The Morton Family

Joseph Hungerford Morton graduated from Pomonkey High School and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, formerly known as the Maryland State College. After graduating, Joseph served in the Army during the Korean War. Upon his return to the states, he and his new bride Havannah Paulette Simmons, moved to Bryans Road, Maryland. Joseph received his Master’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and taught in the Charles County Public School system as an Industrial Arts teacher. He was the first African-American teacher at La Plata High School before taking a vice principal position at Surrattsville High School. Later, Joseph was promoted to the Maryland State Department of Education. After retirement, Joe opened a home improvement business and prided himself in providing opportunities for others to learn a trade. Joe was a life member of Bee Hive Lodge #66 Free and Accepted Masons (Past Master), and The American Legion Randolph Furey Post 170 (Past Commander). He was a faithful member of Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Pomonkey. He and his wife, Havannah have two daughters, Ava Jo and Marcia Elaine.