The town’s charming downtown square, historic architecture and engaging past add to the appeal. Here are 7 things to know about Troy:
1. Ancient Greece. Troy was named after the ancient Greek city of Troy, according to the Ohio History Connection. Established in 1808, the community is the county seat for Miami County.
Credit: Submitted
Credit: Submitted
2. Oldest surviving building. Benjamin Overfield, an early pioneer, paid $95 for a lot at the corner of Water and Mulberry streets, according to the Troy History Alliance. He built a home on the land out of beech logs and moved his family into it in 1808. The home served as a tavern and inn for travelers. Today, the Overfield Tavern, Troy's oldest surviving building, is a museum.
3. A community focal point. The ornate Beaux Arts-style Miami County Courthouse, located in Troy, was designed by Columbus architect J.W. Yost and completed in 1888. It is topped by a statue of Lady Justice, the highest point on the building at 185 feet. Four clock faces can be seen from all directions of the dome at the top of the building.
4. Aircraft manufacturer. Aviation is intertwined with Troy's history. The Weaver Aircraft Company, known as WACO, began in 1919. The company was the largest manufacturer of civil aircraft, used by explorers, salesman and the postal service, in the late 1920s and 1930s.
5. Innovation yesterday and today. Charles C. Hobart founded three Troy businesses, the Hobart Brothers Company, Hobart Cabinet Company and the Hobart Electric Manufacturing Company. Hobart Brothers, established in 1917, would become a mainstay in the welding industry and opened a welding school in 1930. Hobart Electric Manufacturing Company, founded in 1897, is an anchor of the food equipment industry, and Hobart Cabinet Company, founded in 1906, manufactured cabinet and office furniture.
Credit: None
Credit: None
6. Burger sensation. Twin brothers Paul and David Klein took a big risk during the Great Depression starting a business in 1935 selling hamburgers for a nickel. Their idea was a success and K's Hamburger Shop continues to thrive today.
7. Festival fun. Each year, thousands flock to Miami County for the Troy Strawberry Festival. The event began in 1977 and the annual parade made its debut in 1980. Strawberry butter, barbeque sauce, pies and pickles are just a sampling of the fruit dishes that draw festival-goers.
About the Author