Hughes, Meeks, Whelchel write winning DAR essays

Brenda Sparks, Regent, left, Daniel Morgan Chapter DAR, is pictured with Caleb Samuel Hughes, Josh David Meeks and Charlotte Hartman. Miranda Whelchel was not present when photo was made.

The Daniel Morgan Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently held its American History Essay Contest for students in grades five through eight and the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest for students in the 11th grade. Topics are selected each year for the student to prepare their essays.

"I Spy - Espionage During the American Revolution" was the category for the fifth through eighth grades. Caleb Samuel Hughes of Draytonville Elementary was the first place winner for the fifth grade while Josh David Meeks of Ewing Middle took first place honors for the eight grade.

Miranda Logan Whelchel, an 11th grader at Gaffney High School, won first place in the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest with her essay, "How did the four voyages of Columbus change our perception of geography and later world economics?"

"We are very proud of these students and the work they have done to promote our country's history," said Charlotte Hartman, chairperson. "This is one way for students to learn and participate jointly with their schools and the DAR program."

Eighteen women met on Oct. 11, 1890, to officially organize the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution for historic, educational and patriotic purposes, and it is now in its second century of service to the nation. Any woman 18 years of age who is lineally descended from a man or who, with unfailing loyalty, aided in the cause of American Independence is eligible for membership in the DAR.

A prospective member must be able to prove her lineage back to an ancestor who served the American cause during the American Revolution. Any woman wishing to join a local chapter may contact the Cherokee Historical Society, 864-489-3988, for information and applications.