Denton in Caroline County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Two Neighbors * Two Governors * Two States
The Citizens of Denton and Caroline County Honor Two Native Sons
— Sherman W. Tribbitt, Governor of Delaware, 1973; Harry Roe Hughes, Governor of Maryland, 1979-1987 —
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), August 10, 2019
1. Two Neighbors * Two Governors * Two States Marker
Less than a block in both directions from this site, two young men from this small town grew up as Depression-era neighbors, competed in sports, later entered public service, and rose to the highest elective office in the neighboring states of Delaware and Maryland. This unique story of success may be unmatched by any other town of this size.
Sherman W. Tribbitt and Harry Roe Hughes were both born in November (1922 and 1926, respectively); both were raised on Franklin Street (the Tribbitt home was mid-block between 1st and 2nd; the Hughes home was at the SE corner of 3rd and Franklin); both graduated from Caroline High School (SWT 1939; HRH 1943), where both were star athletes; both served in the U.S. Navy during World War II; and both were long serving legislators before being elected governor in their respective states.
It was said of Delaware's Governor Tribbitt: "Because of his iron character and vast political experience, perhaps Sherman Tribbitt was the best person at the time to weather the storms that buffeted the state...."
Governor Hughes, described as "decent, honest, efficient, low-key, and
this page online
The citizens of Denton and Caroline County take great pride in the achievements of these two accomplished men, whose lives reflect so favorably on their families and their community. Their success will serve as a lasting inspiration to the young people of future generations.
Erected 2008 by Caroline County Historical Socity, INc.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Government & Politics. A significant historical year for this entry is 1926.
Location. 38° 53.119′ N, 75° 49.975′ W. Marker is in Denton, Maryland, in Caroline County. Marker is at the intersection of Franklin Street (Maryland Route 404) and South 2nd Street, on the right when traveling east on Franklin Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 201 Franklin Street, Denton MD 21629, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Denton Schoolhouse (within shouting distance of this marker); Caroline Courthouse (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); President Roosevelt's Speech (about 400 feet away); On this spot Sept. 5, 1938 stood Franklin Delano Roosevelt (about 500 feet away); Emancipation's Close Call (about 500 feet away);
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), August 10, 2019
2. Two Neighbors * Two Governors * Two States Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on September 20, 2021. It was originally submitted on August 11, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 198 times since then and 44 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 11, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
