Coloring Contest Coloring Contest

2026 Historic Building Coloring Contest 

The Elizabeth Historic Advisory Board is proud to share the success of our Historic Section House Coloring Contest, held during National Historic Preservation Month in May 2026.

This community initiative invited all K-5 students in Elizabeth to explore our town's history through art by coloring the Section House. The project aimed to connect our youngest residents with Elizabeth's architectural heritage and foster appreciation for historic preservation. This year's contest saw incredible growth, with 42 entries submitted — triple the number we received last year.

The contest was made possible through collaboration with local art programs at Running Creek Park Elementary School, Singing Hills Elementary School, and Legacy Academy. The Elizabeth Pines & Plains Library generously provided space for displaying all submitted artwork and hosting community voting. Local artist Wendy Finch created the beautiful coloring page outline that brought the Section House to life for young artists.

During the three-week voting period at Elizabeth Library, community members used stickers to vote for their favorite artwork in each grade category. The enthusiastic participation from both students and voting community members demonstrated the strong connection between Elizabeth residents and our historic downtown.

Winners were announced at the first Friday Night Market in June, with students receiving coloring kits and gift cards to local Main Street businesses.

Congratulations to this year's winners:

Oliver K. (Kindergarten), Cooper Porche (1st Grade), Addison Lauer (2nd Grade), Andi Weber (3rd Grade), Melanie Phillis & Link Dee (4th Grade), Dominic Smith (5th Grade)

The Historic Advisory Board was inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm shown by Elizabeth's young artists. This initiative successfully demonstrated how historic preservation education can engage all ages in our community and help ensure that appreciation for Elizabeth's architectural treasures continues for future generations.