Oxford Board Authorizes Mayor to Continue Negotiations with Cedar Oaks Guild for Historical Mansion’s Preservation

Oxford Board of Aldermen Authorizes Mayor to Continue Cedar Oaks Guild Discussions

In a recent move to secure the future of Cedar Oaks, one of Oxford’s historical landmarks, the Oxford Board of Aldermen has given Mayor Robyn Tannehill the go-ahead to continue dialogues with the Cedar Oaks Guild. The talks revolve around the possibility of transferring the historical Cedar Oaks mansion to the Guild for preservation and upkeep.

Importance of Preservation

Mayor Tannehill expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the shared objectives between the city and the Guild. “We want to see the house maintained, just as the Cedar Oaks Guild does, and used in a way that benefits the most taxpayers and I think there are several ways to accomplish that”, she explained. Reflecting on the importance of preservation, Tannehill added, “I believe that it’s in the best interest of the home, the Guild, and the taxpayers for the home to be cared for by the people who love it the most.”

Previous Controversies

The city faced backlash in February when a proposal for selling Cedar Oaks surfaced without the Guild members’ consultation, leading to apprehensions about the property being used for commercial development. Mayor Tannehill clarified the misunderstanding assuring that the Board never intended to sell the house for redevelopment. Regretful over the miscommunication earlier this year, Tannehill took responsibility for the information gap and emphasized the Board’s commitment to protecting the mansion’s historical significance.

The Mansion’s Condition

The Cedar Oaks mansion, presently in good shape, sports a new roof, paint job, latest appliances, and a recent HVAC system installation. Tannehill evidenced her confidence in the Guild, pointing out the broader funding mechanisms that the non-profit organization might tap into for the mansion’s maintenance, compared to what the city could offer. The agreement to transfer the mansion to the Guild, she underscored, would include a reversion clause allowing the city to reclaim the property as necessary.

Looking Forward

Following Mayor Tannehill’s statement, the Board unanimously voted to authorize her to proceed with discussions with the Cedar Oaks Guild. The city hopes to curate a mutually beneficial agreement with the Guild to ensure the maintenance and preservation of Cedar Oaks’ mansion if the Guild agrees to assume the responsibility.

Cedar Oaks’ Significant Legacy

Built in 1859 by master builder and self-taught architect William Turner as his residence, the Cedar Oaks mansion encapsulates Oxford’s history. After being relocated from North Lamar Boulevard to its current location off Sisk Avenue in east Oxford in 1963, the renowned mansion remained under the management of Oxford Lafayette Historic Homes. The organization, an umbrella for three women’s clubs – Centennial Study Club, Cosmopolitan Study Club, and the Readers Guild (now amalgamated into the Cedar Oaks Guild), took care of the property for over 50 years. It was deeded to the city of Oxford in 2010 and has since been managed by the Historic Sites Commission of Oxford.