Roskamp-Ellerbrock selected to become executive director at Quincy Museum

QUINCY — Katherine Roskamp-Ellerbrock recently accepted the executive director position at the Quincy Museum following Barbara Wilkinson-Fletcher’s retirement. 

Roskamp-Ellerbrock has delivered marketing strategies on a national and global scale for the agricultural industry.

“Katie’s extensive leadership, marketing and community alliances will provide an exciting new chapter as we look to the future,” Barb Newman, board of directors president, said in a press release. “Katie will continue our tradition of preserving, presenting and educating while adding a fresh and vibrant perspective to our expanding programs at the Quincy Museum, the crown jewel of the Gem City.” 

Roskamp-Ellerbrock hails from Hancock County and is the sixth generation on her family’s grain and cattle farm. Having spent much time with her grandmother, Elma Roskamp, she has an appreciation for history that has carried with her to accept this position. 

Roskamp-Ellerbrock and her husband, Tim, reside in northern Adams County on his family’s farm. She is a graduate of both Western Illinois University’s School of Agriculture and Oklahoma State University’s master of agricultural communications program. She serves as one of the co-directors for the Adams County Fair Queen Pageant, where she coaches and prepares the contestants each year and the queen for the state pageant in Springfield each January. 

“I have a lot to learn from Barbara, but I am excited and energized to be working alongside the educators, volunteers and directors who have helped build the museum to where it is today, Roskamp-Ellerbrock said. “I look forward to collaborating with everyone to keep this Quincy tradition alive as we dive into this new chapter.”

“I have been working with Katie and helping her learn some of the ins and outs of this wonderful museum,” Wilkinson-Fletcher said. “She’s a fast learner, and I’m sure she will do a great job.  I feel comfortable leaving the museum in her capable hands.”

Quincy Museum is at 1601 Maine in the historic Newcomb-Stillwell Mansion. Built in 1890-91 for Richard F. Newcomb, the 20,000-square-foot house stands as a testament to the city’s industrial past. The house’s Richardsonian Romanesque design adds to its historic charm. The first floor of the house has been restored and beautifully furnished to the period of the 1890s. The second and third floors of the museum feature exhibits that provide a comprehensive overview of local history, natural history, dinosaurs and Native Americans. 

It is open for tours from 1-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and for private rentals. For more information, visit thequincymuseum.org or call 217-224-7669.