Event Details
The City of Quincy will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with Open Heritage on October 17, 2026. The day features free tours, programs, and experiences at historic sites across the city.
The event invites residents and visitors to explore Quincy’s historic places and learn how the city and its people have shaped the American story. Quincy Mayor Tom Koch emphasizes the importance of recognizing Quincy’s role in national history and celebrating the city’s legacy.
Select programs have scheduled presentations throughout the day.
Participating Sites
A wide range of historic and cultural locations will be open, including:
Peacefield
Old Town Hall
Adams Academy / Quincy Historical Society
Church of the Presidents
Hancock Cemetery
USS Salem (CA139)
Josiah Quincy House
Quincy Quarry & Granite Workers Museum
Souther Tide Mill
Dorothy Quincy Homestead
Additional partner sites throughout the city
Visitor Experience
Guests are encouraged to “choose their own adventure” through house museums, a Navy warship, exhibits, living history demonstrations, and special presentations. Community ambassadors will be available to greet visitors and answer questions.
Transportation & Logistics
Free trolley service will run throughout the day between major sites and Heritage Hubs.
Trolley pickup points include:
Quincy Historical Society (8 Adams Street)
Behind the Munroe Building near City Hall
Onstreet parking will be available near participating locations.
Highlighted Programs & Activities
USS Salem (CA139)
Open 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Souther Tide Mill
Rolling presentations from noon–4 p.m.
Hancock-Adams Common
Activities 10 a.m.–4 p.m., including colonial lawn games and a self-guided tour via QR code.
12:15–12:45 p.m.: Lunchtime lecture by Historic Heritage Director Bob Damon.
4–5 p.m.: Historian Brooke Barbier presents “Cocked and Boozy: An Intoxicating History of the American Revolution.”
Hancock Cemetery
Guided tours every 30 minutes:
10 a.m.–noon
1–4 p.m.
Church of the Presidents
Self-guided tours 10 a.m.–4 p.m., including access to the Adams Crypt.
Old Town Hall Museum
Self-guided tours 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Additional Programming: More tours, demonstrations, exhibits, and presentations will be shown across the city.
All programs and activities are free.