Northeast Oakland Historical Museum: A Landmark Preserving Oxford’s Story
Drew Holt stood inside the historic building at 1 North Washington Street, Oxford, MI 48371 and introduced it with pride. “We’re in the old Oxford Savings Bank of 1922, which today is the Northeast Oakland Historical Museum,” he said. “It’s a free museum, open to anyone who wants to learn the story of our community.”
The bank itself began in 1884 and moved through several locations before this structure was built in 1922. Much of the building’s original character remains, including a massive 14,000-pound Mosler safe that was lowered into place before construction was completed. Limestone, tile work, and early art deco details still give the space the look and feel of a fortress. It is a building with a story before you even step inside the exhibits.
In 1966, when Oxford Savings Bank moved to its current location, President Bob Dick and his wife recognized the importance of preserving local heritage. They helped launch the Northeast Oakland Historical Society with the goal of creating a free museum dedicated to keeping the community’s history alive.
Visitors today can explore artifacts, photographs, and displays representing Oxford, Lake Orion, Addison Township, Lakeville, and Leonard. Each room offers something unexpected, from early industry and local businesses to the families whose names now appear on street signs throughout the region. School groups visit every spring to learn how the area grew and changed. “Most people drive past these names every day,” Drew said, “but they don’t realize the stories behind them.”
The museum also offers unique gifts and a new 2026 calendar filled with rare photographs and short stories from the 1800s and early 1900s. The calendar includes a centerfold poster and highlights local features many residents never knew existed.
Memberships help support the museum, with annual or lifetime options available, and every dollar helps keep the doors open for future generations. Current membership pricing (subject to change) is:
Annual Membership Dues: Single $15/yr, Student $5/yr, Business/Organization $50/yr
Lifetime Membership: Individual $145, Business/Organization $500
Visiting the Museum: Free to the public
When asked what he wants the community to know, Drew’s answer was simple: “We’re here to keep Oxford’s history alive. If you walk through the door, you’re going to learn something you didn’t know. That’s what makes this place special.”