Exploring Geneva's Past: Historic Lithograph and Educational Tours Illuminate Our Local Heritage

The 1873 Geneva bird’s-eye view lithograph by Augustus Koch provides a detailed historical view of Geneva, a village by Seneca Lake. This lithograph shows the street layout, building architecture, and the civic and commercial activities of that time. Bird’s-eye views like this served multiple purposes: they were part map, part directory, and part advertisement, reflecting the pride and ambitions of American communities in the 19th century.

In a third-grade educational program, this lithograph, along with a 1904 atlas map, helps illustrate how Geneva has changed over time. This program teaches students about local history and the impact of human activities on the environment. Students will compare historical and current views of Geneva during a bus tour of the lakefront in June, enhancing their understanding of their community’s evolution.

Historic Geneva, which maintains a large collection of local historical materials, plays a key role in preserving and displaying the city’s history. The 'Geneva Then and Now' exhibition uses these materials to show changes in the city’s infrastructure, helping both residents and visitors connect with Geneva’s past. These visual resources are crucial for educational and cultural purposes, providing insights into the city’s development.

Augustus Koch, the creator of the 1873 lithograph, was a German immigrant and Civil War draftsman who specialized in such views across America, especially in the West and Midwest. His work, including the Geneva lithograph, was part of a 19th-century trend where artists produced detailed lithographs of towns and cities, often sold by subscription and highlighting local landmarks and businesses for a fee.

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