Over the past two years, the organization Discover Oxford has been working toward making Oxford the place to be. They became a registered Indiana Main Street organization back in march of 2023 which allowed them to protect historic buildings and raise more funding for projects that could benefit the community. One of their goals is to establish businesses on the town square to raise the attraction to the town.
The Market is a successful business on the town square that opened around one year ago. It is owned by Troy and Heather Leak who own Midwest Prime Farms that sell meat online. They decided that they wanted to move into a location that was easily accessible to people and they also heard about Discover Oxford encouraging new businesses to come to Oxford. They sell their meats and other fresh farm products. They also sell other local small business products such as non-toxic deodorant, chips and salsa, baked goods, craft sodas, and much more. If you are wanting some quick fresh food items or even a gift for a loved one the market is the place to check out.
The second and more established business in Oxford is Cabbage Rose Floral Market owned by Pam Ashcraft. This flower shop sells a variety of flower arrangements for every occasion: Weddings, Homecoming or Prom Flowers, Funerals, or even just a small bouquet for that special person. To pair with her beautiful arrangements, Mrs. Ashcraft also sells jewelry, bags, and other gift items. Cabbage Rose Floral Market is now the only flower shop in Benton County so make sure next time you need flowers to support your local businesses and stop in.
Some other businesses that are new in Oxford is Holy Smokes BBQ food truck owned by Tony Lee. He sells his amazing food at festivals, farmer’s markets, and other local events in Benton and surrounding counties.
Back on the town square Lilac Heritage Farm Antiques and Collectables is owned by Tonnie Miller, and in her shop she sells a variety of vintage thrift items for every need. If you don’t want to stop in or you don’t live close enough Mrs. Miller has an eBay store where you can find all her items as well. Stop in to check it out, you might find something great!
The next new business is not directly on the town square, but it is still in Oxford. TDeez Creations is owned by Tom and Heather Deno. These two are originally from Boswell but then moved to Maryland for two years where they owned a very successful business. Due to wanting to be closer to family, they decided to move the business to Oxford. They sell a variety of custom woodworks with Epoxy including tables, charcuterie boards, cutting boards, furniture, and more. If you are looking for a new piece in your home or want to give a thoughtful gift to someone, I would highly recommend TDeez Creations where you are not only supporting a local business but supporting local people.
If you have ever driven through Oxford’s town square you may have noticed there are many unused buildings. But, with the help of hardworking people and Discover Oxford, the Square is turning into a hot new spot in Benton County. The 1874 Messner Building is one of many buildings folks are working hard to give a facelift! Brooke & Tom Johnson are the proud owners of the historic Messner Building and plan to renovate it and give back some of its former glory. The building has a rich history as a general store and even an upstairs bowling alley. Unfortunately, the building suffered a fire in 1943, but was saved by the Messner family.
If you are ever in need of a healthy snack, flowers, or just something to do the town square in oxford is the place to go!
Tom McGuire • Oct 17, 2024 at 8:19 pm
Nice to hear about my hometown. I am proud to call myself a true “Oxford Fellow.”