An Introduction...

Welcome to the “official” webpage for the Oxford, New Jersey Historical Society! This blog will serve as a means of not only communicating to the world-wide web about the going-ons of the Society, but also as a time capsule of Oxford days gone by. Readers can look forward to posts that highlight such topics as the Oxford Movie Theater, a look into work-related accidents in the mines and railways, getting to know the locals during the early years of Oxford, and how two World Wars changed a small town.

 

For starters, let’s introduce the writer and blog founder….

 

My name is Renee and I have lived in Warren County all of my life. I am proud to say that my paternal heritage runs deep in Oxford, descending from the Zulauf and Decker families, and being a part of the “Meshach” clan that lived on Dutch Hill. I grew up with a love of history and have fond memories of visiting old Oxford garbage pits when I was little, digging up old bottles and finding thrown away “treasures”. I was at the "grand opening "of Shippen Manor and remember watching an excavation take place in on the hill in front of the Manor house. Many years later, I would find myself going back to Shippen Manor to see if they were in need of tour guides. Fast forward 10 years later, to present day, and I still am a docent at the Manor and enjoy being able to take part in a home that is so rich in history.

 

The best part about being able to volunteer at the Manor is that it is a part of my history. My grandfather, great uncles, great grandfather, and various other relatives called Oxford not only their home but their place of employment. The mines of Oxford were no strangers to my ancestors and so being a part of Shippen Manor, talking about the Oxford Furnace, the mines, and the company store is explaining a part of my history as well.

 

When I was asked to take over the Oxford Historical Society, it was an easy decision to make. It felt like I was being handed a golden ticket, a chance to delve deeper into a little town that I loved. I have many hopes for the historical society, some lofty and some small, so please allow me the time to research, write, and plan future meetings and gatherings for all of us to share our love and knowledge of Oxford.

 

Check back soon for an updated blog with pictures and a historic post about our beloved little town!