Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest (Grades 9–12)The Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest invites high school students to deliver an original, researched speech about the American Revolutionary era—and connect it to the United States today. Students compete locally, then may advance to Illinois state and national levels where scholarships and cash prizes are awarded.
Who Can Enter
  • Students in grades 9–12 attending public, private, parochial, or home schools.
Your Oration
  • Length: 5–6 minutes. 
  • Topic: An event, person, or document of the Revolutionary War era; clearly explain its relevance to America today. S
  • Delivery: Presented from memory; no notes, props, or costumes. The spoken oration should match the submitted manuscript. 
  • Manuscript: A written copy of your speech is required for judging and advancement. 
How Judging WorksOrations are typically evaluated on:
  • Composition (clarity, structure, originality)
  • Delivery (memorization, poise, diction, timing)
  • Significance (strength of the “why it matters now” connection)
  • Historical accuracy & relevance (sound research; correct facts) 
Contest Progression & Awards
  • Local Chapter → State → National. Most students begin at an Illinois SAR chapter contest, with winners advancing to the Illinois state contest and then nationals (held during the annual SAR Congress). Scholarship awards are made at state and national levels. 
  • National awards change periodically. Check the NSSAR website for the latest details.
How to Apply in Illinois (3 Easy Steps)
  1. Connect with your nearest Illinois SAR chapter
    Use our chapter directory and map to find the best local contact for you (students, parents, and teachers are all welcome to inquire).
  2. Prepare your materials
  • Your 5–6 minute memorized oration (and matching manuscript)
  • Any entry/biographical forms your chapter requests (chapters often use the national forms).
  1. Submit & present
  • Coordinate your chapter-level contest date and submission deadline with your local chapter contact. Chapter winners will receive instructions for the Illinois state contest; the state winner advances to nationals. (Deadlines vary by chapter.) 
Key Links for Illinois
  • Find an Illinois SAR Chapter (map & contacts): Illinois Chapter Listing.
  • Illinois Youth Programs overview: Youth Programs (includes Oration).
  • National contest page (rules & current awards): Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest. 
Tips for a Strong Entry
  • Choose a focused Revolutionary topic you can connect to a modern issue—civil liberties, civic duty, leadership in crisis, etc. 
  • Build from primary sources and reputable histories; fact-check names, dates, and quotes.
  • Practice timing—aim to finish around 5:30–5:45 to allow a natural close within the 6-minute limit.
Questions?If you’re unsure which chapter to contact, start with our Illinois Chapter Listing or use the Contact page on the Illinois SAR website and mention the Rumbaugh Oration Contest—we’ll route you to the appropriate chapter or state chair.