The Underground Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, based in Columbia, has announced a student essay contest, inviting young writers to explore the history of freedom seekers and abolitionists who helped shape the nation and left a lasting imprint on Lancaster County.

The contest encourages students to write 500 to 1,000 words about an individual with links to Columbia who participated in Underground Railroad activity, or about a site in Columbia linked to the Underground Railroad. Essays should be based on research, interviews, or both. A cash prize will be presented to one winner in each of three age groups: grades four to six, grades seven to nine, and grades 10 to 12. Winners will be recognized during a gala event at the Lancaster Marriott Hotel on Saturday, Sept. 12.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, May 15. Rules and forms can be downloaded by visiting http://www.ugrrmuseumpa.org and clicking "Essay Contest."

The initiative is part of the Underground Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania's broader educational mission to preserve and share the stories of those who sought freedom and those who helped them. By engaging students in research and writing, the museum aims to ensure that these stories continue to inform and inspire future generations.

For more information, email info@UGRRMuseumPa.org or call 717-461-3491.