Annual Margaret Thompson Historical Essay Contest
Children from grades three through six are invited to participate in the Margaret Thompson Essay contest through their schools. Essays are written covering a specific theme. Each year hundreds of essays are judged by community members. Prizes are awarded by the City Council at an ice-cream social in the garden of the Los Altos History Museum.
Winners at each grade level receive $50 for first place, $30 for second place and $20 for third place. All entrants receive a certificate of participation. In addition to individual prizes, the school with the most winners will be awarded a trophy.
The City and the History Museum will provide information on entering the contest in the Spring 2025.
A video that correlates with the LAHM changing exhibit "Rooted in time: Journey Through Hidden Villa" is provided at the following web link: https://youtu.be/k-viLY4Dqpk
2025 Essay Contest Theme - "Rooted in Time: Hidden Villa"
Walk through the green gate and come to explore the rich history and natural beauty of Hidden Villa.
Begin your journey through the eyes of Frank and Josephine Duveneck. Follow in their footsteps as you
experience the lasting legacy that they left behind on this land. Discover the stories that are brought to
life through the photos, narratives, and artifacts. Appreciate the roots and heritage of this special place.
Come to the Museum any time before March 1, Thursday-Sunday, 12-4 p.m., to view this exhibit. For
more information on this exhibit, please visit this website:
https://www.losaltoshistory.org/exhibit/rooted-in-time/
Also, you could visit Hidden Villa during their Centennial Celebration this year. Their many events honor
100 years since Hidden Villa was founded. Hidden Villa is located in Los Altos Hills and has a farm with
animals, many hiking trails and more. Their website is https://www.hiddenvilla.org
Writing Prompt
To begin, think back to an experience you had at Hidden Villa or at a similar place your family visited
together. This could be a local park, a National Park, a forest, a rock canyon, or another natural habitat.
Have a conversation with your family to reflect on your adventures. Here are some questions to bring
your memories to life:
Where did you go on your adventure? What did you do when you were there? What sounds did you
hear, what sights did you see, what items did you touch? Who joined you on this experience? What will
you never forget about this special place?
Either before or after writing, illustrate your memory with a drawing, painting or photograph. Your visual
contribution will enhance your personal narrative, but its inclusion is not part of the rubric. (It is not
required to send in a visual.)
Now, take your memories and use them to tell us your personal story. As you write, use interesting
vocabulary and communicate your ideas in a creative manner. Originality and descriptive language are
greatly encouraged. You are encouraged to include your drawing, painting or photos with your personal
narrative when you submit it. We can’t wait to read about your adventures in the great outdoors!
Essay Contest Documents
2024 Essay Winners
A list of the 2024 essay winners and their essays can be viewed here: https://www.losaltoshistory.org/education/historical-essay-contest/
