About Us

The devastating cholera epidemic of 1833 left many Lexington children orphaned. The city fathers, under the guidance of the mayor Charlton Hunt, recognized the need for educating these children and subsequently started Lexington's first "free" or public school. Morton started on March 1,1834 and one hundred seven people began classes under the guidance of principal Joseph Gayle and his daughter. Morton  was named after William "Lord" Morton a wealthy merchant. 

This first two story brick structure housed Morton students for almost 60 years. in 1888 one principal and 7 teachers where responsible for 385 students.

In 1905 under the innovative direction on Massilon Cassidy the first high school in Lexington was established at the old Morton school. It was called Morton school it was the forerunner of Lexington high school (1918) and eventually Henry Clay high school  (1928).

The students were extremely proud of their new building which was modeled after George Washington's Mt. Vernon home. The student body was admonished, by a peer, to "keep William. Morton a handsome, clean school building."

The Morton students continue the tradition of excellence that is their heritage. names of graduates through the years read much like a Who's Who of Lexington and central Kentucky. Morton has produced many outstanding educators, doctors, lawyers, businessmen and women, leaders of government and, as William Morton wished in 1834, countless useful citizens.

The band program has also always had a tradition of excellence.  The current band program has approximately 220 students in grades six thru eighth.  Classes include:  6th grade beginning, 6th grade percussion, 6th grade intermediate, 7th grade band, 8th grade jazz band, 7th and 8th grade advanced band.