Oxford, AL – A piece of history in downtown Oxford is about to undergo a transformation, as the community gathers for the groundbreaking ceremony of Spring Street Station on Tuesday, February 13th, at 1 p.m. The event marks the commencement of the restoration project for the 140-year-old train depot, located at 50 Spring Street.
Local restaurateur Charlotte Hubbard is spearheading the revival of this iconic Italianate-style depot and freight warehouse, originally constructed in 1884 by the East Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia Railway. The building has stood witness to the post-Civil War economic growth in Oxford, playing a pivotal role in the transportation of cotton, iron, and people.
Hubbard’s vision for Spring Street Station goes beyond mere restoration. She aims to breathe new life into the historic structure by transforming it into Oxford’s newest eatery and event venue. The venue will not only provide a unique dining experience but also serve as a versatile space for meetings and special occasions, adding vibrancy to the downtown area.
What makes this project even more significant is Hubbard’s pioneering use of the Alabama Historic Tax Credit Program for commercial purposes. Assisted by the Southern Development Council, Southern States Bank, and Opportunity Alabama, Hubbard is leading the way in utilizing historic tax credits to revitalize the heart of Oxford. McWhorter Construction is tasked with the construction, while Jay Jenkins serves as the architect for this ambitious undertaking.
Historic Main Street Oxford director Hunter Gentry expressed his enthusiasm for the long-awaited restoration, saying, “Saving this building is something we have talked about for a very long time. Now, ten years later, Mrs. Hubbard is making that idea come to fruition. It’s really exciting to see that building, which has set there vacant and dilapidated for so long, brought back to life.”
The groundbreaking event promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together community members, local leaders, and preservation enthusiasts to witness the commencement of this remarkable journey to revive a cherished landmark. As Spring Street Station takes shape, it is destined to become a cornerstone of Oxford’s cultural and culinary landscape, bridging the gap between history and a vibrant future.
