Fort Hill graduates 1956

These are the graduation photographs of the three students who were the first to graduate from an Allegany County high school following integration. This was in May 1956 at Fort Hill High School which was the first among the schools to hold its commencement. The notations appeared next to their photographs in the school yearbook.

Harold Eugene Hilton was enrolled in the Vocational curriculum, a member of the Hi-Y, Town Meeting, and considered to be a "neat dresser", "friendly", and have a "wonderful personality".

Judith Ann Leath was in the General curriculum, played girls basketball, was a school cashier, sang in the Glee Club, and participated in the Farewell Assembly. She was described as "ambitious", friendly", and a "future nurse".

William Edward Peck was also in the Vocational curriculum and a member of Hi-Y and Town Meeting. William was described as being a "good dancer" and being "very friendly".

(Harold Hilton joined the Air Force after he left Fort Hill. Upon being discharged he took a Federal job in Washington, D.C., had three children, and still visits home in Cumberland on occasions.)