Batavia, city in western New York and seat of Genesee County. Batavia is located 56 km (35 mi) east of Buffalo and 48 km (30 mi) west of Rochester. A point of interest in Batavia is the Tonawanda Indian Reservation. During the War of 1812 Batavia was converted into a military camp and refugee center. The city was incorporated in 1915 and is governed by a council and a manager. Industrial firms located in the city have manufactured color television sets and construction equipment. Population 16,256 (2000).