Bucks County residents are extremely lucky to have in their midst one of the finest collections of historical items in the country, as well as a diversely active historical society and a research library almost without peer for its service area. The Bucks County Historical Society is headquartered at the beautiful and unique Mercer Museum, which also houses the Spruance Library, an extensive collection of historical books and documents concentrating on (but fortunately not limited to) Bucks County and surrounding areas.

In addition to its own ongoing series of historical-themed events and activities, the Historical Society is sponsoring Bucks and Montgomery Counties’ participation in this year's National History Day. It’s a nationwide competition that encourages junior and senior high school students to develop their communication, writing and research skills.

This year’s competition theme is “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” This covers such things as historical individuals or groups who identified and supported a cause that defended and enhanced such things as human or civil rights, a higher standard of living, justice in law, government, commerce, housing or education. The theme is not limited to American history, and creativity in project theme choice is encouraged.

Students in grades 6-8 may enter in the Junior Division, with 9th-12th graders eligible for the Senior Division. Groups or individuals may enter the Exhibit, Performance or Media categories, while only individuals may enter Historical Papers. Exhibits should encompass something similar to those that might be found at a science fair, while Performances should be theatrical productions of original student scripts or musical performances of original student scores. Media entries may include student-produced videos or computer presentations created by such applications as Microsoft PowerPoint® or Macromedia Director®. Historical Papers must follow established guidelines provided in the event’s promotional pamphlet, available from the Society.

Prizes will be awarded for First, Second and Third place entries in each category, with winners going on to Penn State University for the state-level competition.

This regional competition will take place on Saturday, March 29th from 8 am – 2 pm at Ursinus College in Collegeville. All winners must be present at the award ceremony to be eligible for the state level competition. Registration must be received by February 22, 2003, no exceptions.

Those wishing to receive the guideline pamphlet or to volunteer as a judge for this worthwhile event should contact Karen Jenei of the Historical Society’s Education Department at 215-345-0210, ext. 23.