Have you ever played "pass it down the line" or "whisper down the lane"? Keep that in mind as I share the story of Oxford's Memory Tree. Like those childhood games, this tale has been passed down through the years, evolving with each retelling, yet maintaining its essence as a testament to our town's spirit and resilience.

When I first moved to Oxford and purchased my property across from the "Green," I was immediately struck by the potential of this central location. The Green, a triangular plot owned by the Oxford Presbyterian Church, sits at the heart of our town. It's where our flag stands proudly and where the great oak tree once cast its protective shadow over generations of Oxford residents.

As I gazed at this space, an idea began to form: What if we had a Town Christmas Tree right here in the center of Oxford? It seemed like the perfect way to bring the community together during the holiday season. However, I soon discovered that turning this vision into reality would be more challenging than I initially thought.

At the time, a white pine tree already occupied the spot where I envisioned the Town Christmas Tree. Eager to pursue my idea, I reached out to a couple of church elders. While they appreciated the concept, they informed me that the white pine couldn't be removed. It wasn't just any tree; it was a "Memory Tree," planted years ago in remembrance of a loved one.

This revelation piqued my curiosity. Who was this tree memorializing? What was the story behind it? Little did I know that these questions would lead me on a journey through Oxford's history and community spirit.

Years passed, and nature took its course. A severe storm damaged the white pine beyond repair, necessitating its removal. Seeing an opportunity to revisit my original idea, I approached the church once again. This time, they granted permission to replace the tree. However, I felt a responsibility to learn more about the original Memory Tree and honor its legacy.

After some digging, I discovered that the tree had been planted in memory of William R. Harlan, a young man who had passed away far too soon. Wanting to ensure that any new plans would respect his memory, I reached out to his sister, Nancy Harlan Kodish.

Nancy shared a touching story about the original tree. After her brother's passing, the church had taken up a collection to plant the tree in his memory. Shortly after its planting, the community came together to decorate it for Christmas, transforming it into a symbol of both remembrance and celebration.

However, the story took an unexpected turn. In an act that shocked the community, someone cut down the newly planted and decorated tree, stealing it along with all its ornaments. It was a blow to the Harlan family and the entire town. But Oxford's spirit couldn't be dampened so easily. In a show of solidarity and resilience, a group of Boy Scouts stepped up to replace the tree, ensuring that William's memory would continue to be honored.

Learning this history made me even more determined to revive the tradition of the Memory Tree. I reached out to Chad Howell of Howell's Lawn and Landscape LLC, sharing my vision for a new tree that would serve as both a memorial and a community focal point. Chad, in turn, spoke with Eugene Glomb of Glomb Services Inc., who generously offered to donate a tree.

With Chad and his team's expertise, the new Memory Tree was planted. For about eight years, it grew beautifully, becoming a cherished part of Oxford's landscape. Each Christmas, it was adorned with lights and decorations, a shining beacon of community spirit in the heart of our town.

But the Memory Tree's story wasn't over yet. One night, the unthinkable happened. A drunk driver, traveling south on 472 into Oxford, missed the turn and crashed into the Green. The impact sent the vehicle over the two-foot-high stone wall, knocking over our beloved tree.

Once again, the community rallied. Gene and Chad came to the rescue, replacing the damaged tree with a new one. This act of generosity and community spirit echoed the actions of those Boy Scouts years ago, proving that Oxford's commitment to honoring its past and nurturing its present remains as strong as ever.

Today, the latest incarnation of the Memory Tree continues to grow, standing tall and proud on the Green. Each year, as the holiday season approaches, it's decorated with care, a tradition that brings our community together and connects us to our past.

My hope is that this tree becomes more than just a holiday decoration. I want it to be a living memorial, not just for William R. Harlan, but for all our loved ones who have passed. Like the old oak tree that once graced the Green, may the Memory Tree become a symbol of Oxford's enduring spirit and the connections that bind our community.

As we reflect on the journey of the Memory Tree, from its origins as a memorial for a young man to its current role as a centerpiece of our town's celebrations, we're reminded of what makes Oxford special. It's not just the physical landmarks or the events we hold; it's the people—past and present—who have shaped our town's character through their actions, their resilience, and their commitment to community.

The story of the Memory Tree is, in many ways, the story of Oxford itself. It's a tale of loss and remembrance, of setbacks and perseverance, of individual actions and collective spirit. Each time we gather around the tree, whether to decorate it for the holidays or simply to enjoy its presence on a warm summer day, we're participating in a living tradition that connects us to our town's history and to each other.

As you pass by the Green and see the Memory Tree standing tall, take a moment to reflect on its journey. Remember William R. Harlan and his family, the church members who first planted a tree in his memory, the Boy Scouts who replaced it when it was stolen, and all those who have contributed to keeping this tradition alive over the years.

In the words of the legendary broadcaster Paul Harvey, "And now you know the rest of the story" about Oxford's Memory Tree. But in truth, the story isn't over. It continues with each passing year, with each new decoration, with each person who pauses to appreciate its beauty and significance. The Memory Tree stands as a testament to Oxford's past and a beacon for its future—a living symbol of our town's enduring spirit and the power of community.