America 250: Celebrating Troy's Stories
This marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. To celebrate the Semiquincentennial, Troy Historic Village is inviting the community to hear the stories of our past, from the earliest pioneers to our neighbors today. The Village is actively collecting stories from people all ages and backgrounds through various free programs this year.
Keep scrolling to learn how you can get involved!
Visit the Summer Exhibit Learn about Oral Histories History Projects for KidsThere are many ways for Adults and Seniors to commemorate America's 250th with Troy Historic Village. You can sign up online for any of the programs listed below or call 248-524-3570 to register over the phone.
Summer Exhibit: Telling Troy's Stories
June, July, & August
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 10am-3pm
Thursday, 10am-7pm

General Admission Rates Apply (Walk-ins are welcomed and encouraged!)
- THS Members: FREE
- Non-members: $7/Adult
- Children under the age of 18 receive FREE General Admission this summer (June, July, and August) thanks to the Troy Community Foundation.
Explore the Village and the stories across two hundred years of settling Troy. From farmlands to technological business corridors, Troy has attracted new residents throughout time for all sorts of reasons. Alongside historic buildings and stories of pioneers you will find stories from your own neighbors as students and adults across Troy contribute to this exhibit celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Click the button below to learn about free opportunities to view the exhibit.
Visit the Summer ExhibitWhy Troy Oral Histories
By Appointment Only
FREE | Reservation Required
Come tell us about your family’s story! In conjunction with America250, the Village is looking to record the stories of Troy today. Share about why your family moved to Troy, your favorite memory of living in Troy, and more by giving an oral history. The Village is also looking to scan photos of homes, businesses, community events, and Troy families.
Share Your StoryWhy Troy Presentations
June 25, July 23, & August 27 | 5:30-6pm
General Admission Rates Apply
In conjunction with our Summer Exhibit: Telling Troy's Stories, these presentations will discuss the people that settled Troy into the city it is today. Presentation will include excerpts from oral histories and memoirs including recordings from the Why Troy Oral Histories Project. After the presentation, we welcome you to explore the Village to see our temporary summer exhibit.
Learn People's StoriesWatercolor Art Journaling, Part 1
Wednesday June 17 | 5:30-8:30pm
THS Member: $60 | Non-member: $68
Tired of screens, reels, and the chaos of your days? This mindful class is sure to relax you and put you in the moment as you observe your relationship with life through pen and paint. Watercolor teacher and artist Megan Swoyer will demonstrate journaling techniques that you can do during class and in the weeks following class. No experience is necessary; all supplies will be provided including a journal and pen.
Paint Your StoryCollecting Your Memories
Wednesday July 15 | 5:30-7pm
FREE | Registration Requested
What are the different ways you can record your story for future researchers? You might not see your day-to-day life particularly noteworthy, but we promise that it is historic! Come see pieces from our archive that tell the story of someone’s daily life and help paint a picture of what life was like 100 or even 200 years ago. Come get inspired to preserve your story!
Collect Your Story