Oxford
As the county seat, Oxford serves as a center of culture and industry. It is located 75 miles southeast of Memphis, and 55 miles west of Tupelo. Oxford is home to The University of Mississippi, North Mississippi’s Baptist Memorial Hospital, and a large industrial park. The community offers jobs in areas such as education, manufacturing, tourism, retail, healthcare, and service industries.
Oxford, home to 14,575 residents, is a diverse community with plenty of Southern hospitality and culture. The Courthouse Square offers locally owned restaurants and boutiques, and is one of the town’s main attractions. Residents and visitors enjoy the city’s vibrant college town feel and access to unique galleries and historic landmarks.
The hospitality and tourism industry in Oxford is strong and visitors enjoy the many unique attractions and comfortable inns. Visitors also return regularly for Southeastern Conference athletic events, performing arts programs, visiting exhibitors, and festivals.
Abbeville
The town of Abbeville is conveniently located just off MS-7 North, only 11 ½ miles north of Oxford, and approximately 21 miles from US-55. Abbeville is home to about 485 residents and is served by the Lafayette County School District.
Almost destroyed during the American Civil War’s Vicksburg Campaign, Abbeville remains, rich with history. It was settled in the 1830s by pioneers from Abbeville, South Carolina. The settlers lived among the Chickasaw Indians, whose Chief operated a ferry along the Memphis-Oxford trade route.
The University of Mississippi Field Station is located in Abbeville. The research and educational facility teaches visiting faculty and students, schools, and government agencies about sustainable freshwater ecosystems.
Taylor
Taylor is a small village situated close to Hwy 328 about 17 miles from US-55. The unique community is served by the Lafayette County School System and is an easy 8 mile commute to Oxford.
Taylor, with a population of about 280, is home to painters, sculptors, potters, photographers, writers and furniture makers. Two art galleries and an antiques outlet attract many visitors to the area. The village may be best known for Taylor Grocery, a world famous catfish restaurant that has been featured in national publications. Live music can be enjoyed at Taylor Grocery or the Big Truck Theater, an old barn where musicians perform on the back of an old flat bed truck.
The village is also known for its Plein Air area, an old fashioned style neighborhood with a vibrant town square where many artists’ shops are located. Art lessons, lectures, and art shows are hosted in the eclectic neighborhood.
