Hickman County eighth graders presented research on the Trail of Tears, the early history of their county - the first of the Jackson Purchase Counties and of little Columbus, once a thriving commerce center before great floods swept the lower town into history.

The first class of the Young Historians Club is the product of cooperation among Hickman County's arts and historical groups. The school system, the Hickman County Historical & Genealogical Society, Hickman County Museum, Hickman County Library and Hickman County Arts Council worked together to sponsor research by the 12 students.

Presenting their work to a crowd of over 100 friends, family, school and elected officials, students competed for the Virginia Jewell Writing Contest. The winner, Jackson Latham, presented a history of Hickman County. Runner up Bobbi Crumble reported on the Trail of Tears, which passes through Hickman County.

Group photo courtesy of Gaye Bencini, editor Hickman County Times
Left Sheri Roberts, chair of Virginia Jewell Writing Project, presents first place award to Jackson Latham.