In July 1984, about a dozen Sikh families from Dayton, Beavercreek and Springfield got together to form Sikh Society of Dayton. The Gurdwara began as a monthly prayer services at various locations – Libraries, Schools for almost 2 years. About 2 years later, the community started to rent the first floor of the previous location of the Gurdwara at 1038 Forest Drive, Beavercreek once a month for $25. Since, no provision of preparing Langar was available at the premises; Sangat members brought Langar from home. In Dec 1994, the Gurdwara building was purchased and Sangat continued to have monthly Divan.
Renovation and remodeling of the second floor of the building started in July 1998. Renovation also included installing new roof and building a new entrance. In October 1999, Sangat started using the second floor for monthly Divan and first floor became the Langar hall. In June 2000, the smaller room on second floor was made into “Sukh-aasan Room” and bi-monthly Divan (every 2nd and 4th Sunday) started. With Waheguru’s grace, weekly Divan commenced in 2006.
In 1985, classes at Gurdwara Sahib were started to teach Sikh youth and children Kirtan, Punjabi language, Sikh religion and history. In early to late 90s there were about 30 children in the class. Later on, Sikh culture, tradition and language were made a part of the curriculum. Sangat members started the Sunday Divan by reciting Asa Di Var followed by Gurbani Kirtan sung by our children and adults. These kids participated in youth symposiums, Kirtan competitions and Sikh camps. Later on several old kids moved out of Dayton out of Dayton to pursue further education.
Gurdwara Diwan is now held every Sunday at a new location close to the old Gurdwara Sahib at 925 Factory Road, Beavercreek, OH, 45434. The congregation (Divan) begins at 10:00am with Sukhmani Sahib Path followed by an hour of Shabad Kirtan by the kids, youth and adults. Langar meals (community kitchen) is served at 12:30pm.
