The Lunenburg County Historical Society is sponsoring an essay contest for eighth-grade students in Lunenburg County.

To be eligible, the student must attend a public school, a private school or be homeschooled. The private school may be outside Lunenburg County as long as the student’s legal residence is within the county.

The theme for the essay is “How My Family Came to Lunenburg County.” The essay must be submitted as follows:

1. The essay must be typed in a standard 14-point font with black ink, doubled-spaced, on one side of 8½ x 11-inch white paper, not to exceed two sheets, without pictures (If unable to present a typed essay, the student must notify the teacher from whom instructions were received; the historical society will try to accommodate such students).

2. The essay must have been created solely by the student and written in English.

3. A cover sheet containing the following information must accompany the essay when submitted: Name of contestant, name of parent/guardian, mailing address, telephone number and e-mail address.

4. The submission deadline for eligible students is Friday, April 29, 2016, at 3 p.m. The essay is to be submitted no later than the stated deadline to the main office at Lunenburg Middle School. The entry and cover sheet must be placed unfolded in a large manila envelope addressed to the attention of Brenda Wade.

The essay will be judged on interpretation of the theme, vocabulary and style, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Winners will be announced by May 9. Prizes will be awarded for first place, second place, third place and honorable mention. Each winner will receive a monetary award and be recognized in the local newspapers.