Seattle Genealogical Society – America 250 Writing Contest
base image by Colin O’Brien / Unsplash montage by Sheyna Watkins
HOW WAS YOUR FAMILY IMPACTED
BY MOMENTS IN AMERICAN HISTORY?In 2026, the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — on July 4, 1776. In celebration of the America 250 milestone SGS is sponsoring a writing contest.
The theme is “My Story is America’s Story.” The history of America is interwoven with the unique and diverse narratives of all those who have lived here. Entries are invited which tell the story of your family, individuals in your community, an event in history, an immigrant movement or some other aspect of personal experiences against the backdrop of America’s story. The theme is as broad as the 250-year history of our country!
Several prizes will be awarded, including $250 for the first place winner.
Submissions are due September 1. All entries meeting the guidelines (detailed on the website) will be considered. Entries will be judged on their relevance to the theme, writing style and clarity, and research accuracy. Winning entries will be published in the Journal of the Seattle Genealogical Society. Winners will be chosen by a jury made up of SGS members. Honorable mentions will be published in the Journal at the discretion of the editor. Please contact Lisa Oberg at [email protected] with any questions.
See the website for details about the style guidelines and submission rules.