Students who honored Jupiter Hammon with essays, poems to be recognized Tuesday night

The Town of Huntington's African-American Historic Designation Council Tuesday night will recognize students who participated in an essay and poetry writing contest in honor of Jupiter Hammon.

Hammon, a slave born in Lloyd Harbor, was the first African-American writer to be published in America. He was born Oct. 17, 1711. The contest was held to commemorate the month his birth.

The 29 high school students from Huntington will be presented with certificates of appreciation. Some students will receive monetary awards or gift cards for special achievement.

"This is an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of Jupiter Hammon," said Irene Moore, chair of the council. "It's also a chance to show appreciation to the students who took time to write poems and essays, and the teachers who worked with them to accomplish this task."

Tuesday night's event is free and will also feature refreshments. The program is at 7 p.m. at town hall, 100 Main St.

By Deborah S. Morris

deborah.morris@newsday.comdsvmorris

Deborah Morris is a native Long Islander and covers the town of Huntington.