Oxford, Alabama

About the time the Creek Indians were departing from this area in 1832-1833, Sylvanus Simmons and Dudley Snow homesteaded lands in the newly created Benton County. The settlement was called “Lickskillet”. The state legislature first incorporated the town with the name Oxford in 1852. By 1860 Oxford was linked to the outer world via the Alabama and Tennessee Rivers Railroad. Oxford became active as cotton and trading center on the eve of the Civil War. The presence of charcoal iron furnace attracted federal troops to the area in 1865 when they destroyed the furnace and much of the town. Despite the setbacks of the war, Oxford rebuilt, grew and prospered.

Oxford is known as one of Calhoun County's fastest growing residential and commercial cities. It stretches across the county line into neighboring Talladega County. This unique location allows Oxford to have excellent access to the resources in both counties.

Oxford officials have adopted a progressive attitude, implementing a number of city improvements to meet the demands of a growing population, including the construction of a new City Hall and public library. The investment in Oxford's facilities and amenities is part of an ongoing effort to be recognized as "The Crossroads and Retail Capital of Calhoun County," as well as a safe and comfortable place to raise a family. Sites include the Oxford Civic Center and sport complex at Oxford Lake and the new 10.4 million dollar Oxford Performing Arts Center, housing a 1,130 seat auditorium. For more information, visit www.oxfordalabama.org.

Oxford Performing Arts Center

100 Choccolocco Street, Oxford, 256-241-3322

This performance and concert venue accommodates 1,130 seats in the middle of historic downtown Oxford. With additions to the former historic school and city hall facility, this venue now houses state-of-the-art lighting and sound, an orchestra pit, dressing rooms, and a proscenium stage with large wing space and storage. This venue is available for rental and hosts many performance and concerts throughout the year. For more information, visit www.oxforpac.org.

Oxford Lake and Civic Center – Coldwater Covered Bridge

401 McCullars Lane, Oxford, 256-831-2660

Stretch your legs on this paved and gravel track around the lake or spread out a picnic for the whole family, while the kids play on the adventure park playground. This area also houses tennis courts, a swimming pool, baseball complex, indoor basketball courts, a newly renovated and expanded civic center space and more. It is also home to one of Alabama’s oldest remaining covered bridges, moved from Coldwater Creek to Oxford Lake and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Cider Ridge Golf Course

200 Apple Blossom Way, Oxford, 256-831-7222

This 18 hole par 72 course is quite mountainous and challenging with is terrain. The breathtaking views and scenery provide a beautiful backdrop to each round. For more information, visit www.ciderridgegolf.com.

Quintard Mall

700 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-831-4180

This shopping center offers a great selection of department and specialty stores, with a full food court and movie theater. For more information, visit www.shopquintardmall.com.