Troy | USA Ohio

1. Overview

Troy is a mid-sized city in Miami County, southwestern Ohio, located along the Great Miami River. It serves as the county seat and is part of the Dayton metropolitan area.

Population: ~27,000

Founded: 1807

Location: ~20 miles north of Dayton

Known for: Historic downtown, aviation legacy, annual Strawberry Festival

2. Historical Background

Troy was established shortly after Ohio gained statehood. It was named after the ancient city of Troy, reflecting settlers' interest in classical history. From the 19th century onward, the city grew through agriculture, milling, and industrial innovation.

Key Historical Sites:

Overfield Tavern Museum (1808): One of the oldest buildings in Troy, it offers exhibits on pioneer life and early American tavern culture.

Miami County Courthouse: An ornate Beaux-Arts structure built in 1888, it's a civic and architectural landmark.

WACO Aircraft Company Legacy: Troy was home to the WACO Aircraft Company, once the largest manufacturer of civil aircraft in the U.S. during the 1920s–30s.

3. City Layout & Neighborhoods

Troy’s layout includes a vibrant downtown square, residential suburbs, commercial zones, and riverside parks.

Downtown Troy

A well-preserved historic district.

Anchored by the fountain at the Public Square and Miami County Courthouse.

Contains boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and government buildings.

West Troy

Residential area with older homes and established neighborhoods.

Close to Troy High School and city parks.

East Side / Staunton

Mix of residential and light industrial zones.

Includes newer developments and commercial corridors along State Route 55 and 202.

North End

Contains newer subdivisions and shopping plazas.

Near I-75 interchanges for easy commuter access.

South Troy

More rural character with farms and housing developments.

Hosts the Hobart Urban Nature Preserve and Miami Shores Golf Course.

4. Economy & Major Employers

Troy’s economy is built around advanced manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, and food production. It benefits from proximity to Dayton, I-75, and local workforce development programs.

Major Employers:

Hobart Corporation: Food equipment manufacturer, long headquartered in Troy.

Clopay Building Products: Major garage door manufacturer.

F&P America: Automotive components.

Honda and suppliers: Regional facilities draw from Troy’s labor force.

Premier Health / Upper Valley Medical Center: Local healthcare hub.

Economic Characteristics:

Median Household Income: ~$70,000

Unemployment: Below national average

Business Incentives: Through Troy Development Council and the I-75 Growth Corridor

5. Education

Public Schools – Troy City Schools:

Includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Troy High School.

Strong academic, music, and athletic programs.

Private/Charter Options:

St. Patrick Catholic School

Troy Christian Schools (K–12, religious-based)

Higher Education Nearby:

Edison State Community College (Piqua, ~10 mins)

Wright State University (Dayton, ~25 mins)

University of Dayton (35 mins)

6. Parks & Outdoor Recreation

Troy is known for its parks, trails, and riverfront amenities:

Great Miami River Recreational Trail

A 75-mile trail along the river used for biking, jogging, and walking.

Connects Troy to Piqua and Dayton.

Hobart Urban Nature Preserve

80-acre nature area with hiking paths and birdwatching.

Duke Park

Large community park with ball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and event shelters.

Troy Community Park

Access to the river, walking trails, and community events.

7. Arts, Culture & Events

Hayner Cultural Center

Former mansion turned cultural hub.

Hosts art exhibits, concerts, writing workshops, and community events.

WACO Air Museum

Displays restored aircraft and memorabilia from the WACO Aircraft Co.

Hosts air shows and youth programs.

Annual Events:

Troy Strawberry Festival: First weekend of June. Draws 100,000+ with food, music, arts, and a parade.

PorchFest: Local musicians perform on porches throughout the historic Southwest neighborhood.

Sculptures on the Square: Biennial outdoor art exhibit downtown.

8. Dining & Shopping

Local Favorites:

La Piazza: Upscale Italian in the heart of downtown.

Smith’s Boathouse Restaurant: Waterfront dining on the Great Miami River.

Bakehouse Bread & Cookie Co.: Artisan bakery and café.

K’s Hamburger Shop: A classic, 1930s-era diner.

Shopping:

Locally owned shops downtown.

Retail corridors along Main Street and I-75 (Meijer, Menards, Kohl’s, etc.)

9. Community & Lifestyle

Family-friendly: Excellent parks, schools, and safety.

Commuter-friendly: Close to Dayton and connected to the I-75 corridor.

Active community organizations: Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, arts councils.

Growing interest in sustainability and historic preservation.

10. Summary

Troy, Ohio is a thriving city that combines historical character, modern industry, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Whether exploring its aviation history, enjoying riverside recreation, or attending local festivals, Troy offers an appealing lifestyle that bridges tradition and progress.