Samuel Adams and Paul Revere time capsule

The Samuel Adams and Paul Revere Time Capsule is a time capsule located in a cornerstone of the Massachusetts State House. It is believed to have been buried in 1795 by then-Governor Samuel Adams and Paul Revere. It is the oldest known time capsule in the United States.^[1]

The time capsule is a metal container measuring 5-1/2 x 7-1/2 x 1-1/2 inches, and weighing about 10 pounds (4.5 kg). It was first removed from its location in 1855, at which time its contents were cleaned and documented. Additional items were added to it at that time, and it was resealed in place. The capsule was again removed from its location in December 2014. X-ray examination by conservation specialists at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts revealed the presence of coins and other items. It was opened by specialists in a media event in the American gallery of the museum on January 6, 2015.^[2] Its contents include newspapers pages of the period, and coins including a rare 1652 Pine tree shilling. There was also a silver plate, probably engraved by Revere, and a copper medal depicting George Washington. The objects will be placed on display for a time, before being returned to the time capsule.^[3]

References