The U.S. Capitol Building has contained several time capsules for the good of the U.S .citizens.
Time capsules are an ancient tradition dating back to the 7th century BC. Leaving object buried for future generations to find is a tradition that has become part of several cultures. These ceremonies differ and the items contained inside are different, but marking of the capsule to be found and opened on a specific date in the future makes one contemplate how different the world will be when the capsule is opened.
First-Time Capsules
The first-time capsules were used to preserve documents or items of interest to future generations. They are considered a way to share culture and history that might be lost over time as people forget or change stories passed down from one generation to another. These capsules were buried in foundations of building or near landmarks that would lead to the easy recovery of the time capsule in the future. The first time that it was recorded and buried was in the 7th century BC by Esarhaddon, who was the king of Assyria.
Masonic Time Capsules
The Freemasons use their cornerstone ceremonies as a way to deposit time capsules to be found by future generations. Their ceremonies are symbolic and use allegories to tell the story of the cornerstone of King Solomon's Temple. As part of the ceremony a cornerstone that is hollow is often used. Once the stone is placed and anointed with corn, wine and oil which symbolize sacrifice a capsule is placed in the stone. Often with a master key to the building, newspapers of the time, photos of people who work or were part of the buildings construction and a program from the ceremony for the laying of the stone. These are found when buildings are renovated or when a building is raised.
Crypt of Civilization
One of the most famous and compete time capsules is known as the Crypt of Civilization located at Ogelthorpe University. The capsule was sealed on May 28, 1940, with instruction to be opened May 28, 8113. This was the date that would double the amount of recorded human history, according to Dr. Thornwell Jacobs, who compiled the materials in the capsule. The time capsule contains microfilm, photos and items that document the entire history or human existence up to the time the capsule was sealed.
Time Capsules for Celebrations
Time capsules are also placed at times of celebration. There was a time capsule placed to celebrate the centennial of the United States of America. The time capsule that was placed near the steps of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. was opened as directed during the bicentennial at which time a new time capsule replaced the one just opened. This is a common tradition among people to mark time at important events in history.
Most Wanted Lost Time Capsules
Burying a time capsules is usually done carefully so it can be found and opened at the time requested. However, some rather famous time capsules have been missing or were stolen before they could ever be buried. The most famous is the George Washington cornerstone for the U.S. Capitol Building. The War of 1812 and several renovations to the building caused the original cornerstone to be lost. The building has been searched and the stone and time capsule were never found. It is not known if Washington actually placed a time capsule in the cornerstone.
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