OXFORD – The OIDC, or Oxford Industrial Development Corporation, is a non-profit organization with deep roots in the Oxford community. Incorporated in 1963, the OIDC exists today with some of its members in their second generation. Their purpose is basically the same as it was four decades ago: to help industrial, commercial and manufacturing facilities increase in Oxford, helping to create new jobs. By reducing unemployment it improves community prosperity. There are other industrial developmental organizations today, but not many have so many years of experience to offer and so much personal involvement as the OIDC. Some background history explains their qualifications.

In 1963, some successful businessmen had some pretty lofty goals forming this legal corporation. Their stationery was printed with the OIDC name and the slogan, “Devoted to the Future of Oxford.” Judson Behe, who became the first President of the Oxford Industrial Development Association; C. Kenneth Race, the Mayor of the Village of Oxford at that time; David L. Emerson; Lester M. Cooper, Sr.; Robert S. Marshman, C. Vernon Stratton; Herbert S. Crumb; Paul W. Kelly; George R. Stratton; Anthony M. Paino; and Harold W. McKenzie were all local entrepreneurs who felt they had to get involved and give something back to their community to help Oxford thrive.