Adams was born in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. In 1878, when he was 17, Adams moved to Alamosa, Colorado. He was later elected to City Treasurer, then Mayor of Alamosa, and later as Conejos County commissioner.
Adams' early life began in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. In 1878, at the age of 17, he made his way to Alamosa, Colorado. He later pursued a career in local government, serving as City Treasurer, Mayor of Alamosa, and Conejos County commissioner.