Oakwood Historical Society

The Oakwood Historical Society was incorporated in August 1974. The purpose of the Society is to preserve, research, display, publish, and promote interest among Oakwood residents in the history of the community, its government, schools, public enterprises, local citizens, and its architecture.

In 1983, the Society was revised to expand its ability to receive gifts, endowments, and bequests of historical significance. The Society now acts as a museum to preserve and record historical materials. The Oakwood Historical Society owns two properties:

  • The Long-Romspert Homestead, located at 1947 Far Hills Avenue. This structure was constructed in 1863 and includes a summer kitchen and a carriage house. It now serves as the Society’s historical museum.
  • The adjacent property at 1945 Far Hills Avenue.

The Society has made several improvements to the Long-Romspert Homestead over the past few years and is presently working on a new strategic plan. The major initiative of this plan is to develop the homestead into a historic house museum and archives/acquisition facility for public use. This calls for major renovation of the interior of the homestead and development of educational programs for the schools and for the general public as it pertains to Oakwood history and architecture. The Oakwood Historical Society also hopes to provide a parking area behind the property, enhance landscaping, and widen and improve the circular drive. Because of the growing interest in historic preservation in Oakwood, the City should work with the Society to help satisfy these future needs.

Other Community Facilities

The US Post Office is located at the southwest corner of Oakwood Avenue and Springhouse Road. According to Post Office officials, the current facility is in good structural condition and is adequate to serve the existing needs of the community. No major remodeling, expansion or replacement is anticipated in the immediate future.

Other community facilities in Oakwood include four churches, one synagogue, and a portion of a cemetery. These are important focal points within the community and some have historical interest. They include:

  • Lutheran Church of Our Savior.
  • St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
  • The Chabad Center of Greater Dayton.
  • Oakwood United Methodist Church.
  • Concordia Lutheran Church.
  • A portion of the Beth Abraham Cemetery.
Final Report: Oakwood Comprehensive Plan Update Page 58