It all began with an article I read about Quincy, Illinois, being a mecca for lovers of mid-century modern architecture or mid mod as it’s nicknamed.
Named after John Quincy Adams and located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, the city has a current population of 39,652. From its earliest days as a bustling, prosperous Mississippi port, it was referred to as “a gem of a city”. To this day, the residents still advertise it as the “Gem City”.
Since my husband and I both have a fondness for the Great River Road and mid mod architecture, we set off for Adams County and Quincy. We had no idea what treasures lay in store for us.
Arriving at sunset, we immediately drove across the bridge to Missouri. We wanted to view the sunset from the top of their massive suspension bridge. The trip back to town was over another bridge; Quincy’s two distinctive bridges are both one way. Driving through the town at dusk to our hotel, we were flabbergasted…such a funny word, but the correct one.
The mid-century modern homes we had come to see turned out to be only a small part of Quincy’s architectural treasures. This town has over 3,600 structures contributing to the National Register of Historic Places, with over 30 styles represented …everything from art deco to Venetian gothic revival and everything in between.
I am sure as we drove in the dusk, our heads resembled those of owls, turning in all directions. We had stumbled into a wonderland of architecture.
The next morning we began our tour at the Visitors’ Center which is located in Villa Kathrine, a former residence built to resemble a Moorish castle. Perched on a high bluff, this eccentric building has spectacular interiors and sweeping views of the Mississippi River.
I can’t find enough words to describe the endless riches and delights to be found touring Quincy’s neighborhoods. Pictures are so much better than any words I can conjure up…see for yourself.
