Additional information
by Hunter Gentry (Author), Amy Henderson (Author)
Located primarily in the southernmost regions of Calhoun County with portions in Talladega and Cleburne Counties, Oxford was established on February 7, 1852, by an act of state legislation. Oxford, originally referred to as Lick Skillet, was settled in the 1830s by the Snow and Simmons families. The economy of Oxford for many decades was primarily based on self-sustaining agriculture and trade. During the post-Civil War era, Oxford boomed as a cotton training destination, which assisted in the economic prosperity of cotton production in the 1880s. In the 20th century, Oxford prospered as a cotton manufacturing town with the establishment of Blue Springs Cotton Mill. The business district thrived with numerous drug, dry goods, and mercantile stores. Oxford Lake was the hub of recreation for the county, featuring a dance hall, bowling alley, trolley lines, and boat rides. The people of Oxford deeply believed in family values, education, and faith.
Author Biography
Hunter C. Gentry and Amy Henderson have collaborated to create Images of America: Oxford from collections at the Oxford Public Library, the Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County, and private collections. Gentry and Henderson are both employed by the City of Oxford and have an interest in the preservation and promotion of Oxford's history.
