WHO HELPED SHAPE BATAVIA

Plan a visit to the Batavia Depot Museum to learn about the strong women who contributed to the city’s story. “Never Done: The Women Who Built Batavia” showcases Batavia Historical Society artifacts from women who lived in this city on the Fox River.

Meet Cora Mae West (1933-2004), a Batavian known for her literary skills, and see her manuscript on display.

West moved to Batavia in 1964 into a coach house that she transformed into a writer’s den, complete with a large book collection and typewriter. In the 1970s, she moved to Michigan and worked as a writer’s helper for a professor, returning to Batavia in the early 1980s. She wrote poetry and was a founding member of the Batavia Writers Workshop. Numerous anthologies published her poems. West was integral in the Batavia arts community until her death in 2004. A 2005 city-wide memorial service celebrated her life and contributions to the community.

The exhibit features other remarkable accomplishments by Batavia women and runs through July 2023. For details, visit bataviaparks.org/batavia-depot-museum.

Free, all ages

If you’ve ever wondered about the back story of your house, this event is for you. Author and house history expert Julia Johnas will share tips and tricks to uncover your home’s past. Find out when your house was built and who previously lived there. Register with the library to reserve your ticket.

Cheers Through the Years

Friday, May 5, 7-9 p.m. Starts at Depot Museum

$10, ages 21+

Grab your friends for a historyflavored night of 21+ fun in downtown Batavia. Check in at the Depot Museum by 7:30 p.m. to pick up your lanyard and map. Then head out to meet the barkeeps who keep some of Batavia’s best old properties still in use. Guided tour group leaves at 7:10 p.m.

(sub) urban Adventure Tour

Saturday, May 6, 2 p.m. $20 for trolley pass, all ages

Ride our historic trolley through storied neighborhoods and learn about local landmarks and past residents who contributed to the city’s growth.

Egg Hunts for Every Member of the Family!