WELCOME to the OXFORD MUSEUM

The Oxford Museum began in 1964 with the finding of 18th and 19th century bottles and pottery shards. From these first artifacts has evolved a rare mosaic depicting Oxford's past. As such, the museum has become a valuable part of the under-standing of the more than 325 years of Oxford history. Its exhibits are exclusively devoted to its people, their way of life, and their contribution to our country since the 1600s. We are proud of our many treasures including old photographs, clothing, antique engines, boat building tools, models, paintings, furniture, documents, war items, Indian items, pottery, china and waterman tools.

Local families have been generous in sharing family treasures with the Museum, thereby allowing others to learn more about our rich heritage. The Oxford Museum is now becoming a special destination for school groups, tourist groups, research teams, and families looking for enriched outings in an historic setting such as Oxford.

This Oyster Clock is a rare example of early 20th Century folk art. Note the large shells which comprise the main body of the timepiece. Oysters of
this size are no longer found in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay as pollution and over-harvesting decimated the population in the latter part of the 19th century.

A graceful Sunderland pink lustre tea pot and handleless cup and saucer owned by Harriet Harrington, January 9, 1808 to November 18, 1881.

Robert Morris settled in Oxford in 1738 to manage the warehouse store of the Liverpool trading firm of Foster Cunliff. Under Morris, Oxford became the principal wholesale trading center of the entire upper Chesapeake. He is the father of Robert Morris Jr. signer of the Declaration of Independence and best known for being the financier of the Revolution.

The skipjack was introduced to the Chesapeake Bay in the latter part of the 19th century and was the preferred craft for dredging oysters. Many called Oxford home port. A small replica is on display.


 

This colorful Japanese motif bowl
dates to the early 18th century,
c. 1720.

The Museum's French-made 4th
order fresnel lens welcomes visitors to the Museum.
Crocks from the
Seth Dry Goods Store