Oxford Historic District

a.k.a. T-1158

Roughly bounded by Tred Avon R, Town Creek and Caroline Ave., Oxford, MD
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Community Planning And Development; Maritime History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The University of Maryland was founded in 1856: The University of Maryland, College Park, was founded in 1856 as the Maryland Agricultural College. Today, it is the flagship campus of the University System of Maryland and is one of the largest universities in the state.
Talbot County, located on the eastern shore of Maryland, has a rich and storied history dating back to the early 17th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Nanticokes and the Choptanks, who lived off the land and thrived on fishing and agriculture.

In 1661, Talbot County was officially established by an Act of the Maryland General Assembly, named after the state's first provincial governor, Cecilius Calvert, 2nd Baron Baltimore, also known as Lord Baltimore. The county quickly became an important center for trade and commerce, with thriving industries such as shipbuilding, tobacco farming, and oyster harvesting.

During the Revolutionary War, Talbot County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The county saw both loyalist and patriot sentiment, with many residents actively joining the armed forces to fight against British rule. Talbottonians also played a crucial role in the struggle for civil rights, with prominent African American leaders such as Frederick Douglass inspiring local communities to advocate for equality and justice.

Today, Talbot County stands as a place that seamlessly blends its rich history with its natural beauty. Visitors can explore its many historical landmarks, including charming colonial towns, stately mansions, and museums that showcase the area's vibrant past. The county continues to be a hub for agriculture, aquaculture, and tourism, attracting visitors who appreciate its wonderful blend of tradition and modernity.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Talbot County, Maryland.

  • 1661 - Talbot County is established as part of Province of Maryland
  • 1677 - First courthouse is built in the town now known as Easton
  • 1706 - Oxford becomes the first town incorporated in Talbot County
  • 1711 - Trappe becomes the second town incorporated in Talbot County
  • 1731 - St. Michaels becomes the third town incorporated in Talbot County
  • 1783 - Frederick Douglass is born in Talbot County
  • 1810 - Easton becomes the fourth town incorporated in Talbot County
  • 1822 - Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is founded in St. Michaels
  • 1864 - Harriet Tubman leads the Combahee River Raid during the Civil War
  • 1963 - Freedom Riders are arrested and jailed in Easton during the Civil Rights Movement