Wright Library recognizes that our local history is rich with stories about our community that may not be found in text books or national museums. Information which is one day making headlines, is often diminished or forgotten over time.

To ensure that these stories are saved and made available to future generations, Wright Library is host to a local history collection of research materials and partners with other organizations to bring you programs for adults and youth.

Cryptology and Codebreakers Speaker Series

WWII was largely impacted by the efforts of Dayton Codebreakers, a discovery that likely shortened the war and saved hundreds of lives. Wright Library has partnered with the National Cryptologic Museum, a division of the National Security Agency, to bring this monumental achievement to light after decades of being hidden under secrecy.

• January 16, 2025 - Battle of Codes 
• March 19, 2025 - Sharing the Burden
• May 8, 2025 - Solving the Enigma

With efforts of the local citizens group, Oakwood Unsung Heroes, May has been declared Codebreakers Month by the City of Oakwood. Visit the Oakwood Unsung Heroes website to learn more about Joe Desch and his role in WWII Codebreaking.

Past Events:  American Secrets: Cryptology through History

Far Hills Speaker Series

• Sunday, September 15, 2 p.m. - Victory in the Pacific: Local Veterans and their Role in WWII, presented by Ken Serey
• Sunday, October 20, 2 p.m. - Oakwood Notables in Woodland Cemetery, presented by David Schmidt 
• Sunday, November 17, 2 p.m. - Lucky Eddie: The Life, Times and Family of Dayton US Congressman Edward G. Breen, presented by Edward F. Breen

Civil War Speaker Series

Dayton, Ohio was involved in the Civil War in several ways, including the organization of regiments, the creation of a monument, and the establishment of a National Home for disabled soldiers. Wright Library has partnered with the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War and the Miami Valley Civil War Round Table to bring you a series of presentations highlighting Dayton's place in the Civil War.

• Thursday, September 19, 7 p.m. - Against All Odds: Lincoln and the Lincoln Presidency, presented by Ron Helms
• Thursday, October 17, 7 p.m. - Ghosts of Gettysburg, presented by Allan Howey
• Thursday, November 21, 7 p.m. - A Thriving Lincoln Legacy: Dayton Soldier’s Home & Cemetery, presented by Clyde Hughes

History Collection

• Visit the Wright Library Local History Section on the Main Floor for books, newsletters, and other unique ephemera dedicated to preserving the history of Oakwood and Dayton. Because of the unique nature of these materials, many cannot be checked out of the library. Ask a librarian for assistance viewing these materials on-site.
• Historical books in the Wright Library Catalog.
• Wright Library has historical titles in Movies and Other Media.
• Researchers, with your Wright Library card, you can gain access to online research materials including Ancestry, African-American Heritage, Heritage Quest, Ohio History, Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps, and more.