A Southern Tradition
A Southern Shopping Tradition Since 1839
For nearly two centuries, Neilson’s Department Store has been part of the fabric of Oxford Mississippi.
What began as a small general store on the Courthouse Square has grown into one of the oldest continuously operating retail businesses in the South.
Today, Neilson’s remains a destination for timeless style, thoughtful gifts, and the personal service that has defined the store for generations.
Tested by History
Surviving the Civil War
During the Civil War, Oxford was occupied by Union troops, and in 1864 much of the Square was burned.
Neilson’s was destroyed in the fire.
Because William Smith Neilson had converted his savings to gold and buried it for safekeeping, he was able to rebuild. The store reopened in 1866, and business has continued without interruption ever since.
Few businesses in America can tell a story of such resilience.
Pioneer Days
Where It All Began
In 1838, William Smith Neilson left East Tennessee and traveled by ox-wagon to the newly established town of Oxford, Mississippi. He opened a small log cabin store on the north side of the Square, stocking everything pioneer families might need, from groceries and hardware to medicines and even coffins.
From the beginning, Neilson’s was more than a store. It was a trusted part of everyday life in a growing community.
A New Century
Building a Southern Institution
In 1897, Joseph Edwin Neilson constructed the building that still forms the heart of the current store.
He transformed Neilson’s into a modern department store, organizing merchandise into dedicated departments and focusing on clothing and related goods.
His philosophy was simple and enduring:
Quality. Style. Dependable Service.
That commitment helped establish Neilson’s as a respected shopping destination throughout the Mid-South.
Through Good Times and Hard Times
Serving the Community
During the Great Depression, Neilson’s supported local families by honoring IOUs, extending credit, and helping university and school employees when state-issued paychecks were delayed.
The store has always been rooted in community, not just commerce.
The Lewis Family Legacy
Continuing the Tradition
In 1964, ownership transitioned to the Lewis family.
Under their leadership, the store continued to evolve while preserving the values that made it successful.
In 2015, Neilson’s underwent a complete renovation, blending historic character with a fresh shopping experience.
Today, William Lewis, Jr. and his daughter, Amanda Lewis Hyneman, oversee daily operations and continue the family tradition.
More Than a Store
A Cornerstone of the Oxford Square
For generations, Neilson’s has been a place where:
Families shop for special occasions
Students prepare for game day
Visitors discover the charm of Oxford
Friendships are made and renewed
It is a store where customers are greeted by name and invited to stay a while.
The South’s Oldest Store
Neilson’s proudly celebrated 185 years in business in 2024.
The store is recognized as:
The South’s Oldest Store
One of the ten oldest retail businesses in the United States
A historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places
Daily business records dating from 1892 to 2010 are preserved in the University of Mississippi Special Collections.
How Do You Pronounce Neilson’s?
Locals often say “Nelson’s,” while members of the founding family pronounce it “Neel-son’s.”
At Neilson’s, both are welcome.
Today and Tomorrow
Though fashions change, Neilson’s continues to offer what has always set it apart: carefully curated merchandise, exceptional service, and a warm welcome on the Square.
The store remains committed to earning the trust and goodwill of every customer who walks through its doors.
Ownership Timeline
William Smith Neilson 1839–1892
Joseph Edwin Neilson 1892–1936
David Glenn Neilson 1914–1964
Herman Glenn 1914–1954
William Lewis, Sr. 1930–1989
David Glenn Neilson, Jr. 1936–1960
Olivia Lewis Nabors 1964–2001
William Lewis, Jr. 1964–Present
Goodloe Tankersley Lewis 2001–Present
Lydia Lewis Myers 2001–Present
Amanda Lewis Hyneman 2001–Present
Source Note:
This history is adapted from a written account by William Lewis, Sr. (1989), updated by Amanda Lewis Hyneman (2022).