Tuesday, April 21, 2026
-News Release-
The City of Rome is excited to announce a new contest during Georgia Cities Week, an opportunity to celebrate what makes Rome special. Students across Rome and Floyd County are invited to showcase their creativity and community pride through the “Unearth the Story of Floyd County” writing contest, encouraging young writers to explore and celebrate local history through storytelling.
Students in grades 5–12 are encouraged to submit an original poem or short story inspired by a historic place or meaningful location within Rome, Cave Spring, or anywhere in Floyd County. Entries should reflect personal experiences, historical significance, or what makes a location special, helping bring the stories of the community to life.
Submissions will be accepted from April 20 through May 15, 2026, with one entry allowed per student. All entries must be original works, no longer than two pages, and connected to the theme of a local historic site.
Winning entries will receive prizes, including a Chamber of Commerce gift card valid at local businesses, and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons. Submissions will also be displayed at the Floyd County Library, where the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite entries from May 18–22. The contest winner will be announced on May 26, 2026.
“This contest is a chance for students to connect with the places that shape our community and tell the stories that make Floyd County special,” said Samantha Bishop, contest organizer and senior planner at The Rome-Floyd Planning Department.
Participants may submit their entries at designated drop-off locations, including the Floyd County Library and the Planning & Zoning Office in the Carnegie Building.
The contest is presented by the Rome-Floyd Planning Department, Floyd County Library, City of Rome, and Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism. The contest is held to coincide with Historic Preservation Month and the nationwide America250 celebration.
For complete contest submission details, visit romegeorgia.org/writingcontest
