Congress wants to bury time capsule to be opened in 2276

Congress wants to create a time capsule that won’t be opened until July 4, 2276, when the United States of America turns 500. The capsule will be buried on the Capitol’s west lawn in 2026, when America celebrates its semiquincentennial. 

“One of my favorite lines in the musical ‘Hamilton’ — ‘Legacy? What is legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden we won’t get to see.’ I think this qualifies for that,” Rep. Joseph Morelle D-N.Y., said. “I suspect I won’t be here at the opening of the time capsule.”  

The legislation passed the House and still needs approval in the Senate.

The capsule will contain: 

• Books, manuscripts and other literature related to the United States’ 250th birthday.
• Copies of important legislative and institutional milestones in Congress.
• A message from the members of the 119th Congress to the 244th Congress 
• Any other items congressional leadership considers appropriate  

“As we face new challenges in a time of deep division, partisanship and extremism, this anniversary serves as a reminder to our shared responsibility to uphold the values of liberty and equality championed by our founding fathers,” Morelle said. 

The architect of the Capitol will be responsible for preparing the capsule to be sealed and buried. 

“The upcoming anniversary marks a powerful testament to the resilience of the American experiment. Our nation has faced countless tests to our strength and unity — including a civil war, two world wars, natural disasters and more,” Morelle said. “Yet through each challenge this country has stood strong and remains committed to fulfilling the ideas set forth in the Declaration of Independence nearly 250 years ago.”

America’s 250th birthday will be a yearlong celebration in D.C. with a stunning fireworks display and music on the National Mall on July 4.

Certain sections will be open to the public, other areas will be ticketed, so for anyone who wants to be in the nation’s capital for the big day — it’s best to start making plans sooner than later.