OXFORD, AL — February 11, 2025 — Historic Main Street Oxford held its annual meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Spring Street Station to celebrate the successes and achievements of 2024. The event, sponsored by First Bank of Alabama, featured the presentation of Main Street Alabama Grants and the inaugural Historic Main Street Oxford Downtown Business and Employee Awards.
The highlight of the event was the inaugural Downtown Business and Employee Awards:
- Downtown Business of the Year: The honor was awarded to The Terrortorium Haunted House & Amusementsand its owner, Jeremy Cruse. Cruse has transformed his business into a regional destination, providing entertainment while championing historic preservation by saving several historic buildings. He also serves on the Main Street Board and actively supports downtown initiatives.
- Downtown Employee of the Year: The award was presented to Melissa Houck of Cotton Antiques & Collectibles. Houck’s dedication and customer service have contributed to the store’s success, with increased sales and a waiting list of vendors under her leadership.
Four businesses received Main Street Alabama Illuminate Grants of $1,000 each to enhance marketing and business operations:
- Alfa Insurance – Thomas Shelton Agency: Will create Spanish-language marketing materials and educational social media content to better serve Oxford’s Hispanic community.
- Edwin Mortgage Team: Plans to distribute custom-branded reusable bags at Homecoming and Christmas parades for long-term marketing exposure.
- The Main Olive: Will update outdoor signage and window decals to enhance visibility and improve product labeling.
- Ulti-Mutt Bakery: Will invest in loyalty cards, flyers, and a branded tent setup to increase their presence at events statewide.
Two businesses received Main Street Alabama Bright Ideas: Business Pitch Competition Grants of $5,000 each for business growth:
- The Main Olive: Plans to upgrade its point-of-sale system to improve inventory management and cash flow.
- Ulti-Mutt Bakery: Will enhance production capabilities for a new food line and will represent Oxford in the regional Bright Ideas competition for a chance at an additional $25,000 grant.
Mayor Alton Craft commended the downtown businesses and the revitalization efforts, stating: “I am very proud of everyone who has aided in revitalizing downtown. In 2015, this place was struggling. The mall was struggling, and the I-85 exchange was struggling. Thanks to the work of the City Council and their investments, the mall is now thriving, and new businesses are opening at I-85. Oxford’s progress is due to people like you and your vision.”
Historic Main Street Oxford’s 2024 Year-End Report showcased significant economic and community development efforts:
- Private Improvements: $157,055
- Public Improvements: $8,868
- Façade Improvement Program: $2,471,763 (private) and $66,898 (public)
- Volunteer Hours: 243 hours dedicated to workshops and community events
New Businesses Opened in 2024
- The Bank Oxford (January) – Charcuterie bar and cocktail lounge
- Ulti-Mutt Bakery (March) – Natural dog treats and pet supply store
- Noonday Therapeutic Center (July) – Mental health and counseling services
- English Cottage Florist & Gift (July) – Specialty gift and floral shop
- Madi Lou’s Boutique (September) – Boutique clothing, hat bar, and permanent jewelry
- Kelly Right Real Estate (September) – Commercial and residential real estate firm
- Tutor Tots (November) – Private tutoring services for Pre-K to 6th grade
- Downtown Beauty Company (November) – Hair and nail salon
- Spring Street Station (December) – Upscale fast food & event venue in the historic Oxford Railway Depot
Annual Events & Community Engagement
Historic Main Street Oxford successfully hosted several events in 2024:
- Market on Main: 5,200 attendees
- Second Friday on Main: 4,000 attendees
- Witches Ride & Walk on Main & Fall Market: 3,000 attendees
- Trick or Treat on Main: 5,000 attendees
- Christmas on Main: 4,700 attendees
With continued investment and community engagement, Historic Main Street Oxford is set to expand its impact in 2025, further solidifying downtown Oxford as a destination for arts, dining, shopping, and entertainment.
