Finding the Frenchman: Lafayette Portrait, Poem, & Essay Contest
Kentucky students K-12 have the opportunity to submit an original poem, a 150–300-word essay, or a portrait highlighting Lafayette’s role in American and Kentucky history. The Kentucky Historical Society will honor the winners of each category by featuring their work as part of the Lafayette Bicentennial celebration on May 17th, 2025. This competition is open to all public, private, and homeschooled students in Kentucky.
Questions? Please contact Olivia McCants.
Click here to download a .pdf contest flier.
Please email contest submissions to Olivia McCants by December 15, 2024, and include the student's name, grade (or equivalent), contest category, and contact information.
Guidelines by Grade Level:
Elementary (grades K-5 or equivalent)
Love history and art? Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette visited Kentucky in 1825, and Kentuckians created a special painting to celebrate him. Using historical paintings of Lafayette, historical accounts, or your imagination, create your own masterpiece to celebrate America’s favorite fighting Frenchman!
All art submissions will be judged by KHS staff, and the winning portrait will be announced and displayed at Kentucky’s Old State Capitol building during Frankfort’s Lafayette celebration. Artwork size should be no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches.
Middle (grades 6-8 or equivalent)
Love American and Kentucky history? Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette visited Kentucky in 1825, and Kentuckians wrote to share their gratitude for his service. As Kentucky celebrates the 200th anniversary of his visit, write an essay describing Lafayette’s role in shaping American and Kentucky history.
All submissions will be judged by KHS staff, and the winning essay will be read aloud and displayed at Kentucky’s Old State Capitol building during Frankfort’s Lafayette celebration. Essays must be between 150-300 words in length.
High (grades 9-12 or equivalent)
Love American and Kentucky history? Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette visited Kentucky in 1825, and Kentuckians wrote poetry to express their gratitude for his service. As Kentucky celebrates the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit, write an original poem highlighting Lafayette’s role in shaping American and Kentucky history.
All submissions will be judged by KHS staff, and the winning poem will be read aloud and displayed at Kentucky’s Old State Capitol building during Frankfort’s Lafayette bicentennial celebration. All poems must be no longer than 150 words in length.