Castle
Heights is a suburban haven with tree-lined streets and architecturally
diverse structures, nestled in the Northwest corner of the city of
Geneva, New York. This community provides both the luxury of larger residential
lots and the convenience of close proximity to downtown. The homes of
Castle Heights are built on previous tree orchard land from the Maxwell
and Smith Nurseries. Castle Heights’ rich history is also present today
in Cornell University’s New York State Agricultural Experiment Center as
well as the scientific landmark Smith Observatory. Lafayette Circle
Park serves as the heart of the community and a focal point for
neighborhood gatherings. Castle Heights residents, though all at
different stages in their lives, are brought together by cohesive
community and family values. This quaint neighborhood is walkable,
friendly, and overall an ideal place to plant your roots.
Fun Facts
- W. & T. Smith Nurseries was established in 1846. In 1921, it sold its land to a real estate company to develop into houses despite the Geneva municipality's attempt to acquire it as an arboretum park.
- When Castle Heights started building streets in 1922, each street cost around $10,000 to establish.
- The name Castle Heights originated in 1923 when the subdivision called "Castle Heights Homes" opened on the 52 acres formerly owned by the Maxwell estate.
- Castle Heights has been marketed as the most beautiful and practical subdivision of Geneva since its origin in 1923.
- The legislature to start the New York State Agriculture Experiment Station passed in 1880 and full operational rights were granted to Cornell University in 1923.
- Edgewood Street is found on maps of Castle Heights, but does not actually exist. It is known as a "paper street".
Built in 1888, Smith Observatory is noted for the discoveries of Dr. William R. Brooks. The observatory is located on Castle Street in the Castle Heights neighborhood.