Troy, MO
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Troy is a city in Lincoln County, Missouri, United States. It is the county seat of Lincoln County and an exurb of St. Louis, offering a blend of historic charm and access to outdoor recreation.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Troy, Missouri .
- Administrative Role: Troy is the county seat of Lincoln County, Missouri . As the county seat, it is the administrative center for the county government.
- Country and Region: The city is located in the state of Missouri in the United States. It is part of the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area, functioning as an exurb of the larger city of St. Louis . The region is known for its rolling hills, rivers, and as a gateway to the Missouri Ozarks.
Founding Date and Age
- Year Founded: Troy was platted (laid out) in 1819 .
- Age: The city is over 205 years old (based on its 1819 founding).
- Founding and Name: The city was founded by early settlers Deacon Cottle and Zadock Woods . The name "Troy" is believed to be a transfer from either Troy, New York, or Troy, Vermont . An early variant name for the settlement was "Woods Fort" .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: Latitude: 38.9708° N, Longitude: -90.9714° W .
- Location: Troy is located two miles west of the Cuivre River in eastern Missouri . It is situated approximately 50 miles northwest of St. Louis.
- Elevation: The elevation of the city center is approximately 165 meters (541 feet) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: Troy is a small city and county seat, characteristic of a Midwestern town that has grown into an exurban center.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Troy functions primarily as an administrative center (as the county seat) and a regional commercial hub for the surrounding rural and exurban areas . Its economy is supported by local government, education (as part of the Lincoln County R-III School District), healthcare, and small businesses serving the community . Due to its proximity to Cuivre River State Park, it also sees some tourism related to outdoor recreation .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Troy was 12,686 .
- Population Class: Troy is a small city (under 50,000 residents). It has experienced significant growth, more than doubling its population since the year 2000 .
- Demographic Note: The city has a diverse age range, with a median age of 34.1, and is predominantly white (87.1% as of 2020), with growing Hispanic or Latino (5.1%) and African American (2.96%) communities .
"City's Calling Card" (Brief)
Troy, Missouri, is a historic county seat that serves as the gateway to the sprawling Cuivre River State Park, one of Missouri's largest state parks . Visitors and residents are drawn to its charming, nationally recognized Downtown Troy Historic District and the immediate access to hiking, camping, and fishing in the natural beauty of the Cuivre River valley, all within the St. Louis metropolitan area .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
Troy is not located in a mountainous region. The terrain consists of rolling hills and river valleys, characteristic of the Lincoln Hills region of Missouri. For significant mountain recreation, residents travel to the Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri.
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- Cuivre River: The primary river associated with Troy is the Cuivre River . It flows approximately two miles east of the city and is a right tributary of the Mississippi River. The river provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking .
- Cuivre River State Park Lakes: Within the nearby Cuivre River State Park, there are man-made lakes, including the 55-acre Lake Lincoln, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating .
Beaches and Coastlines
As an inland city, Troy has no natural coastline or ocean beaches. However, recreational swimming is available during the summer at the beach at Lake Lincoln within Cuivre River State Park .
Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes
There are no deserts or canyons in the immediate vicinity of Troy.
National and State Parks
- Cuivre River State Park: This is the most significant natural landmark in the area, located just three miles northeast of Troy, across the Cuivre River valley . It is one of the largest of Missouri's state parks . The park encompasses over 6,300 acres and features more than 40 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through forests, hills, and prairies . It offers camping, a swimming beach at Lake Lincoln, and opportunities for wildlife viewing . Its elevation ranges up to 658 feet .
Islands and Archipelagos
There are no islands associated with the city of Troy.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Troy has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons . It features hot, humid summers and cold winters with some snowfall. The city experiences a significant amount of cloud cover, especially in the winter months .
Average Temperatures by Month
The data below is based on average high and low temperatures for Troy :
January: High 4°C (39°F), Low -5°C (23°F)
February: High 7°C (45°F), Low -3°C (27°F)
March: High 13°C (55°F), Low 3°C (37°F)
April: High 20°C (68°F), Low 8°C (46°F)
May: High 24°C (75°F), Low 13°C (55°F)
June: High 29°C (84°F), Low 18°C (64°F)
July: High 31°C (88°F), Low 20°C (68°F)
August: High 30°C (86°F), Low 19°C (66°F)
September: High 26°C (79°F), Low 14°C (57°F)
October: High 20°C (68°F), Low 8°C (46°F)
November: High 13°C (55°F), Low 3°C (37°F)
December: High 6°C (43°F), Low -2°C (28°F)
Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 31°C (88°F) .
Coldest Month: January, with an average low of -5°C (23°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: Approximately 988 mm (39 inches) to 1016 mm (40 inches), spread relatively evenly throughout the year .
- Wettest Month: May, with an average of 104 mm (4.1 inches) of rain .
- Driest Month: January, with an average of 32 mm (1.3 inches) of rain .
- Snowfall: Snow is common in winter, with January seeing the most snowfall, averaging 89 mm (3.5 inches) .
- Average Humidity: Humidity levels are high, especially in summer, averaging around 82% annually . Summers are described as "muggy" and "oppressive," with July having about 21 days of significant humidity .
Sunny Days and UV Index
- Cloud Cover: The sunniest and clearest month is August, with about 69% of the sky being clear . The cloudiest month is February.
- Daylight: The longest days are in June, with nearly 15 hours of daylight .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Troy for outdoor activities is from late May through late September, based on favorable weather for travel and recreation .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up considerably, from mild to pleasantly warm. This is the wettest time of year, especially in May, which helps green the landscape.
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot, humid, and the most uncomfortable time of year for some. July is the hottest and most humid month. However, this is also the peak time for swimming, boating, and camping at Cuivre River State Park.
