09/23/2026
ANNOUNCING: Class of 2027 Essay Contest
Please
Sumner County high school seniors are invited to submit an essay with an opportunity to win $1,000.
Referring teachers will be entered into a lottery to receive $500 towards classroom supplies/resources.
Essays must be received by November 6, 2026
Essay prompt and additional details: www.sumnerpreservation.org/essay-contest
Direct questions to: [email protected]
PROMPT: The American Story We Inherit: Sumner County at America’s 250th
In 2026, the United States commemorates 250 years since the signing of our Declaration of Independence. America’s history is not found only in famous documents, national monuments, and distant battlefields. It also lives in the people, places, events, and traditions of communities like Sumner County.
Choose a person, place, event, or historic resource from Sumner County that reveals something meaningful about the American story. What does it teach us about the ideals, opportunities, struggles, or responsibilities that have shaped our nation? Also, as America begins its next 250 years, explain what your generation should carry forward, what it should learn from, and how you personally intend to participate in the civic life of your community and country.
Possible forms of participation might include voting, participating in local government, serving others, preserving community history, engaging respectfully with people who disagree, among others.
