Eastport's Soul

Eastport's Soul. . , Many African American families settled here more than a century ago. Predominantly migrating from West River (Deale/Churchton) and plantations and fields in northern Calvert County. These families, who have lived here for more than five generations, are the heart and soul of this neighborhood. Most of the lots sold to them were closest to the water, as the land was marshy and waterfront property was not as desired as it is today. Their religious, educational, and cultural buildings are pillars of Eastport life., The building across the street was acquired by Anne Arundel County in 1873, later used to establish a school for "colored" children. The school opened in 1917. The earliest record indicates that children received their education at "Eastport Mission" (Mt. Zion Church) at least since 1901. Integration to the Eastport Elementary School at Chesapeake and Fifth Street began in the winter of 1962 with the first and second grade classes. Marita Carroll was hired as the first Black teacher at the newly integrated school., After closing as a school, the building has been home to the Seafarer's Yacht Club, a private club whose members are primarily African American., [Captions:] , Reverend Joseph J. Turner was highly regarded by the congregation of Mt. Zion Church, as well as its "sister" church, John Wesley., The original Mt. Zion Church was established in 1890. The church has expanded multiple times over the decades. Today, the descendants of its founders and the since expanded Black community, still gather for worship and fellowship at its 612 Second Street location., The original church was in Mr. James Anderson's backyard. The cornerstone of a building was not laid until 1896.