The Sons of the Republic of Texas, SRT, are pleased to announce the submission period for the 2025-2026 Texas History Essay Contest is now open. The essay contest is open to all graduating high school seniors, including home-schooled students.
Awards for successful essays will be presented to the winners at the annual San Jacinto Day observance on April 21, traditionally held on the steps of the San Jacinto Monument. First place essays will win $4000; second place essays, $3000; and third place essays will be awarded $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 can be seen 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 be evaluated via 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. This is not a book review. The reviewers are looking for submissions that show thorough research, are historically accurate, adhere to the designated topic, are well-written, and are entertaining to read. For more detailed guidance and complete rules for the contest, go to the Community tab of the SRT website at www.srttexas.org.
The SRT designates a different topic for the essays each year. Traditionally, the topic has focused on a specific historical figure or event. However, this year, the Sons have laid out a fairly broad topic that affords the student a broader opportunity to explore Texas history. The topic this year is “Tejano Heroes in Revolt for Texas Independence.”
All entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2026. Students are encouraged to begin immediately.
The Sons of the Republic of Texas is dedicated to preserving the memory and spirit of those who fought for and maintained Texas' independence. Membership is open to male descendants of Republic of Texas residents. For more information, visit srttexas.org.
