‘America’s Time Capsule’ set to bury treasures from all 50 states this weekend
A time capsule has been filled and sealed in preparation for America’s 250th birthday celebration on Saturday.
by Summer Lane | July 3, 2026
The United States turns 250 years old on Saturday, and to pay homage to the first two and a half centuries of epic American history, officials are filling a time capsule with key cultural artifacts from all 50 states.
“America’s Time Capsule” has officially been filled and will be buried on July 4, 2026, at Independence National Historical Park, according to America250.
The capsule was created at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and a detailed list of all items within has been organized on the America250 website by state, territory, and more. Alabama, for example, included a contribution of five poems reflecting the spirit of the American founding. Alaska donated its state flag, along with a map of New Archangel, “from the time period that Russia sold Alaska to the United States, ca., 1867.”
California contributed a letter from its governor, Florida included a set of four challenge coins, and Maine donated a letter (also from the governor), a poem, a whale bone, and more memorabilia.
According to Fox News, the capsule weighs 900 pounds.
The time capsule project was established in 2016 in the America250 founding public law, which also established the Semiquincentennial Commission with this important task. The capsule will not be opened until 2276.
“Unlike traditional box-shaped time capsules, it is constructed as a precision-milled stainless steel cylindrical vessel built to rigorous federal specifications,” America 250 explained on its site. “Its tubular design minimizes structural vulnerabilities, while a protective metal bell jar creates an air pocket to guard against moisture. Built for durability and longevity, America’s Time Capsule is designed to ensure that when it is opened in 2276, its contents remain dry, intact, and ready to tell the story of America at 250.”
The nation will celebrate its Independence Day on July 4 with an epic event in Washington, D.C., “Salute to America,” featuring military flyovers, musical performances, and an address from President Donald Trump.
Photo: Adobe Stock
