On Saturday, April 26, 2014 the New-York Historical Society hosted the first annual NYC Urban Debate League Elementary School Championship in the stately Patricia D. Klingenstein Library.

The topic, “Was New York City a good place for African Americans in the 1800” proved to be a topic of intense discussion for elementary school children, but they were well-prepared, and offered their arguments — pro and con — with thoughtfulness, strong voices, and composure.

When the matches ended the teachers critiqued each student. After the scores were tallied, each of the winners received a trophy. The first and second grade champions also received a copy of the David Bruce Smith/Clarice Smith book, American Hero: John Marshall, Chief Justice of the United States.