Oxford, AL — Spring Street Station, the newest addition to downtown Oxford’s restaurant and event scene, will officially open its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, December 4, at 10:30 a.m. Located at 50 Spring Street, this event celebrates the restoration of the 140-year-old Oxford Depot, a landmark with deep roots in the city’s history.
Originally constructed in 1884 by the East Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia Railway, the depot’s Italianate-style architecture served as a hub for transporting cotton, iron, and passengers, significantly contributing to Oxford’s economic growth.
The ambitious renovation of the depot was spearheaded by Charlotte Hubbard, owner of the beloved Hubbard’s Off Main restaurant. Hubbard collaborated closely with the Alabama Historical Commission to adhere to strict historic preservation guidelines, enabling Spring Street Station to become Oxford’s first business to utilize the Alabama Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit.
In addition to the Alabama Historical Commission, the project saw contributions from Historic Main Street Oxford, Jay Jenkins Architecture, McWhorter Construction and Company, Opportunity Alabama, Southern Development Council, and Southern States Bank.
“The train station’s unique setting in historic downtown, and the location near quaint shops and the Oxford Performing Arts Center, will create an environment like none other in our city,” said Hubbard.
Spring Street Station’s menu promises “upscale fast food,” featuring special topping hot dogs, wings, and gourmet burgers, all served at competitive prices. The venue will also include a live music stage for young artists to showcase their talents, adding a vibrant cultural element to downtown Oxford.
Hunter Gentry, director of Historic Main Street Oxford, praised the project’s impact on the community. “It is exciting to welcome Spring Street Station to the expanding list of businesses who understand the economic benefits in restoring our downtown’s historic assets, while infusing them with their own 21st-century business energies,” Gentry said.
As the latest chapter in the depot’s history begins, Spring Street Station is poised to become a cornerstone of Oxford’s revitalized downtown, blending historic preservation with modern-day appeal.
The public is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony and experience the newly restored depot firsthand.
