Win Up to $1,500: James City County Historical Commission Announces 2025 Student Essay Contest

If you're a high school student in Williamsburg or James City County with a passion for history—or just love a good writing challenge—this is your moment.

The James City County Historical Commission is officially accepting entries for its Fall 2025 Student Essay Contest, and winners could earn up to $1,500 in cash prizes.

Who Can Enter?

The contest is open to all high school students (grades 9–12) who live in James City County or the City of Williamsburg. That includes students attending public or private schools—or those who are homeschooled.

What to Write About

Students must submit a 1,000–1,500 word essay on one of the following historical topics:

1. The Railroad – Trace the development of railroads in James City County. Include service history, depot locations, and which companies were involved.
   
   
2. African American Schools – Research early Black schools in the area. Who built them? What role did they play in the community?
   
   
3. The Battle of Greensprings – Explore this Revolutionary War battle, its importance, and its location relative to other key sites like Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Richmond.
   
   

Essays must follow Chicago Manual of Style citation format and include a bibliography and footnotes or endnotes. Cover pages and citations won’t count toward the total word count.

Note: Generative AI use is not allowed—this must be your original work.

How to Submit

🗓️ Deadline: Monday, December 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM
📩 Submit entries online through the official James City County portal (link at jamescitycountyva.gov)

Award winners will be notified by January 15, 2026, and invited to a public award ceremony with the James City County Board of Supervisors.

Prizes

🥇 First Place: $1,500
🥈 Second Place: $500
🥉 Third Place: $250

Why It Matters

This contest is more than a chance to win some prize money—it’s an opportunity to connect with Williamsburg’s deep roots in American history. Whether you’re exploring the Battle of Greensprings or uncovering untold stories about African American education, you’ll gain insight into our area’s rich past.

As a Williamsburg real estate agent and military spouse, I love seeing young people get involved in civic history. Programs like this make our community stronger and more connected—especially for families relocating to the area for assignments at Joint Base Langley-Eustis or the Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown.

Have questions about living, learning, or getting involved locally? I’m always happy to help.