Joseph Ellicott and the Holland Land Company

Take a step back in time and see what might have been found in the Holland Land Office during the of Joseph Ellicott. See Joseph Ellicott and Robert Morris’s desks and what kind of equipment was used to survey the land. Learn about the history of the Holland Land Company as well as key players in the development of Western New York. This room holds a model of the ship “The Batavia,” a merchant vessel which sailed between Holland and the far East, examples of land deeds of the time period, a letter press, and a stone marker, which would have assisted Joseph Ellicott and his team in surveying the land. In this room you are also able to see the original Rosewood cabinets that were housed in the Richmond Mansion.

                          

                          

Explore the rich history of the Native American tribes of Western New York in our Native American room. see a portrait of great orator Red Jacket and learn how he helped secure Haudenosaunee land rights through the Treaty of Big Tree. Gain a better understanding of the Seneca people by seeing a 3D model of a longhouse and other examples of items used during everyday life. Finally, learn about Ely Parker, adjunct to Lt. General Grant and Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and his connection to Genesee County.
                         

Have fun in our Pioneer Kitchen learning and guessing what different objects were used for. Feel for yourself how heavy a cast iron pot is or see how people of the time period made toast. Experience everything our pioneer kitchen has to offer, including butter churns, bed warmers, a spinning wheel, and sewing machines. Take a step back and imagine what life would have been like in the pioneer days.

                          

 

Take a trip down memory lane and see what old Batavia was like. Learn about agriculture through farming equipment and photographs. Stop by the old post office and imagine what it might have been like sending letters back then. See old advertisements and cozy up by the marble fireplace from the Richmond mansion. If you enjoy music, you will love the Genesee Symphony Orchestra’s display on the history of their organization, also featured in this room.
   

 

Learn about Genesee County’s impact in each war, from the Revolutionary War until the Vietnam War. The lives of Ralph Chandler, Charles Rand, and Emory Upton, who were all residents of Genesee County are on display and detail their impact on the military. On display are items that these men may have owned or used throughout the war, including Emory Upton’s West Point uniform and trunk, and Charles Rand’s Medal of Honor. Take a look at the history of Batavia’s police force and firemen through objects they would have used. Explore Batavia’s more gruesome history by learning about the County Gibbet and its victims

   

 

 

Pictures of General Emory Upton through his military career

 

Miniature Portrait of Henry I. Glowacki