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994. Today, Adams Academy’s legacy lives on as a testament to Quincy’s rich history and its enduring ties to America’s founding fathers.