The Sons of the Republic of Texas are pleased to announce that the submission period for the 20252026 Texas History Essay Contest is now open.
This essay contest is open to all graduating high school seniors (including homeschooled students). Awards in the following amounts will be presented to the winners at the annual San Jacinto Day observance on April 21, 2026, traditionally held on the steps of the San Jacinto Monument: Prizes will be First Place - $4,000, Second Place - $3000 and Third Place - $2000 The purpose of the Texas History Essay Contest is to encourage students to explore the pioneer spirit of Texans on the early-day frontier, their methods of accomplishing goals under very difficult circumstances, and the results of their efforts that we can see today. It is also hoped that the contest will inspire students to further pursue education, foster an interest in Texas history, and inspire them to contemplate their own roles in the future of Texas.
The entries will be redacted of information identifying the author, be numbered, and then go through a blind review by members of the SRT. Finalists will be selected and those entries will be reviewed by a panel at Sam Houston State University. During that final review, the entries will be scrutinized for plagiarism and use of artificial intelligence.
