Dayton History

Join us at Dayton Local as we explore the rich history and culture of Dayton Ohio, sharing historical and nostalgic stories from our local communities.

Dayton History in Dayton

Belmont Auto Theatre: The story behind the iconic drive-in movie theater

Belmont Auto Theatre: The story behind the iconic drive-in movie theater

The Belmont Auto Theatre, located at the southeast corner of the intersection at County Line and Shakertown Road, opened on August 7, 1947.

The stories behind Dayton street names

The stories behind Dayton street names

What's in a Dayton street name? From Alex-Bell to Watervliet, we reveal the history and the people behind familiar, yet curious street names around Dayton.

Orville Wright's Final Flight

Orville Wright's Final Flight

On April 26, 1944, Orville Wright climbed into a C-69. Do you know the fascinating story behind Orville Wright's final flight?

As scheduled Opening Day passes, we celebrate the Dayton Dragons

As scheduled Opening Day passes, we celebrate the Dayton Dragons

Due to COVID-19 and the stay-at-home-order in Ohio, the scheduled opening day for the Dayton Dragons 21st season will pass without a single called strike or passed ball.

Happy Birthday, Dayton Ohio!

Happy Birthday, Dayton Ohio!

It's no April Fools! The City of Dayton was founded on April 1, 1796. Here are some fun facts about our hometown of Dayton, Ohio.

Memories of the Salem Mall

Memories of the Salem Mall

The memory may not be as fond as our first kiss, or car, but we all remember the first shopping mall we visited. I'm sure I'm not alone in that my introduction to shopping occurred at the Salem Mall.

Triangle Park: Site of First Game In The NFL

Triangle Park: Site of First Game In The NFL

On October 3, 1920, the Dayton Triangles made history when they hosted the Columbus Panhandles at Triangle Park in Dayton, Ohio.

Young's celebrating 150th with $1.50 ice-cream, cheeseburgers, more

Young's celebrating 150th with $1.50 ice-cream, cheeseburgers, more

A look back on 150 years of Young's Jersey Dairy as they celebrate with several menu items priced at $1.50.

In Memory of Judy Chaffin - The Pumpkin Lady

In Memory of Judy Chaffin - The Pumpkin Lady

It is with great sadness that we report Judy Chaffin, the Pumpkin Lady passed away Friday, December 21st.

Clifton Mill Christmas Lights Featured on National TV

Clifton Mill Christmas Lights Featured on National TV

Video: The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill will be featured on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight" Monday, December 3.

A Lifetime of Ingenuity: Edward A. Deeds

A Lifetime of Ingenuity: Edward A. Deeds

No good Deeds go unnoticed. Recognizing the accomplishments of Colonel Edward Andrew Deeds.

The Amazing History Behind Dayton's Grotto Gardens

The Amazing History Behind Dayton's Grotto Gardens

Its scenic beauty is breathtaking and in the early 1900's was one of the country's leading tourist attractions.

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Enlightens

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Enlightens

Even if you've followed King's career, there is bound to be at least one song, that makes you say, ‘Oh, I didn't know she wrote that.'

Memories of Blue Jacket Drama

Memories of Blue Jacket Drama

Greene County Parks plan to reopen Caesar Ford Park, home to the former Blue Jacket Amphitheater.

Stores Dayton won't forget

Stores Dayton won't forget

Rikes, The Met, Donenfeld's, and now Elder-Beerman, to name just a few local stores that will never be forgotten.

B-17F Memphis Belle on display in Dayton

B-17F Memphis Belle on display in Dayton

The Memphis Belle, a B-17F Flying Fortress, is one of the most famous aircraft in history.

Step Inside the Home of Paul Laurence Dunbar

Step Inside the Home of Paul Laurence Dunbar

Join us as we explore the restored home of the first internationally acclaimed African-American poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar.

Dayton Metro Library Celebrates Black History Month

Dayton Metro Library Celebrates Black History Month

DML has signed on to a statement by the Urban Libraries Council detailing its commitment to achieving racial and social equity by contributing to a more just society.

Magic within the Mead: A Starfield Tribute to the First Flight

Magic within the Mead: A Starfield Tribute to the First Flight

Do you know about the magical connection to the Wright Brothers' first flight, depicted in the spectacular light display above the Mead Theatre?

Historic Callahan Clock to return to Dayton Skyline

Historic Callahan Clock to return to Dayton Skyline

Dayton History has announced the construction of a new tower for the Callahan / Gem City Clock.

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