Why Troy Oral Histories

Why Troy Oral Histories

Every Tuesday in 2026 from 1:00pm-3:00pm (and by appointment)
FREE Reservation Required | All Ages

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.

Questions? Call 248-524-3570 or email info@thvmail.org.

Telling Troy’s Story and related programs are made possible with support from America250MI.

What to Expect

Before your oral history, you should click here to review our "Interview Information and Procedure" document.

The first step is to fill out your Biographical Form. Scroll down or click here to fill this form out online. You can also click here for a printable form to mail/drop off at the Village located at 60 W. Wattles Rd., Troy, MI 48098 or email to apd@thvmail.org.

After we get your Biographical Form, someone will reach out to you to schedule your interview. Our preferred time is Tuesday afternoons, but we will work with you to find a time that fits your schedule.

Your oral history may take up to 2 hours and will take place in the Niles-Barnard House (the large white house facing Wattles). When you arrive, you will sign the "Release Form for Oral History Interview Recordings." Your oral history will be recorded. A Village staff person will conduct your interview and will run the recording equipment.

A transcript of your oral history will be created, and you will have the opportunity to review it. After you review the transcript, your oral history will be published based the preference you selected in your release form.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have accessibility questions, please click here to visit our accessibility page or contact us at info@thvmail.org and we will be happy to help!

• Do I need to register in advance? Yes! Oral Histories will only be recorded by appointment and with the completion of the "Biographical Form."
• Do I need to bring anything? No, but you may bring photos or documents that help tell your story. We would be happy to scan these documents to attached to your published oral history or add to our collection as a digital file (you keep the original!).
• Who will be able to access my published oral history? The depends on what you want. The most restricted access involves keep you anonymous and only allowing our staff to access your interview. The most unrestricted access involves posting your video on YouTube to have it on our website. Please ask any questions you have about access before, during, or after your interview.
• Are there any risks involved with giving an oral history? There are no physical risks to giving an oral history. However, they can be quite emotional. Therefore, you are free to refuse to answer any questions and should let us know if there are any topics you do not wish to discuss.
• What happens if I’m running late? Should I still come? We suggest giving us a call at 248-524-3570 to let us know you are running late. At that time, we will determine if we need to reschedule your interview.
• Who will conduct my interview? A staff member from the Village will conduct your interview. You may request a specific staff member.
• Is this event held rain or shine? Yes, your interview will be held rain or shine as it takes places indoors. In cases of severe weather, we will reschedule your interview
• Will I be able to get around easily using my wheelchair or walker? Yes! The Village offers three accessible parking spaces in our west parking lot. The Niles-Barnard House has a wheelchair-accessible entryway, is connected to the parking lot by a paved pathway, and has wheelchair-accessible restrooms. For more information, please contact us at info@thvmail.org.
• Will food or drink be available? Yes, a bottle of water will be provided for you. Troy Historic Village does not sell food, nor do we have water fountains. You are welcome to bring your own bottle of water and snacks are allowed for medical reasons. Please note we are a peanut free facility.
• Can I bring my dog? Only service animals are allowed at the Village. We strive to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, so please leave your pets at home.

Parking & Directions

Troy Historic Village is located at 60 W. Wattles Road, Troy MI 48098 (northwest corner of Wattles and Livernois). There are two parking lots at the Village and you should park in the larger lot on the west side. After you park, head inside the Niles-Barnard House (the large white house) to check-in.