The quaint town of Oxford, located in Talbot County, Maryland, has a population of less than 1,000. Known as one of the oldest towns in the state, it used to be a busy port city during colonial times thanks to its location on a peninsula on the mouth of the Tred Avon River. Today, Oxford is a haven for boat lovers, with six different marinas.
Oxford’s official founding date is noted as being 1683, although some argue that the town is older. It was a major entry point for shipping during the colonial era, when tobacco was transported from this area. After the departure of the British, Oxford slowly declined in prosperity but was revived again after the Civil War, when the railroad emerged. Oxford is now a quiet seaside town with a charming city center and a haven for boaters.
Many visitors seek out Oxford primarily because of its quiet charm and fresh air. Here, people can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy what a small Victorian town has to offer, which includes no traffic lights! Ocean breezes and clean waters also provide a basis for a range of leisure activities, most centering around boating.
Highlights
Oxford Museum: showcases Oxford’s waterman heritage and history with archives of photographs, painting and artifacts.
Oxford-Bellevue Ferry: is the oldest privately-owned ferry in the US, having started its service in 1683.
Oxford Customs House: is an exact replica of the original Federal Customs House built by Jeremiah Banning, the first Federal customs collector.
Tench Tilghman Monument: is within the grounds of the Oxford cemetery and is a memorial to Colonel Tench Tilghman, George Washington’s aide-de-camp.
Barnaby House: is a private residence and the former home of Captain Richard Barnaby.
Robert Morris Inn: the original home of Robert Morris, the tobacco tycoon, used to be a river view house during the 19th century, but is now a private inn.
The Tred Avon Players: is a non-profit organization established in 1982 which organizes plays and musicals at the Oxford Community Center.