Mortimer Jordan High School

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School History

Mortimer Jordan High School was named after Captain Mortimer Harvie Jordan. Captain Jordan, a war hero, lost his life in World War I. He was a soldier, officer and physician. As commanding officer of Company K, 16th infantry, 42nd "Rainbow Division", he was mortally wounded while leading his sector in battle. He died of his wounds in 1918 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Mortimer Jordan High School opened its doors in the fall of 1920 with a mere ninety students enrolled. Two students, Ms. Sudie Counts Rogers and Ms. Eileen Jenkins Lovelady, graduated that year. The first principal, Ms. Minnie Holliman, and three female teachers completed the faculty.

The original building of five rooms soon became inadequate and a frame building of eight rooms was added. The first water system for the school was installed during the early 1930's. Alabama By-Product Corporation in Majestic donated the pump and water filter to the school using Turkey Creek as the water source. A teacher and some students installed the system, and water fountains were placed outside the building. Between the years of 1937 and 1941 indoor plumbing and restrooms were installed.

The "old gym" was built by the WPA during 1936 and 1937, around the same time the lunchroom program was established. The first Miss Mortimer Jordan, now Miss Torch, was elected in 1937. Stage curtains were purchased for the gym stage with the proceeds from the pageant.

During the early 1950's, a then up-to-date football and athletic field was constructed. Restrooms in the football stadium were added in 1962.

The school today consists of a multi-complex that includes two gymnasiums, academic classrooms, and a lunchroom. A music department (band and choir), homemaking department, business education department, and student counseling service were added and remain a valuable part of the curriculum at Mortimer Jordan.

The outstanding office personnel under the leadership of a very competent principal is something the school has enjoyed for many years. Remarkably since its establishment, Mortimer Jordan High School has had only eleven principals. Former principal, Mr. Jimmie A. Trotter, served over thirty-six years -- as a coach, and as its principal. The current administration is headed by Dr. Byron Campbell who is an MJ alumnus and proudly serves our school and community. He has guided us through many changes in the last few years culminating in Mortimer Jordan becoming a true "high school" , grades 9-12, with the opening of the new North Jefferson Middle School in the fall of 2004.

Mortimer Jordan High School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and School and the State Department of Education.

Mortimer Jordan High School is part of the Jefferson County School District. The school is located in northern Jefferson County in the small town of Morris, Alabama.[Mortimer Jordan High School Website]