Essay Contest

2026–2027 American History Essay Contest

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Are you in 5th through 8th grade? The Lucy Knox Chapter invites you to enter this year’s DAR American History Essay Contest.

This year’s topic: Announcement of the Declaration of Independence First Public Reading

“To announce independence from Great Britain, the Declaration of Independence was publicly read in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776. Following this reading, the word spread throughout the colonies in newspapers, more public readings, and posted notices. Imagine you lived in Philadelphia or an area of the colonies where news did not reach you for weeks. How would you react to hearing the Declaration read in your community? With whom would you share the news? What action would you take after hearing it? How would this have impacted your life?”

Essay prompt

Who can enter

All students in grades 5, 6, 7, and 8 in a public, private, or parochial school, and homeschooled students. If your school is not taking part, you may send your essay to the chapter yourself.

Rules at a glance

• Type the essay on a computer in a black, non-script font, 12 to 14 point.
• Use at least four sources and list them in a bibliography, with web addresses for any internet sources.
• The essay must be entirely your own work, with no help from parents, teachers, tutors, or AI.
• Include the title page. Do not add pictures or illustrations; they are not judged.

Judging and awards

Each essay is read by three judges for historical accuracy, adherence to the topic, organization, interest, originality, spelling, and grammar. Chapter winners in each grade receive a bronze medal and certificate, are invited to read their essays at our awards ceremony in February 2027, and move on to the Ohio state competition.