The Nancy McKay Harsh Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is again sponsoring the annual DAR American history essay contest.
This year’s title for grades fifth through eighth is “The Lives of Children During the American Revolution.”
The topic is to pretend you are a boy or girl during the colonial fight for freedom. Using historical facts, discuss how the war is affecting your life.
The war dramatically changed the lives of children during the Revolution. Some actually followed their fathers into battle. Others stayed home and assumed new responsibilities necessary for their family’s survival.
You may portray either a historical child or fictional child living in the era of the American Revolution.
The title for ninth through 12th grade is “How Do Americans View Christopher Columbus and George Washington?”
Both of these men are considered heroes from whose lives Americans can draw beneficial lessons. Discuss the similarities and differences between the ways Christopher Columbus and George Washington dealt with and overcame the challenges and adversities they faced. What can Americans apply to their own lives from the experiences of these men?
A $10 cash gift, medal and certificate will be awarded to the local winner in each of the fifth- through eighth-grade levels and the winner of the Christopher Columbus essay contest.
Winning entries will then be sent to the state society. State-level winners will be chosen there and forwarded to the district and national contests.
It is open to all students in public and private schools and also to those who are home-schooled.
The deadline for entries is Dec. 16, and should be sent to Bonnie Riepe at 2537 Nuthatch Ave., Afton, IA 50830. For more information and a copy of the rules, contact Riepe at 641-346-2566 or email briepe@iowatelecom.net.