Explore This Founding Father’s Historic Homes in Quincy, Massachusetts
Living in New England, there's no shortage of historic places to explore. Regardless of whether you'd classify yourself as a history fan or not, there's something fascinating about walking in the footsteps of those who came before us by exploring old homes, battlefields, graveyards, and more.
Visitors to Quincy, Massachusetts, are particularly lucky, as their town was once the home of not one, but two US presidents: Founding Father John Adams (1735-1826), and his eldest son John Quincy Adams (1767-1848).
You can walk in the shoes of John Adams and his family thanks to a fascinating collection of tours run by the Adams National Historic Park during the warmer months. This writer went on a Full Park Guided Tour a couple months ago, and cannot recommend it enough.
So, what can you expect on such a tour?
1. John Adams and John Quincy Adams Birthplaces
Your first stop will be at the John and John Quincy Adams Birthplaces. The first home (shown below) is where John Adams was born and raised, according to the Historic Park's website.
The second home (also shown below) sits feet from the first and is where John settled down with his wife, Abigail. The site explains that within the home's walls, John drafted the Massachusetts Constitution during the American Revolution, and future 6th president John Quincy Adams was born.
2. The Old House at Peace Field
Soon before being elected vice president of the United States in 1789 (he'd eventually become our 2nd president in 1797), John would move with Abigail into this gorgeous house at Peace Field. Unlike the two previous homes, everything inside this place is original.
Yes, that includes everything from top to bottom in gorgeous rooms like this...
...to this space, which served as John's office.
Heck, this is the very cane the man used. Original portraits, busts, dinnerware, and books are also featured.
And of course we can't forget the Stone Library, which houses a collection of John Quincy Adams' books.
3. The Adams Crypt
This stop is not included on the tour, but since you're already in the area, it's worth checking out. After leaving Peace Field, you're just a short drive away from United First Parish Church where John, Abigail, John Quincy, and his wife Louisa are buried. It's a moving conclusion to your trip back in time.
For more information about tours through the Adams National Historic Park, click here. Tours run through the end of October for the 2022 season.