Contest is open to all students in grades 9-12
The Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Orations Contest
The Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Orations contest, open to all students in grades 9-12, supports the Secondary School and SAR education objectives by perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, tragedy, and triumph of the men and women who achieved the independence of the American people. These stories are universal ones of man’s eternal struggle against tyranny, relevant to all time, and will inspire and strengthen each generation as it is called upon to defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in our public institutions.
Each year our chapter solicits entries from high school students in grades 9-12 to write and deliver an oral presentation about topics and people from the Revolutionary War Era. We select an outstanding student and award a $250 local scholarship. That student is then eligible to participate in the State contest.
Participants must write an original oration of not less than five minutes, or more than six minutes. The oration must be delivered from memory and without the use of notes or any kind of props. The subject of the oration shall deal with an event, a personality, or a document pertaining to the Revolutionary War with a mention of our nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. It is essential that each oration show the relationship it bears to America today. Evidence of historical research and creative presentation are also important. The oration will be judged based upon its composition, delivery, significance, historical accuracy, and relevance to our 250th anniversary.
Entry Deadline is January 31