During the demolition of Owatonna High School in Owatonna, Minnesota, USA, construction workers made an unexpected discovery—a time capsule dating back to 1920 amidst the rubble. The capsule was stumbled upon as the crew was dismantling the school’s front pillars and doors. Today, during a community event, the contents of the time capsule were unveiled. Among the items found inside were a list of teachers and administrators at Owatonna Public Schools in 1920 and a high school magnet. Additionally, the capsule contained a school newspaper, three local newspapers, and financial statements. Time capsules serve as repositories of a place’s memory, capturing the essence of a specific moment or group of people.
Jeff Elstad, the superintendent of the school district, discussed the discovery with Fox Television Stations, expressing excitement about uncovering the time capsule. He emphasized the significance of delving into the community’s history and recognizing the visionaries who established a school to benefit future generations. While the exact contents of the time capsule remained unknown until its unveiling, Jeff noted that items such as newspapers and local historical artifacts are typically included. He found it enjoyable to unearth items that shed light on the schools during that era. The Owatonna High School Museum Committee has partnered with the Steele County Historical Society to carefully dry and preserve the items. After preservation efforts, decisions will be made regarding which items will be displayed at the school and which will be added to the historical society’s collections.
Jeff highlighted how the discovery has provided valuable insights into local history and expressed appreciation for the historical significance of the time capsule. He affirmed his commitment to preserving history for future generations, underscoring the importance of continued efforts in this regard.
