September 17, 2014 - SACRAMENTO - Secretary of State Debra Bowen today invited Californians to write essays or poems about their experiences using the State Archives or other historical archives and places to learn more about California. The contest seeks stories about the most interesting discoveries in these places that can make history come alive in unique ways.

"When I challenged students last spring to write about inspiring California locations, the response was great," said Secretary Bowen, the custodian of the California State Archives. "Now that summer is ending, I really want to encourage all Californians who may have had educational vacation experiences to write about their adventures."

Contest entries must be emailed or postmarked by October 31. Winners will be notified by November 10 and selected entries may be published in the State Archives "California Originals" newsletter on the Secretary of State's website.

Contest details and the official entry form are at www.sos.ca.gov/archives/events/2014-oct-history-writing-contest.htm.

For more information about the many historical treasures at the California State Archives, visit www.sos.ca.gov/archives