William E. Sheedy History Contest

Middletown’s Third Graders Explore Their Past

            The Middlesex County Historical Society is pleased to announce that the William E. Sheedy Memorial History Contest is underway.  Each spring Middletown third graders are invited to research the life of an ancestor and report their findings in an essay format.

            The contest taps into the students’ innate inquisitive spirits and hones their research skills as they use a variety of techniques as well as primary and secondary sources to create their depictions.  They interview family members, dig up old newspaper clippings, and unearth photographs and documents to explore the connections between a loved one’s life and the era in which he or she lived.

            Each year the entries represent an impressive variety of cultures and experiences, from immigration in the early 20th century to American life during the depression to Colonial-era values.   Many, too, reveal with humor and poignancy the significance of good deeds and the importance of family.  While many students benefit from the contest through their discovery of remarkable accomplishments, unusual talents, or acts of courage, it is often the values and words of wisdom quietly passed on that make the biggest impression.

            Materials have been distributed to the Middletown Public Schools and some private schools.  Third graders from Middletown who are home schooled or attend private schools may participate by contacting the Society at 860-346-0746 to receive a packet of instructions.  Entries are due at the Society, located in the General Joseph Mansfield House, 151 Main Street, Middletown, no later than 5:00 pm on April 5.  A reception will be held for all participants on Thursday, June 7 at 6:00 pm at the Mansfield House.