Jeannette Historical Society seeks submissions for time capsule to be opened in 2047

Members of the Jeannette Historical Society are looking for submissions to possibly be included in a time capsule that will be opened in 2047.

The capsule, which is on display in the front window at the society’s Clay Avenue museum, will be buried outside City Hall on Sept. 24 during the Glass City Heritage Festival. Submissions can be any type of artifact or memorabilia related to Jeannette and the current time, said Donna McCullough, activities director.

“This is a crucial time in history, what we’ve been through,” she said. “So it will be interesting to look back on it in 25 years.”

The society has embarked on several time capsules over the decades. One was buried in 1962 and removed in 1988. It was reinstalled that same year and then opened in 2013 as part of the city’s 125th anniversary celebration.

Items unearthed in 2013 included newspaper articles, VHS tapes, letters, glassware and other items. That time capsule is on display at the museum.

Some items have already been collected for the new one, which McCullough said was donated by Elliott Group. Those items include several Tribune-Review newspapers from the last couple years marking important events, food advertisements, business cards and restaurant menus.

Community submissions will help the society reinvigorate a project its late leader, John Howard, spearheaded before an illness and the coronavirus pandemic. McCullough said members thought it was a good time to resume the project.

“When ... better than when we’re having our heritage festival to have a ceremony of its burial?” she said.

Submissions for consideration are due Sept. 8. Members will make final determinations as to what is included. Items can be dropped off at Cafe Italiano on Clay Avenue or next door at the society’s museum when it is open every Thursday from noon to 4 p.m.