Oakwood, OH
County: Montgomery
History
Oakwood, Ohio is a suburb located just south of Dayton in Montgomery County. The area that is now Oakwood was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, until the late 1700s when European settlers began to move in.
One of the early settlers in the area was Benjamin Van Cleve, who purchased a large tract of land in what is now Oakwood from John Smith, a local Native American leader. Van Cleve built a log cabin in 1796, which is now a museum called the Patterson Homestead.
Throughout the 1800s, the area developed slowly, mainly being used for farming and agriculture. However, the growth of nearby Dayton fueled the development of Oakwood. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the suburb experienced a population boom as wealthy individuals from Dayton sought to build grand homes in the area.
Oakwood officially became a village in 1908 and later a city in 1976. The name "Oakwood" was chosen due to the large number of oak trees in the area. The suburb's development continued through the 20th century, with the construction of parks, schools, and other amenities.
One notable aspect of Oakwood's history is its role in the 1913 Dayton flood, one of the most devastating floods in American history. The flood caused significant damage to Oakwood, but the community was able to rebuild and recover.
Today, Oakwood is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, well-preserved historic homes, and strong sense of community. It is considered one of the most desirable places to live in the Dayton area and continues to attract residents who value its charm and historic character.
Attractions
Smith Gardens
Located in Oakwood, Smith Gardens is a beautifully landscaped public garden spread over 35 acres. It features various themed gardens, walking trails, picnic areas, and a stunning display of flowers throughout the year.
Trails End Farm
A historic farmstead turned nature preserve, Trails End Farm offers serene hiking trails through fields, woodlands, and alongside the scenic Stillwater River. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Oakwood Historical Society
The Oakwood Historical Society operates Hoyt House Museum, which showcases the history of Oakwood through exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours. Visitors can learn about the city's past and explore the beautifully restored Victorian-era mansion.
Houk Stream Overlook
This overlook at the Houk Stream Wetland Preserve provides a panoramic view of the wetland area, where visitors can observe a variety of bird species and other wildlife. It's a peaceful spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Oakwood Community Center
The Oakwood Community Center hosts various recreational programs, classes, and events for all age groups. It has a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, basketball courts, and a walking track, offering opportunities for fitness and leisure activities.
Oakwood Lumberyard
Converted into a unique commercial district, the Oakwood Lumberyard features charming shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. It's a quaint destination for shopping, dining, and exploring local businesses.
Orchardly Park
Orchardly Park is a family-friendly park in Oakwood with playgrounds, picnic areas, a splash pad, and tennis courts. It's an ideal spot for outdoor activities and gatherings.
Oakwood Avenue
Known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, Oakwood Avenue offers a scenic drive or walk through the city. The avenue features charming residential architecture and is especially picturesque during the fall season with vibrant autumn colors.
These are just a few attractions in Oakwood, OH. The city also has several recreational parks, golf courses, and nearby attractions in the greater Dayton area.
Climate
Oakwood, Ohio has a humid continental climate, classified as Dfa in the Köppen climate classification system. This means that the city experiences four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
Summers in Oakwood are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the mid-80s to low-90s degrees Fahrenheit (27-32 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be quite high during this season, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are fairly common during the summer months, which can occasionally lead to heavy rainfall and even severe weather.
Fall in Oakwood is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Average highs during the autumn months range from the mid-50s to low-70s degrees Fahrenheit (12-23 degrees Celsius), gradually cooling as the season progresses. Rainfall tends to be moderate during this time.
Winters in Oakwood are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low-40s degrees Fahrenheit (2-6 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common throughout the season, and temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. Occasional heavy snowstorms are possible, especially in January and February.
Spring in Oakwood brings milder temperatures and increasing rainfall. High temperatures gradually rise from the mid-50s to mid-70s degrees Fahrenheit (12-24 degrees Celsius) as the season progresses. Spring showers and thunderstorms become more frequent during this time.
Overall, Oakwood experiences a fairly typical Midwest climate, with distinct seasons and variable weather patterns.
Neighborhoods
Oakwood, OH is a charming city located just south of Dayton in Montgomery County. Despite being a small community, Oakwood is made up of several unique neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Oakwood:
Old Oakwood
As the name suggests, this is the oldest and historic part of Oakwood. It features beautiful tree-lined streets with well-preserved homes showcasing various architectural styles, including Colonial, Tudor, and Arts and Crafts. Old Oakwood is known for its historic charm and a strong sense of community.
Far Hills
Far Hills is one of the prominent neighborhoods in Oakwood, featuring stunning homes with expansive yards and manicured gardens. This area is home to some of the city's larger, more luxurious properties. Far Hills also boasts easy access to The Oakwood Club, a prestigious private country club.
Shafor Park
Located around the picturesque Shafor Park, this neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, from charming cottages to larger homes. Shafor Park itself is a popular gathering spot for residents and offers outdoor recreational activities, including a playground, tennis courts, and walking trails.
Harman/Schell
Situated around Oakwood High School, the Harman/Schell neighborhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. The area is characterized by houses in various architectural styles, and its proximity to the school makes it an excellent choice for families with school-aged children.
Irving/East
The Irving/East neighborhood is located in the eastern part of Oakwood, close to numerous retail and dining options. The area boasts a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes and townhouses, making it a popular choice for young professionals and couples.
Oakwood Avenue
Situated near the city center, Oakwood Avenue is a vibrant neighborhood offering a mix of residential properties and local businesses. The area is known for its walkability, with numerous shops, restaurants, and community facilities within easy reach. Oakwood Avenue is also home to the Oakwood Community Center and the Smith Gardens.
These are just a few of the distinct neighborhoods within Oakwood, each contributing to the overall charm and appeal of this close-knit community.