A Middleburgh Central School District student has won first place in the statewide Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest, advancing her to the national competition.
Sophomore Brianna Devlin was eligible for the statewide competition after winning regionally through the Leatherstocking chapter of the SAR. The essay competition required high school students to submit 800-1,200 words based on an event, person, philosophy or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence or the framing of the United States Constitution.
Devlin wrote about Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight in the American Revolutionary War. Devlin’s essay received the highest marks based on historical accuracy, clarity, organization, grammar and spelling, and documentation.
“Brianna is an exceptionally gifted student, talented in writing and artistic expression,” history teacher Jason Dannible said. “Brianna is naturally curious, tolerant, and has the desire to learn and improve herself. She embodies the SAR ideal of e pluribus unum (Out of many, one.) I am privileged to be a part of her education, and she has brought great honor to our school district and her family.”
SAR will select the national winner in mid-May.