2026 Historic Smithfield Essay Contest
Contest Theme: Roots of Today’s Liberties in Southwest Virginia
Southwest Virginia played a vital role in shaping America’s fight for freedom. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, Historic Smithfield invites middle school students across Virginia to explore the roots of today’s liberties in their own community.
Submit Today!
Deadline:
Friday, May 1, 2026
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Open to middle school students across Virginia, Grades 6 - 8
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Write an essay connecting the ideas of liberty and independence to the history of Southwest Virginia.
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Essay length: at least 500 words structured in a 5 paragraph essay with an introduction, three main body paragraphs, and a conclusion
Format: Double-spaced
Include student name, grade, school, and teacher’s name (if applicable)
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How to Submit
Mail with registration form to:
Historic Smithfield
1000 Merry Oak Way
Blacksburg, VA 24601Submit online right here!
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1st place will receive $1,000 check.
2nd. place will receive $300.
The winners and their families are invited to Historic Smithfield’s Independence Day Celebration where the winners will read their essays. Meals will be provided for the students and their immediate families.
Teacher & Parent Resources
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History & Civics (Grades 6–8):
VS.4 / USI.6 – Roles of Virginians in the Revolutionary War (Preston, Jefferson, Henry, Mason, Washington).
CE.1–CE.4 (7th grade) – Principles of democracy, constitutional foundations, civic duties, and citizen rights.
English Writing SOLs (Grades 6–8):
6.7–8.7 – Research-based essay writing: plan, draft, revise, organize ideas, cite sources.
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Coming soon!
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The Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington Digital Collections
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