AUSTIN, Texas (KAUZ) – Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.C., has announced the opening of the 2026 Save Texas History Essay Contest, which encourages 4th and 7th-grade Texas students to explore formative topics in Texas history.
Previous essays have explored a range of topics reflecting Texas’s rich history and diversity, from the history of cattle drives to the historical and cultural influences on Texas barbeque.
The two grand-prize winners will receive a $500 gift card sponsored by Chris Cantu of Kingsview Partners and two nights in Austin at the Hampton Inn and Suites University/Capitol. The five finalists in each grade will receive $100 gift cards sponsored by the Moses Austin Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. The Texas General Land Office and its essay contest sponsors will also provide additional prizes to all finalists and winners.
“As a proud ninth-generation Texan, preserving Texas history is one of my top priorities,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “Every year, we encourage Texas students to contribute to this crucial task of safeguarding our past through the GLO’s Save Texas History Essay Contest. I am always inspired by reading the many vibrant essays from our next generation of leaders. Challenging our youth to participate in research and writing essays rooted in the rich history of their unique Texas communities is a vital part of our mission to not only educate but also preserve the state’s many cherished stories, documents, and artifacts.”
The Texas General Land Office Save Texas History™ program focuses its efforts on supporting and funding the preservation and promotion of over 35 million historic maps and documents, along with the education of the general public about their rich heritage.
For more resources on the contest, visit its website.
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