Troy-Hayner Cultural Center | Troy

The Troy-Hayner Cultural Center, located at 301 West Main Street in Troy, Ohio, is an architecturally significant and culturally vibrant institution housed in a historic mansion. Originally a private residence, it has evolved into a community-centered facility offering programs in arts, music, literature, and heritage preservation. It is recognized not only for its contributions to the arts but also for its beautifully preserved early 20th-century architecture and historical value.

Origins and Historical Significance

The mansion was built in 1914 as the private home of Mary Jane Harter Coleman Hayner, the widow of William S. Hayner, who founded the Hayner Distilling Company—a successful pre-Prohibition whiskey business. After her husband’s death in 1895, Mary Jane Hayner commissioned the house as a reflection of status and comfort, and it became one of the most distinguished private residences in Troy at the time.

In her last will and testament, Mary Jane Hayner specified that the house should serve the community for educational and cultural purposes. Honoring her wishes, in 1942, ownership of the mansion passed to the Troy Board of Education. It initially functioned as the public library from 1943 until 1976. Once the library moved to a new location, the building underwent preservation efforts and was transformed into a cultural center. In 1976, the Troy-Hayner Cultural Center officially opened as a public facility dedicated to community enrichment through the arts.

Architectural Style and Features

The building is a prime example of Tudor Revival architecture (sometimes categorized as Norman Romanesque Revival), which was popular in residential architecture for upper-class homes in the early 20th century. Key architectural and interior elements include:

Exterior

Stucco and half-timbering: The mansion's walls combine traditional stucco finishes with exposed wooden beams, typical of Tudor styling.

Steeply pitched gables and decorative chimneys, contributing to the building’s elegant and aristocratic look.

Beveled glass windows, each room featuring a different leaded glass pattern — a highly unique element.

Stone masonry base, giving the house a solid and grounded appearance.

Interior

Ornate woodwork: Custom-carved wood panels and staircases, showcasing early 20th-century craftsmanship.

Marble fireplaces: Several rooms contain fireplaces framed in rich marble, each distinct in design.

Stained-glass windows: These decorate formal rooms and corridors, filtering natural light with soft color tones.

Period-appropriate furnishings: The center maintains décor reflecting the early 1900s, immersing visitors in the time period of the mansion's original inhabitant.

One notable exterior feature is the historic light posts on the east side of the lawn. These were originally part of the Adams Street Bridge and were relocated to the center grounds as part of preservation and beautification efforts.

Cultural and Educational Programming

The Troy-Hayner Cultural Center plays a dynamic role in Troy’s community life by offering year-round programming designed for residents of all ages. Its offerings include:

Art Exhibitions

Rotating exhibits every 6–8 weeks.

Featuring both emerging and established artists from across the region.

Exhibits include traditional media (painting, sculpture, photography) and contemporary works (mixed media, digital).

Concert Series

Drawing Room Chamber Concerts: Classical music performed in the mansion’s elegant drawing room.

Jazz in March: A month-long jazz music series spotlighting local and regional talent.

Lucky Lemonade Series: Held in the courtyard during summer evenings.

Fridays on Prouty: A partnership event on Prouty Plaza that brings music to downtown Troy.

Classes and Workshops

Over 50 educational courses offered annually.

Topics range from painting and photography to writing, music, and crafts.

Art camps for children and workshops for adults are held seasonally.

Special Events

Boo Bash: A Halloween event for children with crafts, treats, and costume contests.

Holiday Decor Showcase: In December, the entire mansion is decorated room by room by local designers and volunteers, each reflecting unique themes.

Valentine Dinner and a Show: Combines a formal dinner with musical or theatrical performances.

PorchFest

The center is involved in Troy, Ohio PorchFest, a community-wide music event where local bands perform from front porches in the historic district, promoting neighborly connections and showcasing the town’s historic homes.

Community Role and Use

In addition to cultural programs, the Troy-Hayner Cultural Center serves as a venue for local organizations, non-profit groups, and civic meetings. Over 30 local groups make use of the center for their regular gatherings, including book clubs, civic societies, and art collectives.

The mansion also provides space for:

Lectures

Poetry readings

Heritage talks

Small theatrical performances

Private rentals for weddings and special events

Cotner-Hayner Annex

In 2023, the Cotner-Hayner Annex was opened to further support the center’s expanding role. Located at 22 North Short Street, this adjacent Craftsman-style home, originally built in 1921, was renovated with respect to its historical integrity and now offers:

A craft and meeting room for small workshops and children's programs.

Multi-purpose spaces for administrative meetings or small social events.

Additional room for community groups needing flexible gathering space.

The annex allows the Troy-Hayner Cultural Center to support simultaneous programming and increase its capacity for arts education and community development.

Public Access and Visiting Information

Admission: Free to the public.

Operating Hours:

Monday: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday and Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Closed on major holidays.

Conclusion

The Troy-Hayner Cultural Center is much more than a preserved historic mansion — it is a thriving arts and cultural institution deeply integrated into the identity of Troy, Ohio. It combines the preservation of local history with forward-looking community engagement. Through its wide range of exhibits, concerts, educational offerings, and public events, it continues to honor Mary Jane Hayner’s legacy by enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike. Its careful architectural preservation and vibrant programming make it a cornerstone of civic pride and cultural life in the Miami County region.