Founded in 1683, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in the entire United States. Rich with maritime history, the town was declared one of two original ports of entry for the colony of Maryland in 1694. The other port, located on the Western Shore, was called Ann Arundel, soon to be called Annapolis. Clipper ships arrived from around the world to unload their valuable cargos at Oxford.

Throughout its history, Oxford has been closely associated with the water through early international trade, generations of watermen, boatbuilders, and a flourishing seafood industry. It has become a popular yachting center known for excellent facilities and its adjacent waters that offer the best in fishing, sailing, and cruising.

Among the many points of interest in this charming town are the Grapevine House built in 1798, which claims to have the oldest grapevine in the United States; the Academy House, which served as the officers’ quarters for the Maryland Military Academy from 1848 to 1855; and a replica of the Customs House built by Jeremiah Banning, the first Federal Collector of Customs. The Oxford Museum and an inviting waterfront park are located in the heart of town. Nearby are meticulously restored historic homes that lend their charm to this gem of a town.

Despite heavy pressure to rezone its maritime commercial area for high density condominiums and townhouses, Oxford has protected its boating industry. Indeed, over the years the town fathers have done a superb job of preserving the maritime flavor. With a population of less than one thousand, Oxford boasts nine boatyards and marinas—truly a yachtsman’s paradise.