Tracking Your History

09/10/2026

It’s the start of a new chapter - cheers to the next nine months!

07/06/2026

One of my favorite parts of museum work is seeing an idea slowly become an exhibit.

What visitors experience in a few minutes often represents months of research, writing, artifact selection, design meetings, revisions, and collaboration. Every label, photograph, object, and layout choice is intentional.

It's rewarding to help transform our HSQAC collections into experiences that educate, spark curiosity, and tell the stories of Quincy and Adams County.

I can't wait for visitors to experience what's coming next!

Read the article here:

QUINCY — Sydney Jarvis carefully unrolls the fabric holding a collection of Civil War-era medical instruments. “I never know what I’m about to walk into on any given day,” said […]

05/19/2026

a day in the life of a museum collections manager ✏️

04/13/2026

A couple weeks ago, I had to go to Kansas City for a collection transport and …. why not make a day of it?!

This is the largest pre-Civil War era collection known to exist with over 60 tons of artifacts 🤯 from fine intact China-ware, to animal hide and frontier tools, to the smallest Italian glazed buttons, this is a museum that leaves you breathless.

And the giant paddle wheel? What a looker!

If you haven’t toured this museum, don’t wait! Seriously, don’t wait - they’re closing in November 😢 I sure hope they find a new home…

Jake came along too 😍

03/30/2026

Another year in the books as a judge for the regional National History Day fair!

Swipe to see some of my favorite exhibit boards 🤓

03/12/2026

Come hang out with me and the gang at our next event in April!

YP Council Close-up: Nancy Benz

Nancy has been participating in YP since 2018, and loves being able to connect YP to local history when she gets the chance! She also owns Tracking Your History, where all things history is explored 🧐

Get to know her more this year 👇

Quincy Area Chamber Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County

02/15/2026

Back for round 2 😍

Although I wasn’t on my A-game and had to leave early (lovely timing for a migraine attack), I hope the attendees walked away with more information on the first woman to run for president, Victoria Claflin Woodhull; she was a beast!

Did you know she lived in Quincy for a few years? Another way Quincy is connected to national historical moments 🤯

02/06/2026

I love seeing students connect with the past!

This is one of my favorite activities working in collection management and museums. Giving hands-on experiences with the past can be the spark that a student needs to engage with history for the rest of their lives.

01/26/2026

Last week at the Quincy Area Chamber’s Annual Meeting, I was recognized as Young Professional of the Year 🤯

Over the last few years, I’ve really grown into my career as a public historian, preservationist, and community builder. These years have been marked by growth, challenges, and a commitment to becoming a better, more authentic human.

I believe in the power of community, engagement, mentoring, and teamwork. I did not get where I am alone. There were - and are - many people who have helped shape me into the professional and person I am today, and this award is an extension of their commitment to me.

Thank you for choosing me as your 2025 Young Professional of the Year 💜