Why did people come to settle in Rochester?

People settled in Rochester due to its strategic location along the Genesee River, which provided water power for mills and later facilitated transportation. The area’s fertile land attracted agricultural development, while the growth of industries like flour milling and manufacturing created job opportunities. The construction of the Erie Canal in the 1820s further spurred economic growth, making Rochester a key trade hub. Additionally, the city’s progressive social movements and educational institutions drew a diverse population seeking better opportunities.