- Fall (September-November): Autumn sees temperatures cooling down to comfortable levels, with decreasing rainfall. September is still pleasant, and by October and November, the weather is crisp and cool, ideal for hiking.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold with regular snowfall. Daytime highs are often just above freezing, and nights are below freezing. This season is best for indoor activities.
Landmarks
[Downtown Troy Historic District]
- Full Name: Downtown Troy Historic District .
- Year Listed/Recognition: Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013 .
- Description: This historic district encompasses the heart of Troy's central business district and surrounding residential areas. It includes 39 contributing buildings, one contributing site, and two contributing structures, representing the city's architectural development from about 1832 to 1966 .
- Architectural Styles: The district features a variety of architectural styles, including Late Victorian, 19th and 20th Century Revivals, and the Modern Movement .
- Notable Buildings: Key structures within the district include the historic Lincoln County Courthouse (1869–1870) , the Sherman Cottle House (1832), the old Lincoln County Jail/Jailer's House (1876), and the Sacred Heart Catholic Church (1954) .
- Location: The district is roughly bounded by Annie Ave., 2nd, Marble & Court Streets .
[Lincoln County Courthouse]
- Full Name: Lincoln County Courthouse .
- Year Built: The current courthouse was built in 1869–1870 . It is a contributing building within the Downtown Troy Historic District.
- Description: Serving as the seat of Lincoln County government for over 150 years, this historic courthouse is a central landmark in Troy. It represents the city's long-standing role as the county's administrative hub.
- Architectural Style: The courthouse is a representative example of 19th-century civic architecture.
- Location: It is located within the Downtown Troy Historic District on Court Street.
[Cuivre River State Park]
- Full Name: Cuivre River State Park .
- Distance from City: The park is located approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) northeast of Troy .
- Description: As one of Missouri's largest state parks, it is a major regional landmark for outdoor recreation. It protects a diverse landscape of forests, hills, and prairies along the Cuivre River.
- Key Features: The park features over 40 miles of trails, campgrounds, and the 55-acre Lake Lincoln with a swimming beach . It is a premier destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding, managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
- Significance: Its proximity makes it a natural extension of Troy's community space and a major draw for visitors to the area .
[Fort Cap au Gris]
- Full Name: Fort Cap au Gris .
- Year Built: The fortification was built near Troy in 1814 .
- Description: This was a historic fortification constructed during the War of 1812. It represents the area's early frontier history and the need for defense during that period.
- Status: It is a significant historic site, though it is not an intact structure open for visitation in the same way as a building.
Transport
Major Airports
- Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL): This is the primary airport serving the region . It is located approximately 68 km (42 miles) southeast of Troy. The airport is a major hub offering numerous domestic and some international flights. Travelers can reach Troy from the airport via rental car, taxi, or ride-sharing services, using I-70 and I-64/US-61.
Other Airports
For general aviation, there is the Troy-Flynn Memorial Airport (K8M5) , a small public-use airport located just north of the city, serving private and smaller aircraft.
Major Railway Stations
Troy does not have passenger rail service. The nearest Amtrak stations are in St. Louis (Gateway Station) or Kirkwood, Missouri, which serve long-distance trains like the Missouri River Runner, Lincoln Service, and Texas Eagle.
Major Highways and Roads
- U.S. Route 61 (US 61): This major four-lane highway passes along the east side of the city, providing a direct route south to the St. Louis area and north through Missouri, Iowa, and Minnesota .
- Missouri Route 47: This state highway runs through the north side of Troy, connecting it to other communities in eastern Missouri, such as Warrenton to the southwest and Winfield to the east .
Public Transportation System
Troy is primarily car-dependent. There is no local public transit system like a city bus or subway. However, intercity bus service is available.
- Intercity Bus Service: Jefferson Lines provides bus service to Troy . The main bus station is located at 231 State HWY 47 . This service connects Troy to a network of other cities, providing an option for long-distance ground travel without a car. There are approximately 8 bus trips per day serving the city .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Troy University
While the city of Troy, Missouri is a small community, it is located within a reasonable distance of several higher education institutions. The most prominent university associated with the name "Troy" is Troy University (TROY) , though it's important to note that its main campus is located in Troy, Alabama, not Missouri . TROY is a public university founded in 1887 and is known for its strong programs in health sciences, business, and education, with a significant online presence and campuses across Alabama and at support sites worldwide . For residents of Troy, Missouri, closer options for higher education include Lindenwood University in St. Charles, the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), and Washington University in St. Louis, all located approximately 50-60 miles away in the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Healthcare Institutions
Nearby Medical Centers in the St. Louis Region
Troy, Missouri, is a smaller city, and its local healthcare facilities are primarily community-based. For specialized or advanced medical care, residents have access to the extensive medical resources in the nearby St. Louis metropolitan area, which is about 50-60 miles to the east. This region is home to several world-renowned medical institutions. While not located within Troy's city limits, these centers serve as the primary healthcare destination for advanced treatment:
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital: A major teaching hospital and one of the largest private medical centers in the United States. It is consistently ranked among the nation's best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and is affiliated with the Washington University School of Medicine. It is particularly well-known for its programs in cardiology, cancer care, neurology, and organ transplantation.
- St. Louis Children's Hospital: A top-ranked pediatric hospital nationally, offering comprehensive care for children in every medical specialty. It is also affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine.
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis: A large Catholic hospital and part of the Mercy health system, known for its heart center, cancer care, and being a level I trauma center.
For routine medical care and services, Troy residents likely rely on local clinics and the nearby SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - Lake St. Louis, located in the neighboring city of Lake St. Louis, approximately 10-15 miles away.