Fostoria is an American city in Seneca County, Ohio, United States. The population was 13,441 at the 2020 census. Fostoria is named after Foster Rawson, a wealthy local farmer. The city is located about 40 miles south of Toledo and 12 miles north of Tiffin. Fostoria was a significant railroad junction, earning the nickname "The Iron City" for its railroad industry. Today, the city boasts various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.
The mayor of Fostoria is Eric Keck, and the city has a council-manager government. Fostoria's economy is supported by local businesses, including Fostoria Metal Products, Fostoria Forest, Kokosing Industrial, and Greif. A new housing subdivision is being constructed, and the city has partnered with Tiffin and Seneca County to encourage Fostorians to shop locally.
Fostoria is known for its railroad history and was once home to the Fostoria ChooChoo, a dinner train that ran from North Baltimore to Fostoria, but it is no longer in operation. However, the city is still home to the Fostoria Iron Triangle Railroad Park, which features railroad artifacts. Another popular local attraction is the Fostoria Country Club, which features an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, banquet services, and pro shop. The city also hosts the Fostoria Independence Day Celebration, previously known as Fostoria Railroad Week. Other notable attractions in the city include the Fostoria Historical Society & Museum, Fostoria Art Council Gallery, andthe Ricker Limestone & Tool Museum.
Fostoria has a diverse population with a mix of German and Irish ancestry. According to the US Census, the city has a population of 13,441,872, with 90.5% white, 6.7% black, and 0.3 Asian. The median age is 38.4, and the median household income is $38,543. Fostoria is home to the Fostoria City Schools, a public school district that serves Fostoria and the surrounding areas. The district operates two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school, and features a performing arts center. The city also has several churches and the Fostoria Public Library.
The city of Fostoria has a rich history, including the construction of the Fostoria Metal Products company, which employed many residents and provided economic growth. However, the factory also caused air pollution, and Environmental Protection Agency and other state and federal agencies were involved in the cleanup. In 2013, the EPA began a cleanup project, but the site remains a risk to citizens' health and the environment, and there is still more work to be done.
The city has a mayor, Eric Keck, two council members, Frank Snay and Laura Neikirk, and three councilmen, Kerry A. Parsons, Tom S. Rode, and James M. Parcher. The local newspaper, The Fostoria Focus, provides news and information about the city. In conclusion, Fostoria is a small city in northwest Ohio with a population of 13,441. It has a rich history, diverse culture, and a variety of local attractions. The city has a strong economy, a mayor and council-manager government, and a diverse population. However, it has also faced environmental challenges due to industrial pollution.