Historic Geneva is a history museum in the Finger Lakes region of New York State which focuses on the history of Geneva, NY, historic architecture, genealogy, and the area's industry and agriculture. The Society maintains four historic 19th century properties, an archive and library, a museum and runs programs and events related to the history of Geneva and the Finger Lakes area.
Dr. William Brooks (1844-1921) built his first telescope from farm machinery parts a youth. In 1881 Brooks discovered his first comet while living in Phelps. William Smith built a house and an observatory for Brooks on Castle Street in 1888. He was the second most prolific visual finder of comets in the history of astronomy, having documented 27 over the course of his life. Sixteen of these he found from his observatory in Geneva. In 1900 he viewed and documented a solar eclipse in Geneva. He also taught astronomy at Hobart College for many years until his death.
For information about Embrace the Dark activities around Geneva, go to eclipsegeneva.com.
January 24, 1925, was the last time Geneva witnessed a total solar eclipse. Join us for a once in a lifetime experience and view the Great North America Solar Eclipse at Rose Hill Mansion.
The mansion’s grounds will open at 1 pm. Visitors can walk the grounds and preview the 2024 exhibits in the East Tenant Cottage prior to viewing the eclipse. Bring your own chairs and blanket. Totality in Geneva starts at 3:21 pm and will last approximately for 2 minutes and 21 seconds. After the eclipse the first floor of the mansion will be open for self-guided tours.
Solar Eclipse Information
To watch the solar eclipse, you must wear solar viewing glasses.
Among the things you experience during totality are the temperature will drop ten degrees; animals and plants will behave as if it’s night; planets and stars will be visible; and sharpening of shadows.
Even if April 8 is a cloudy day, it will still get dark.
The solar eclipse will begin at 2:07 pm and end at 4:34 pm.
2144 will be the next time a solar eclipse will be seen in New York State.
Visitors will work with their group and actors to explore Rose Hill while trying to solve clues and complete their tasks. Program has escape room, quest, and theatre elements.
Before the Great North American Solar Eclipse, visit the Geneva History Museum and view Comet Finder: Dr. William R. Brooks.
