Geneseo was established in 1836 when 8 families from Geneseo and Bergren in Genessee County New York settled in Illinois seeking religious freedom and financial opportunities. The colonists named their new home Geneseo, of American Indian origin, which means “pleasant valley”. The original 40-acre town was recorded in Henry County on July 12, 1838 and the city was chartered by the state on February 16, 1865. Nestled amongst neighborhoods are yesterday's Victorian homes and a Victorian shopping area that will entice even the most hesitant shopper.

Geneseo is the type of town where kids look like the ones Norman Rockwell used to paint. The type of town that has more churches than taverns. The type of town that has concerts and ice cream socials in the summer. The type of town that decorates the city park on Flag Day. In a three mile radius Geneseo has establishment featuring antiques, collectibles and crafts. Add to this a tea room and best homemade pies this side of the Mississippi and we've just spelled an exciting afternoon. Geneseo's rich heritage has been preserved in Victorian glory and awaits your exploration.

Discover more about the community by visiting the Geneseo area web sites: www.geneseo.org