Every year the D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution) hosts an essay contest for grades 5-12.  The topic is American history related for 5th-8th grades and Christopher Columbus related for high school level.  Entry is made at the local chapter level where winners are then sent to the State level.  After State is the Regional and then National.  Chapter winners should receive bronze medals and certificates. State winners should receive certificates and silver medals. National winners should receive special certificates, medals, and a monetary award.  Some chapters and states will also give monetary awards for their winners.

If interested, check the National site (http://www.dar.org/natsociety/chapters.cfm) to find a local chapter or you can contact June ( junebug@mahanclan.clearwire.net), a Homeschoolblogger who is a member of the D.A.R.

2006-2007 American History Topic: "Jamestown Colony is Settled."
To help commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Jamestown, take on the persona of one of the early settlers. Write a letter to your family members who remained in England, and tell them about the activities and hardships involved with helping to establish the settlement. In your letter, be sure to include information about your fellow settlers, as well.

2006-2007 Topic:" The Christopher Columbus Essay Contest topic is:  "At Sea or at Home: Different Perspectives on the Voyage to the New World."
Relate the story of the first expedition of Columbus viewed from the perspective of one of the following: an ordinary seaman, Queen Isabella, or a shipboard rat.