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Historic Main Street Oxford (HMSO) is being celebrated on its 10th anniversary with national plaudits for its ongoing and successful efforts to revitalize downtown Oxford.

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers honored Historic Main Street Oxford’s accomplishments by placing a statement into the Congressional Record of June 11, 2024.

“For nearly a decade, Historic Main Street Oxford has been a beacon of progress and revitalization in Northeast Alabama, embodying the principles and practices that make our communities thrive,” Rogers’ Congressional Record statement reads. “HMSO stands as a model of success-based economic and community development. Its efforts have transformed downtown Oxford into a vibrant hub of activity and culture, reflecting the hard work and dedication of its leaders and volunteers.”

A framed copy of the Congressional Record was presented to HMSO Director Hunter Gentry, Mayor Alton Craft, members of the city council, and members of the HMSO Board of Advisors by Shea Snider Miller, director of community relations for Rep. Rogers, during a ceremony at City Hall on Monday, August 12.

Established by the Oxford City Council on July 22, 2014, Historic Downtown Oxford now plays host to more than 60 businesses and organizations including arts and entertainment; a variety of dining choices; and professional services. It has done this while utilizing unique ways to restore and remember the historic nature of downtown structures.

HMSO has also established events that have become Oxford traditions including Market on Main, Second Friday on Main, Main Street Rivalry 5K, Trick-or-Treat on Main, and Historic Walking Tours on Main.

HMSO also provides groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings, monthly merchants’ meetings, and business development workshops. A more detailed 10-year report can be found here.

“Through the efforts of director Hunter Gentry, the HMSO Advisory Board of Directors, the City Council, and downtown businesses, this program has revitalized our downtown area by making it once again a centerpiece of economic development, historic preservation, and community life,” said Mayor Craft. “I and the City Council are appreciative of Historic Main Street Oxford proving everything old can be new - and even better - again.”

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