Rural Declamation Contest

Each spring, in partnership with the Gallatin County Superintendent of Schools, Gallatin County Bar Association hosts the Rural Declamation Contest at the Gallatin County Courthouse (old courthouse), 311 W. Main. This event was founded 70+ years ago by esteemed Judge W. W. Lessley for middle school students of rural schools in Gallatin County. Each student who participates chooses to submit a written or oral submission on the year’s topic, which are then judged by Gallatin County Bar Association Board Members, and the event is moderated by a current Eighteenth Judicial District Court Judge.  The top three written and oral submissions are awarded trophies and a total of $1,800.00 in cash prizes is provided to students each year. Each year’s event produces an impressive quality of work from the middle school students on thought provoking topics. Gallatin County Bar Association sponsors the cost of the event, including student prizes and dinner for all attendees. Attendance is open to the public. 

Past topics:

2025 "Pick an historical figure who is not alive today and show how they would handle a contemporary social, government, or legal issue from 2000 to present."

2024 “What is the most influential technology in the history of the United States before 1970?”

2023 “What person in US history, who is not alive today, had the most positive and lasting influence on the country?”

In order to support the cost of the event Gallatin County Bar Association fundraises through our scholarship fundraising efforts. To support our efforts, donate at the link below.