Abram Maury Writing Award

Celebrate History Through Creativity

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County is proud to announce the Second Annual Abram Maury Writing Award, inviting Middle and High School students to explore our local history through the lens of creative writing. This award celebrates the legacy of Abram Maury, the recognized "Founder of Franklin." In 1799, Maury established the town, drawing on his vision, community-building, and professional surveying skills. This award encourages today's students to channel that same spirit of creativity and vision.

Important Dates:
Essay Submission Deadline - Friday, February 13th, 2026 by midnight (CST)
Awards Ceremony & Reception - Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 at 6:00 PM (CST)

Ready to bring a historic Franklin home to life? Click the link below to submit your essay and enter the competition. Please ensure your submission is received by the deadline: Friday, February 13th, 2026, by midnight.

Submit My Essay →

2026 Writing Challenge: Love Letters to Old Homes

This year’s title is meant to be taken light-heartedly in an effort to enjoy the beauty of the historical homes in Williamson County. Taking note of the physical architecture of the buildings along with the life and memories known or simply perceived by the author. *Inspired by the Children’s book: A House that Once Was by Julia Fogliano and Lane Smith

This year, we challenge students to bring the past to life using "Personification"—the attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something nonhuman.
- Creative Writing Style: Personification

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENT: In your essay, you must explicitly include the address of the historic home to which you are writing your letter.

Who Should Apply
- This contest is open to all Middle School and High School Students.

Prizes
Middle School Essay Winner: $150.00 prize
High School Essay Winner: $200.00 prize

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Last Year's Winner

Last year's topic was "Franklin: A Unique Place to Call Home." We were honored to award our first-ever Abram Maury Writing Award to Clara Deck.

You can read her winning essay below...

Read Clara's Essay Here →