OXFORD – The OIDC, or Oxford Industrial Development Corporation, is a non-profit organization with deep roots in the Oxford community. Incorporated in 1963, the OIDC exists today with some of its members in their second generation. Their purpose is basically the same as it was four decades ago: to help industrial, commercial and manufacturing facilities increase in Oxford, helping to create new jobs. By reducing unemployment it improves community prosperity. There are other industrial developmental organizations today, but not many have so many years of experience to offer and so much personal involvement as the OIDC. Some background history explains their qualifications.
In 1963, some successful businessmen had some pretty lofty goals forming this legal corporation. Their stationery was printed with the OIDC name and the slogan, “Devoted to the Future of Oxford.” Judson Behe, who became the first President of the Oxford Industrial Development Association; C. Kenneth Race, the Mayor of the Village of Oxford at that time; David L. Emerson; Lester M. Cooper, Sr.; Robert S. Marshman, C. Vernon Stratton; Herbert S. Crumb; Paul W. Kelly; George R. Stratton; Anthony M. Paino; and Harold W. McKenzie were all local entrepreneurs who felt they had to get involved and give something back to their community to help Oxford thrive.
The OIDC bylaws outline that the corporation can study and promote economic growth, acquire real estate for industrial, manufacturing and commercial facilities, secure loans, provide advice and technical and financial assistance to others in the management of their properties, affairs and businesses. The corporation shall not be conducted or operated for profit.
One month after forming the corporation they had their first client, the Crescent Corset Company. Crescent, the manufacturer of intimate apparel products for women, had been in business since 1920 in Cortland. They were looking to expand in a new location and the OIDC contracted to build them a welcoming workspace funded by private investments. Land was purchased from Helen and Joseph Laljer south of the Village on Route 12. A steel building was purchased and constructed within a year and the Crescent company began production. A year later, the Crescent Corset Co. was employing 120 people and wanted to employ at least 80 more. So, in the spring of 1966, the OIDC had the building enlarged by 50%. Crescent stayed for five more years then moved on. (In 1980, Crescent merged with Lilyette Brassiere Co., which is now a subsidiary of Maidenform headquartered in Iselin, NJ.) No dust settled before new tenants moved in – Automecha.
