Submitted

Each year the Van Alstyne Historical Society sponsors an essay contest four fourth-grade students.

The essays can be written about any event, person or thing that the student thinks has contributed to Van Alstyne's history.

The award ceremony was May 21 at the elementary school. The winners were announced by Assistant Superintendent Rick DeMasters and Teddie Ann Salmon.

First place was awarded to Mason Hallonquist for his essay "Whatever It Takes: A Hometown Hero". Mason wrote about his hometown hero Chris Hickson and the events that have molded Chris's life.

Second place was awarded to Daniel Morris. The title of his essay was, "My Paw Paw is Awesome". Daniel wrote about his grandfather, Doyle Morris, and the things that took place when Doyle was growing up in Van Alstyne.

Third place was awarded to Alyssa Hill. Alyssa interviewed her great-grandmother, Agnes Wallen Presley. She told Alyssa about her great-great-grandfather, "Daddy Bill" Wallen. Alyssa wrote about the Van Alstyne cotton gin's history and some of the people who worked there, including Bill Wallen.

Three students were awarded honorable mentions for their essays: Brooke Bramer, who wrote about "Teddie Ann Salmon"; Hannah Murley, who wrote about "How Grocery Stores Have Changed in Van Alstyne"; and Abigail Martin, who wrote about the "Martin Property", which once was owned by Collin McKinney.

Judges Jo Bell, Joy Dickerson and Martha Hogan said the essays get better every year, and each year they learn something new about Van Alstyne.

The essays are at the Van Alstyne Community Library in the genealogy section.

It is interesting reading, so take time to go by and read a fourth-grader's view of Van Alstyne.

You just might learn something new about your hometown.