If you were living in this area in 1846 and someone asked you where you lived, you would have replied; "Four Mile". That is because this land, purchased by Anthony Brown, was a common stopping place for wagons travelling the path that is now called Madison Road.

If you were living in this area in in 1853 and someone asked the same question of you, you would have replied; "Shusterville". That is because a fellow by the name of Paul Shuster purchased addtional land for development. It was Mr. Shuster who coined the name "Oakley" - but it wasn't until the railroad established a stop here that the name Oakley became commonly embraced.

Oakley's initial claim to fame was the Oakley Race Course. This provided one of the best venues in the entire region to enjoy thoroughbred horse racing. Over time, the racetrack was developed as housing for workers of the Cincinnati Milling Machine, (now called Cincinnati Milacron) at one time, one of Cincinnati's largest employers.

A large portion of Oakley's housing stock is smaller than surrounding neighborhoods such as Hyde Park and Norwood. But this community has been experiencing a fantastic boom in recent years. The primary reason is location! Oakley is so conveniently located to all the finest restaurants and shopping. Residents have obvious pride in their homes.

Like Hyde Park and Mount Lookout, Oakley has it's own central square. Oakley Square is the heart and soul of this highly livable community. A short walk from this square, one can find any number of excellent eaterys and unique shopping. Some restaurants include:
BOCA
Beluga - new Asian Cuisine
Dewey's Pizza

You can't talk about Oakley without mentioning a couple of iconic Cincinnati landmarks.

1) The 20th Century Theatre. Years ago, the hub of activity in Oakley would have revolved around the movie theatre; 20th Century Theatre. Built in 1941 with an impressive tower that rises over 70' above the square, this theatre makes a statement even grander than the dozens of tall Gingko trees occupying the actual Square. The theatre was threatened for demolition, like so many architectural treasures, until purchased by Mike Belmont, who refurbished the building. It now offers an excellent venue for remarkable talents.

 2) Aglamesis Brothers Ice Cream Parlor & Candy Shoppe. Founded in Norwood in 1908, just 4 years later, they expanded to Oakley. Aglamesis is a taste treasure in Cincinnati. This family business creates some of the tastiest ice cream and candy to be found!

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