Archives West Finding Aid

During a routine construction project in 2020, two known time capsules were unearthed in order to be moved to a more accessible location. It was discovered that the seal on the orignal storage area had failed, allowing water in to the capsules. Additionally, the seal on one of the capsules had also failed, letting water in to the materials and possible mold could be seen. A multi-disciplinary task group was formed to safely mitigate the mold and preserve the contents, with representatives from Biological Sciences, Archaeology, Environmental Health and Safety, Library Special Collections, Alumni, and History. The affected materials were quickly sealed in individual bags and biological containment space was built. Materials were individually transferred to a fume hood in a Biological Sciences lab, where they were safely opened and aired out. They were then cleaned and vacuumed to ensure all possilbe mold particles were removed. Once the materials could be handled, they were housed in archival folders and boxes.

The creation of the University's first time capsule, dedicated in 1939 by President Dale, was opened during the centennial celebration by President Gibb in 1989. At that time, a new capsule was commissioned to be buried for the university's 200th birthday in 2089. It was originally intended to preserve a single 2089 capsule, but when the 50 year time capsule was opened it was a unique celebration of many generations. Many of those who were present in 1939 were present for its opening and celebration in 1989! So, the Centennial Coordinator of 1989, Hal Godwin, wanted the same opportunity for those who were witnesses in 1989 to see its opening in 2039, and thus, two capsules were created.