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. Today, we often lose sight of how the land continues to shape Geneva’s identity.

Geneva’s Changing Landscapes examines Geneva through environmental history, which is the study of how humans relate to, use, and affect (or are affected by) nature. Hills and valleys, the size and strength of streams, soil quality, and the length of our seasons have directly, or indirectly, influenced the city’s history. This can be seen in nature but also in how the city is built.

The exhibit was made possible by the New York Council for the Humanities and many generous sponsors: the Wyckoff Family Foundation, Wegmans of Geneva, Red Jacket Orchards, Phelps Sungas, Inc., the Women’s Council of the Geneva Historical Society, Ellen and Kevin Mitchell, Dr. Olaf and Mrs. Elaine Lieberg, Mr. and Mrs. John Shanahan, Ford and Harriot Weiskittel, Charles and Joanne Wisor, and an anonymous donor in the memory of Warren Hunting Smith.