SEYMOUR — As the United States approaches the historic 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the City of Seymour is calling on its youngest citizens to lead the celebration. Mayor Matt Nicholson’s office has officially opened a city-wide art and essay contest, inviting students to reflect on the nation’s founding principles.
The competition centers on one of the most famous phrases in American history: “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
To ensure students of all ages can participate, the city has established several divisions for both writers and artists:
Essay Contest Categories:
- 5th & 6th Grade
- 7th & 8th Grade
- High School (Freshmen through Seniors)
Art Contest Categories:
- Kindergarten – 4th Grade
- 5th – 8th Grade
- High School
The winners of the competition will see their work integrated into the city’s official “America 250” festivities. Winning essays will be published as part of the local anniversary celebrations, while the top pieces of artwork will be displayed in the halls of Seymour City Hall, allowing residents and visitors to view the students’ patriotic visions.
Submission Guidelines
Students ready to showcase their talents must meet the following requirements:
- Deadline: All entries must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
- Essays: Original written works should be emailed to mayor@seymourin.org.
- Artwork: Art must be physically “hangable” or easily displayable. Submissions must be dropped off at Seymour City Hall, located at 301-309 N. Chestnut Street.
The 250th anniversary—also known as the Semiquincentennial—will take place on July 4, 2026. Communities across the country are using the lead-up to this milestone to engage students in civic history and the enduring values of the American experiment.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to explore what these foundational rights mean to them today,” the Mayor’s office stated. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and insight our young residents bring to this historic theme.”
