In 1962 the Quincy Museum began as a small museum for Indian artifacts in Indian Mounds Park in Quincy, Illinois. The original building was constructed by Dr. James Reed and the following year donated to the Quincy Park District. In 1963, Dr. John L. Snow was contacted to manage the museum with the help of Explorer Post Eagle Scouts. In 1965 the museum received its charter as a Not-for-Profit corporation. Under the guidance of Dr. Snow and it's Board of Directors, the museum grew and expanded and entertained visitors from around the world.
In 1969 the museum moved from Indian Mounds Park to Quinsippi Island, an island in the Mississippi River near the City of Quincy. With the help of the Moorman Manufacturing Company, and the Quincy Park District a new building was erected on the island. The new museum fit into the plans for new development on the island by the City of Quincy, and opened on May 22, 1971. The move sparked new interest in the museum and gifts and donations increased for the collections. In 1977 the Smithsonian Museum took a special interest in the museum and helped to expand and redesign exhibits for the museum's nationally important collection of Indian artifacts and their natural history collections. The Smithsonian donated a number of specially designed artifact cases for museum displays.
In 1980, the museum Board of Directors were looking to once again grow and expand their horizons. A new site more centrally located for visitation and school tours was being looked for. New marina development caused access problems to the island and restricted a large number of visitors from reaching the museum and enjoying the popular exhibits. The Richard F. Newcomb House became available for purchase in 1980. Built in 1890-91, it was a remarkable example of Victorian elegance. In 1980 the board leased the home from the Quincy College for one year.
