Explore the history of Rose Hill after Agnes and Margaret Swan sold the property in 1890. Learn about the pivotal figures who worked to save and restore the mansion. See how ideas about methods of preservation and interpretation have changed since the building opened to the public and how that has changed the visitor experience at Rose Hill. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Historic Geneva is commemorating the anniversary with exhibits, programs, and blog articles. Historic Preservation at Rose Hill is part of the 250th commemoration. Open May 1 to October 31, 2026.
This exhibit examines the evolution of historic preservation in Geneva. Geneva has a remarkably intact stock of historic buildings, especially residences, yet many important buildings have been lost. How have the citizens thought about preservation? What have we chosen to save and why? Explore these questions about historic preservation and how the Geneva community has thought about it, in this exhibit which will run July 25 through the end of 2026. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Historic Geneva is commemorating the anniversary with exhibits, programs, and blog articles. To Save or Not to Save: Historic Preservation in Geneva is part of the 250th commemoration.
Behind the beautiful façade, hundreds of people have labored to run Rose Hill from the time it was the center of a 1200-acre farm to its recent history as a historic house museum. The nature of the work and the people who do it has changed over 200 years. ”One House, Many People“ chronicles enslaved, paid, and volunteer workers from Rose Hill. “One House, Many People” is sponsored in part by ESL Charitable Foundation.
Much of Geneva’s history is related to its surroundings. For centuries, people have been drawn to Geneva for the land and water: abundant wildlife, fertile soil, and east-west transportation routes. Geneva’s Changing Landscapes examines the impact of the environment on Geneva’s development.
The Geneva History Museum features two rooms with furniture and decorative arts ranging from the 18th century to the late 19th century. The rooms explore the Prouty and Walker families—two families that have impacted the museum in different ways.
