Oxford bicentennial parade looking for floats

OXFORD – Organizers of Oxford’s bicentennial parade July 26 say they are still looking for groups and organizations to participate.

So far 14 floats are signed up, said Oxford Lions Club President Ron Charles Tuesday at a bicentennial committee meeting.

The parade’s theme is “200 Years of Change.” Float participants are asked to model their float after themes from one of the four, 50-year time periods between 1808 and 2008.

“Each section will reflect that era,” said Charles. “(That way) a flowing 200-year history of Oxford will unfold as the parade passes.”

He added: “Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of the magnificent display of your hometown history.”

Official bicentennial events are scheduled to kick-off later this month, culminating with a weekend-long celebration July 25-26.

Aside from the parade, Civil War re-enactors, American Indian dancers, fireworks, horse rides, dances, concerts, parties, historic walking tours and barbecues are planned, as are a number of other concerts and activities in the month leading up to the celebration. Local and state dignitaries are also expected to be in attendance.

A completed schedule of events should be available for the public in the next few weeks, said committee co-chair Dale B. Leach.