The history of our community is actually the tale of two villages joined as one. Fairfield began its life in 1816, and the village of Osborn came about in 1851 as the railroad came to town! Both communities grew and prospered until the Great Flood of 1913 struck.
The city of Dayton was devastated by this flood, and consequently a series of 5 dams were built to prevent such a disaster from occurring again. The village of Osborn was in the flood plain created by the Huffman Dam. Many of the grand homes in Osborn were lifted off their foundations and brought north a few miles to save them.
Until 1950 the 2 villages were separate politically. However, the citizens decided to merge and create the city of Fairborn. Tremendous growth has taken place since then Fairborn continues to grow.
Our city offices are brand new, our library was recently renovated, and downtown businesses continue to thrive despite the emergence of a modern mall just a stone throw away in Beavercreek! In fact Fairborn is experiencing growth at unprecedented rates. To the cities east along the 675 corridor, along Col. Glenn Highway near WSU, and to the south new housing, industry, and stores seem to pop up every month!
From a personal view, you will find very few communities where all the neighborhoods are as clean and free from crime as in Fairborn. Here, we feel safe to walk the streets at nights, and neighbors still know each other and communicate.
Our school system is strong, as I can attest with both of my 2 children attending school here. Five Points Elementary is the largest primary school in the state of Ohio. Wright State is situated on the south side of our town, on Col. Glenn Highway. With almost 20,000 students the school has grown from a few buildings in the late 60's.
With a big town flavor, great geographical position within the state of Ohio, great schools, and one of the worlds greatest technology centers at its doorsteps, Fairborn is in a enviable situation. Wright Patterson AFB is not likely to ever close and being a Major Command Headquarters continued growth can be expected even in these times of federal cutbacks.
You can never say there is nothing to do here! Dayton is 10 miles away, and both Columbus and Cincinnati are a short hours drive away. If you haven't been home lately, stop by and visit us! If you are thinking of coming here you can't go wrong with this clean, safe, and hospitable city!
