Cedar Oaks Mansion: A Gem in the City Hands of Oxford

The historical landmark, Cedar Oaks mansion, has remained in the hands of the city following a tug-of-war in Oxford legislative corridors. The Greek Revival Mansion has been a symbol of Southern grandeur since its construction in 1857, standing tall near Oxford’s Avent Park. A heated debate on the city’s ability to sell the mansion sparked concerns among community members.

A Bit of Background

Cedar Oaks, often lovingly referred to as “the house that would not die”, carries a rich tapestry of history within its majestic walls. Established by William Turner in 1859, during the Civil War, it was occupied by his daughter, Molly Turner Orr. The mansion was spared from destruction by Union General Ulysses S. Grant, thanks to the persuasions of Orr Sarah Isom, the University of Mississippi’s first female faculty member. Since then, the mansion has been a stoic witness to history, housing Confederate prisoners in its basement during the war and serving the city of Oxford in numerous capacities.

The Unsettling Move to Sell

Recently, Oxford’s authorities attempted a legislation amendment that could have potentially led to the sale of the mansion. The proposed shift was met with strong resistance. Among those concerned was Oxford native, Lillian Susan Walker Smith Sahag, born in Cedar Oaks, who penned a heartfelt letter to the Oxford Board of Aldermen

“This home has served the city of Oxford in so many ways, in so many capacities,” Sahag expressed. “To just not respect and not understand what has made Oxford such a wonderful town that people love and come to see, is a huge mistake.”

Mansion’s Fate Hangs in the Balance

Following a tied vote among the Board of Aldermen, Mayor Robyn Tannehill cast the deciding vote in favor of potential legislation. However, the lack of a unanimous vote meant the city was unable to proceed with altering the legislation, according to an email received by City Clerk, Ashley Atkinson.

The city’s endeavor to seek other funding avenues was also met with surprise by Joe Atkins, a professor emeritus of journalism at the University of Mississippi. “I don’t know why they would need to sell this home to raise more revenue unless there’s a problem we don’t know about,” Atkins mused.

A Historic Mansion on Safe Ground—for Now

while the mansion’s sale will not proceed presently at least, it has stirred various emotions. According to the City Mayor, the resolution sought to explore possible avenues for the growing city, not necessarily by selling Cedar Oaks, but by considering options such as selling adjacent lots under Mississippi Historic Landmark guidelines.

However, for the Cedar Oaks Guild—a non-profit organization devoted to the mansion’s preservation—this is a time of relief. As the president of the guild, Keri Dibrell, puts it, “Cedar Oaks is safe, for now.”

This picturesque mansion, with its grand pillars and sprawling verandas, is not merely a building. It represents the rich cultural heritage of Oxford and serves as a tangible connection to its past. For now, it seems, Cedar Oaks will continue to proudly bear the mantle of Oxford’s heritage.