News Release

2019 Old Fashioned Spelling Bee Champions at Homestead National Monument of America

Date: September 12, 2019
Contact: Charlotte McDaniel, 402-223-3514

The Old Fashioned Spelling Bee at Homestead National Monument of America was a hit once again! More than twenty spellers competed at the Freeman School on Labor Day Monday, across five categories – under 7, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, and 16 to adult. Each age category awarded a first and second place trophy, courtesy of generous support from the Beatrice Daily Sun.

Many more spectators came to cheer on and support their friends and family – just like historic spelling bees, which were a major social event for homesteaders in one-room schools across the country. Homesteaders highly valued education, and encouraged their children to learn as much as possible, especially through recitation and competition.

Participants this year ranged from 3 years old all the way to 86 years old, with special certificates awarded to our youngest and oldest spellers. Several participants shared stories of their past spelling bee experiences as children attending one-room schools. The winners of the trophies for outstanding achievements in spelling included Joy S. (2^nd) and Sam S. (1^st) in the under 7, Daniel S. (2^nd) and Liam B. (1^st) in the 7-9, Garrett S. (2^nd) and Isaiah S. (1^st) in the 10-12, Spencer B. (2^nd) and Payton S. (1^st) in the 13-15, and Phyllis K. (2^nd) and Dorothy M. (1^st) in the 16 to adult category. Congratulations to all participants!

Homestead National Monument of America has an exciting schedule of events planned for 2019. Keep up with the latest information by following us on Twitter (HomesteadNM), Facebook (Homestead National Monument of America), and Instagram (HomesteadNPS). For more information on programs or activities, please call 402-223-3514 or visit www.nps.gov/home.

Homestead National Monument of America is a unit of the National Park Service located four miles west of Beatrice, Nebraska and 45 miles south of Lincoln. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free of charge. For additional information, please call 402-223- 3514 or visit http://www.nps.gov/home.
 
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