The Colonel William Allen Chapter of Smithfield is sponsoring the annual Daughters of the American Revolution Essay contest for local students in grades fifth through eighth.

The essay topic this year deals with the Boston Massacre and the role it played in organizing colonists against the King and Parliament. The contest is open to students in public, private and parochial schools and the home schooled.

Entries are due by Oct. 30. For further information and full entry requirements, contact Caroline Hurt at 757-357-4737 or rohurt@charter.net.