Mrs. Khalida Scheidelman
Turris eburnea
3 Greene St.
Oxford, NY 13830
(607) 843-9968

NAVY ISLAND BLOCK - Where History and Practicality meet

Just before you cross the bridge, proceeding eastbound over the Chenango River in Oxford, and heading towards Washington Park, stands Navy Island Block to your right. Across the street, the riverside walk meandering in the small memorial park and overlooking the river bend, adds enchantment to the view.

Navy Island Block, a two-story brick-faced building standing stately at Main Street and overlooking the Chenango River, played profound role in Oxford's history. It was rebuilt in 1917 to replace what was called Navy Island, and which was comprised of several structures sandwiched against each other. Regardless of size, each structure was called a block, and collectively Navy Island. Navy Island was a host to thriving businesses and activities, at a time when Oxford itself was a thriving community. Phoenix Mills, Casey's Hall and Lewis' Hall (assembly rooms), Pudney and Freeman men's furnishings, and Harvey Morton and son, St. John, jewelers were among the many businesses that operated out of Navy Island.

Oxford had one of the two canal collectors between Utica and Binghamton, and the two largest blue stone quarries in the United States, operated by F. G. Clarke Blue Stone Company. Blue stone from the quarries of Oxford was used for the sidewalks of Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia. It was also used for the steps of the capital building in Albany, and for Grant's tomb. Other successful businesses in Oxford, some of which were unique in type and quality contributed to the overall economic wellbeing of the community. The Union Tooth Company manufactured artificial teeth and sold them in North America and Europe. The T. C. Avis Basket Co. produced three carloads of baskets a day. It was the largest basket manufacturer in the country, just to name a few. Businesses operating out of Navy Island were beneficiaries from and contributors to this success story.

On March 24, 1916 a fire destroyed the combination of structures of Navy Island. The description of this sad event was reported in the March 31, 1916 issue of the Oxford Review Times.

The new one-structure building was constructed of masonry and named "Navy Island Block." It consists of store-front units on its street level, and various types of units on its second level. Again, it became home to a variety of activities: village hall, assessor office, police department, and a variety of businesses. These included: Emerson Co. plumbing and heating, maternity hospital (Mrs. Black was born in this hospital.), Dr. Mayhew office, accountant office, medical supplies, grocery store, Zilpha Bower dress shop, shoe store, and many others.
The structure is currently undergoing restoration and renovation, including restoration of some of the beautiful metal ceilings that adorn some of the units, and which were popular in the early part of the twentieth century. One of two manually operated elevators remains in operating condition.

As we wade through these troubled times, economic difficulties, and uncertainties, it is inspiring to review such history. The success stories of Navy Island Block and of Oxford are products of diligent work and genuine cooperation that made good things happen. This success, repeated and multiplied throughout other towns and cities, introduced the great state of New York.