May 7, 2007
Oxford Day on the Eastern Shore
A sleepy colonial village wakes up
On fourth Saturday of April, the town of Oxford, Maryland on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay holds its popular “Oxford Days,” celebrating the history
and lifestyle of a town that is right out of a picture history book. Founded in 1694, Oxford is situated on the Tred Avon River next to the Chesapeake Bay. It was an important seaport for British goods entering the Colonies up until 1780. After the American Revolution, it reverted to a fishing village through the middle of the 20th century. Oxford is relaxed and tranquil, and it looks like a typical village in the English countryside. Most of the town and the waterfront can be seen on foot by strolling on old brick walks under the canopies of stately trees.
and lifestyle of a town that is right out of a picture history book. Founded in 1694, Oxford is situated on the Tred Avon River next to the Chesapeake Bay. It was an important seaport for British goods entering the Colonies up until 1780. After the American Revolution, it reverted to a fishing village through the middle of the 20th century. Oxford is relaxed and tranquil, and it looks like a typical village in the English countryside. Most of the town and the waterfront can be seen on foot by strolling on old brick walks under the canopies of stately trees.This is one of Penny’s favorite weekends. She belongs to a group of YaYa sisters who spend
that weekend enjoying the festivities in Oxford, starting with the dog walk, one of several benefit events which support Breast Cancer research. The rest of the day is filled with a parade, music, colorful displays and trying to keep from over-eating the pit beef, barbecue sandwiches and crab cakes. No one can resist the cake tables as each local church competes to produce the most delicious desserts in the area. At the end of the day you may find it hard to leave the quiet charm beside the broad expanse of the Tred Avon River and suddenly realize that Oxford is a dream and a reality.
that weekend enjoying the festivities in Oxford, starting with the dog walk, one of several benefit events which support Breast Cancer research. The rest of the day is filled with a parade, music, colorful displays and trying to keep from over-eating the pit beef, barbecue sandwiches and crab cakes. No one can resist the cake tables as each local church competes to produce the most delicious desserts in the area. At the end of the day you may find it hard to leave the quiet charm beside the broad expanse of the Tred Avon River and suddenly realize that Oxford is a dream and a reality.
In an effort to determine which qualities an American Dreamtown should have, Bizjournals looked for metropolitan areas which have a small diverse community with a strong local economy, light traffic, a well educated population, a moderate cost of living and access to a large metropolitan area. Easton, Maryland received the fourth highest marks as the best place to live in America.
as well as its rich colonial legacy. A walk through the town will introduce you to many charming shops, beautiful shade trees, gardens and brick walls, along with a delightful blend of old buildings and homes. Modern Easton is an arts and cultural center, popular for its museums, art galleries, antique stores, unique gift shops, and a performing arts center, the Avalon Theater. It is the hub of activity amongst the neighboring communities along the magnificent Miles and Tred Avon Rivers.