January 29, 2024

Grade 11 & 12 Essay Contest - “History of My Favourite Smiths Falls Property”

Smiths Falls, ON – The Municipal Heritage Committee of the Town of Smiths Falls is pleased to announce the launch of their Essay Contest for Grade 11 and 12 students in honour of Heritage Week.

Since 1974, the third Monday of every February has been identified as Heritage Day in Canada. In 1985, the Ontario government designated the third week in February as Heritage Week which begins with the nationally recognized Heritage Day each year. Heritage Week is intended to celebrate heritage in all its forms: cultural, natural, architectural and archeological heritage.

“Each year, the Municipal Heritage Committee organizes an initiative in honour of Heritage Week to inform our community of our local heritage resources,” said Dorothy Hudson, Chair of the Committee. “Through this year’s initiative, the Town is hoping to reach young people with interest in heritage and architecture given their imperative role in the future of our irreplaceable heritage resources.”

Grade 11 and 12 students are invited to prepare a 500-word essay (minimum) on the history their favourite Smiths Falls property. The essay should focus on the history of the property or the architectural style of the building. Students are invited to conduct research or use friends and family as resources, however citations are required for resources such as books, websites, newspapers etc.

“We are thrilled to offer this exciting opportunity to the young people of our community,” said Karl Grenke, Manager of Development Services. “This contest is a way for students to think about what makes their town special by researching their favourite place, which can be anywhere in Smiths Falls. Every property has a story to tell, and this contest opens the door for youth to reflect on how they can appreciate and contribute to heritage conservation.”

Students interested in submitting an essay are invited to do so no later than February 16, 2024. Essays may be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. at Town Hall or by email to mhc@smithsfalls.ca.

For more information on the Grade 11 and 12 Heritage Week Essay Contest visit: www.smithsfalls.ca/municipalheritage.

Media Contact
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1137
communications@smithsfalls.ca