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Fostoria, OH

Frequently asked questions

Fostoria, OH

Fostoria is a city located at the convergence of Hancock, Seneca, and Wood counties in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Ohio. The population was 13,046 at the 2020 Census, slightly down from 13,441 at the 2010 Census. It is approximately 40 miles (64 km) south of Toledo and 90 miles (140 km) north of Columbus. The community grew substantially during the end of the 19th century, coinciding with the northwest Ohio gas boom. Typical of Rust Belt cities, Fostoria peaked in size in 1970.

Fostoria was a major site for the glass industry, having over a dozen glass factories during the end of the 19th century. As the area's gas supply became depleted, many of the factories closed or moved. The city is now known for its railroads, as approximately 100 trains pass through the city each day. As a result, the city is often visited by railfans, hosted by a railroad viewing park.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.77 square miles (20.12 km²), of which 7.55 square miles (19.55 km²) is land and 0.22 square miles (0.57 km²) is water.

Fostoria was created in 1854 with the merger of the communities of Rome and Risdon. The combination of both communities' Methodist churches, on land donated by Charles W. Foster, led to the merger. To show their appreciation for Mr. Foster's generosity, the new community was named Fostoria. Charles W. Foster's son, Charles, became one of Fostoria's most famous citizens—becoming the 35th governor of Ohio and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Benjamin Harrison. 

Fostoria is known for its glass heritage and railroads: two CSX main lines and one NS main line intersect in downtown Fostoria, an area called the "Iron Triangle." A natural gas boom in the 1880s, the railroad lines, and recruiting efforts by the community caused Fostoria to become home to numerous glass factories, including the Mambourg Glass Company (the city's first glass factory), the Fostoria Glass Company, the Seneca Glass Company, the Novelty Glass Company, and others.

Although the boom in gas and glass is long over, railroads continue to be important to the community. More than 100 trains pass through Fostoria each day. The Fostoria Railroad Preservation Society, aided by a $815,760 grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation, completed a train viewing park in 2013 to help capitalize on the thousands of railfans who visit yearly.

Fostoria places a significant emphasis on health and wellness, with several healthcare facilities serving the needs of residents. The Fostoria Community Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and outpatient services. The hospital is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Fostoria Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Nutrition and Fitness by Brett and YMCA. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Fostoria, such as the Highline Trail and Lake Lamberjack Reservoir. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Fostoria, OH are Iron Triangle Rail Park, Glass Heritage Gallery, and Fruth Wetland Nature Preserve.

Population: 13,063 (2024). ZIP code: 44830. Area codes: 419, 567. Elevation: 781 ft (238 m). Area: 7.79 sq mi (20.18 km²).

FAQs

What is Fostoria, OH famous for?

Fostoria is known for its glass heritage and railroads: two CSX main lines and one NS main line intersect in downtown Fostoria, an area called the "Iron Triangle." A natural gas boom in the 1880s, the railroad lines, and recruiting efforts by the community caused Fostoria to become home to numerous glass factories, including the Mambourg Glass Company (the city's first glass factory), the Fostoria Glass Company, the Seneca Glass Company, the Novelty Glass Company, and others.

What is the crime rate in Fostoria, OH?

Fostoria has an overall crime rate of 12 per 1,000 residents, making the crime rate here near the average for all cities and towns of all sizes in America. According to our analysis of FBI crime data, your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Fostoria is 1 in 84. This statistic provides insight into the safety and security of the community, helping residents and visitors alike understand the potential risks associated with living or spending time in Fostoria.

What is the poverty rate in Fostoria, OH?

In 2022, the median household income of Fostoria households was $53,145. Fostoria households made slightly more than Jewett households ($53,068) and Xenia households ($53,041). However, 15.7% of Fostoria families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Fostoria

Fostoria Community Hospital 

Fostoria Parks and Recreation Department 

Nutrition and Fitness by Brett 

YMCA

Highline Trail 

Lake Lamberjack Reservoir

Iron Triangle Rail Park

Glass Heritage Gallery

Fruth Wetland Nature Preserve

Neighborhoodscout

Ohio Demographics

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