Snuggled cozily between two forest-laden hills lies the peaceful village of Bay City. To the visitor this little hamlet seems to have been blessed by Nature, as the beautiful Ohio River slowly winds its way through its deep basin in full view. The first settlement in the vicinity of the present village was at the mouth of the Bay creek. This little place was called Bay Field, no doubt, receiving its name from the creek upon whose banks it was situated. Bay Field was the first settlement within miles of the present village and contained one store. Later, however, through the influence of the Murphy heirs, who were to become the sole owners of the town, the village of Bay City was established. The location was about one-fourth mile south of the one store at Bay Field, and it is significant to note, this settlement also annexed the "Bay" to its name.
Like most river towns, Bay City has seen much river traffic. In the early days it was no uncommon sight to see loads of wheat and potatoes waiting patiently for their turn to be unloaded on the levee at the water's edge. Even before the days of the great river traffic, Bay City was a center for the pioneers who traveled by means of the ox cart and slept by camp-fires to keep the wolves and other animals away. Yes, this little village has seen many trail blazers.
The first merchant in Bay Field was Dyer; this was in 1863. Murphy and Hatton were the first mentioned here. They also had lots laid out for the village of Bay City. This was about seventy years ago. Bill Rose was the second merchant, while Bill Rose was the third.
At one time there were seven saloons in Bay City. At present, however, perhaps due to the influence of the Baptist Church, which is very active, there is not a single saloon in the village of Bay City.
Most of the early citizens of Bay City were of Indiana stock. They came to the vicinity before the Civil War and carried with them their stock and even the fruit trees that were to be set out. These early pioneers came down the Ohio river on flat-boats.
Bay City progressed rapidly for awhile, furnishing business enough to sustain six general stores. At present there are two stores, both of which are above the average for country stores. R. C. Davidson and C. R. Weeks are the merchants at the present time.
D. Y. Smiley was a merchant at Bay City thirty-seven years ago, and is now living on a farm near Azotus.
G. B. L. Glass, R. L. Weeks and R. H. Garner were very active business men of this place a number of years ago.

Copied from " Trampe's _ Pope County Historical Review"
This article was written about 1934. Author is unknown.