In The Heart Of The Finger Lakes Region - Geneva, NY

In the heart of New York’s scenic Finger Lakes region, on the northern rim of Seneca Lake is the historic, charming, and picturesque small city of Geneva. This area began as part of the Pulteney Estate which was then settled by land promoter Captain Charles Williamson, who named it Geneva because the lakeside locale reminded him of Geneva Switzerland. It was first incorporated in 1806, then again in 1812 and 1871. The city originally capitalized on the fertile soil of the Finger Lakes region with plant nurseries as one of the first businesses. Philanthropist and nurseryman, William Smith was the founder of the William Smith College here in 1908. The college joined with Hobart College (formed in 1822) and Geneva is the location of their campus. Today the city of Geneva enjoys a lively downtown, cultural arts, wineries, fishing and waterfront area.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

At the Visitors Center

The Geneva City Hall was built in 1913

The YMCA Building entrance

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Geneva (NY) (Images of America)

By Geneva Historical Society

Treasures of American Architecture in Geneva, NY

By Wirtz, H. Edmond

Hobart and William Smith; the history of two colleges

By Smith, Warren Hunting

The YMCA Building was built in 1893

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The Farmers and Merchants Bank was constructed between 1914-1915.

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Linden Street storefronts

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Smith's Opera House, now a historic performing arts theater, was built in 1894.

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The ticket booth inside Smith's Opera House

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The First United Methodist Church

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Collins Music Hall was completed in 1893, and was built by Captain and Mrs Louis Dell Collins.

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The Hobart and William Smith Colleges, as they are known, are private liberal arts colleges with a scenic campus. 

This statue of Dr Elizabeth Blackwell is on the Hobart and Willam Smith Colleges (originally Generva College) campus. She is known worldwide as the first woman to receive her degree as a Doctor of Medicine. Rejected everywhere she applied, she was ultimately admitted to Geneva College, but her acceptance letter was intended as a practical joke and she was ostracized and shunned as a "bad" woman for defying her gender role. She graduated first in her class in 1849.

St John's Chapel was built between 1860-1863 on the college campus.

The interior of St John's Chapel

Lake Street Station Winery is a former 1922 Texaco Station.

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The former train station, now converted into retails shops.

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St Francis deSales Church on Exchange Street

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What you should know:

• Public restrooms are available in the Visitors Center.

• This is a walkable town, and a great way to get around.

• On the street parking is available; check posted parking regulations signs.

• There are many restaurant and entertainment options.

For more information: Geneva, NY