The place to be before the recent QVC West Chester Christmas Parade was the historic Lincoln Building.

There, the 20th Annual Gettysburg Address Contest featured seven local middle-schoolers. Among friends, family, and parade-goers below, the “Little Lincolns” proudly recited the Gettysburg Address from the Lincoln Building balcony.

Hosted by the Chester County Community Foundation and the Historical and Architectural Review Board, the event recognized and celebrated the 155th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address and the 20th anniversary of the local competition.

Louise Sims from Fugett Middle School, Dharshini Saravana from Fugett, and Liam Mullin from Saints Peter and Paul School placed first, second, and third, respectively. Additional contestants included Lila Rose Ramirez-Gabr from Saint Agnes School, Ava Felsenfeld from Fugett, Max Moak from Pierce Middle School, and Ananya Mudigonda from Fugett.

Contestants were also judged on Best Costume, which Mullin won. Cash prizes and certificates were presented to all. Judges included Dr. John Noakes, Kelley Meagher, and Dr. Kate Shaw.

Bob Gross, who founded the event and acted as Master of Ceremonies, gave each finalist a large Lincoln coin engraved with the Gettysburg Address. A representative from State Sen. Andy Dinniman’s office also presented each contestant with a certificate, and State Rep. Carolyn Committa was present to congratulate each contestant and recognize Joe Martino for the contest’s 20th year.

Mariette Yost Chow, who won the original contest 20 years ago, was also in attendance.

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