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100 Years Ago, Worcester Spelling Bee Champ Competed Nationally
Sarah Louise Van Allen's spelling prowess captivated the city in 1926.
Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:26am
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In 1926, 12-year-old Sarah Louise Van Allen won the Worcester County spelling bee, becoming a local celebrity for her impressive language skills. After her victory, Van Allen went on to compete in the national spelling bee competition.
Why it matters
Van Allen's story highlights the long history of spelling bees in the United States and the role they have played in showcasing young talent, particularly among marginalized communities. Her success as a young Black girl in the 1920s is a noteworthy achievement that challenges the racial barriers of the era.
The details
On May 25, 1926, Sarah Louise Van Allen won the Worcester County spelling bee sponsored by the Worcester Telegram and The Evening Gazette. She correctly spelled a number of challenging words to emerge victorious in the local competition.
- On May 25, 1926, Van Allen won the Worcester County spelling bee.
- In 1926, Van Allen went on to compete in the national spelling bee competition.
The players
Sarah Louise Van Allen
A 12-year-old Black girl from Worcester, Massachusetts who won the 1926 Worcester County spelling bee.
Worcester Telegram
A local newspaper that sponsored the Worcester County spelling bee in which Van Allen competed.
The Evening Gazette
A local newspaper that sponsored the Worcester County spelling bee in which Van Allen competed.
The takeaway
Van Allen's story serves as an inspiring example of how spelling bees have provided a platform for young people, particularly those from marginalized communities, to showcase their intellectual abilities and achieve recognition.
