“Crime & Punishment in Genesee County”
February-June 2026
Conflicts over land started nearly immediately among the new arrivals, and, as a result, the history of crimes committed in Genesee County can be traced almost as far back as 1802, the year the county was created. In 1807, the first hanging for a crime in the county was recorded. How did the new community of Genesee County deal with crimes committed within it? Throughout the county’s history, law enforcement developed to meet the needs of the growing population. In the earliest days, the county sheriff was the head of law enforcement in Batavia, and he relied on elected town and village constables to provide support for his duties.
Today, the sheriff’s office looks much different, with almost 50 deputies patrolling Genesee County. As for police officers, the Village of Batavia saw its first constable elected in 1834, growing to include more officers until the force was thirty-three strong by 2020. The nature of crimes also changed. In the 19th century, there were murders committed over land disputes and interpersonal conflict, but as the county grew and manufacturing exploded with the laying of railroads, organized crime made an appearance and those catering to the vices of the population had the chance to build fortunes.
Through this exhibit, the Holland Land Office Museum traces the shifting landscape of the people on both sides of the law in Genesee County—those who kept it, and those who broke it. “Crime & Punishment Genesee County” will be on display from February through June 2026.
“Look What Happened- Plain & Simple”
Art Exhibit- Anthony Terrell
February-March 2026
Batavia Society of Artists Showcase
Come view pieces by a different member of the Batavia Society of Artists every two months! This month’s featured artist is David Burke!
Permanent Exhibits
Joseph Ellicott and Robert Morris
Learn more about the Surveyor and Resident Agent of the Holland Land Company Joseph Ellicott. Joseph and his family played a pivotal role in the development of Genesee County and Western New York. We even have him to thank for the founding of Batavia. Ellicott is often called the “Father of WNY”. Robert Morris was the man who owned WNY and sold to the Holland Land Company in 1797. Morris was the richest man in the United States at the time and was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Land Office Room
Travel back in time in one of the original offices to learn more about the Holland Land Office and its importance to the development of WNY. Follow the lives of some of the important agents and surveyors, and what was the function of the land office. Also, learn more of the Native American side to the story, particularly the Seneca and their dealings with the land company from the Treaty of Big Tree of 1797 and onward. The lives of many prominent chiefs and leaders are depicted including Red Jacket and Mary Jemison.
East Wing
Take a trip down memory lane and see what old Batavia was like. Learn about agriculture through farming equipment from the large manufacturers that called Batavia home. Stop by the old post office and imagine what it might have been like sending letters back then. See the glorious remnants of the Richmond Mansion and even cozy up by its marble fireplace If you enjoy music, you will love the Genesee Symphony Orchestra’s display on the history of their organization. Learn about one of the great politicians of our area, Barber Conable. You can even enjoy our art gallery wall, with rotating works by local artists.
