John Adams holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Museum Studies from the University of Toronto, and has extensive experience working in the museums and cultural sector in BC. From 1974-2004, he worked in museum and historic site curatorship as well as management at the Burnaby Village Museum, Royal British Columbia Museum, and BC Heritage Branch.

John also taught Museum Studies at Simon Fraser University and the University of Victoria. Currently he is the owner and operator of Discover the Past in Victoria, providing walking tours, historical research, and writing of Victoria.

He is the author of six books, including Chinese Victoria, published in 2009. His other community engagement includes serving as former president of the BC Museums Association (1978-79), serving on the Victoria Historical Society (1988-90), and the Old Cemeteries Society (1990-1997).