Contents of Time Capsule Revealed

NOTE: A social media version of this release, with hi-res, downloadable photos, video and audio clips, will be available later this afternoon at www.gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2011-09-08-Time-Capsule/ .

The mystery of the time capsule found at the former Queen Elizabeth High School site was solved today, Sept. 8, when the box was opened for the first time in 70 years.

The sealed copper box, measuring about 9x11 inches and three inches deep, was discovered in August by workers disassembling the old high school. The box has no identifying markings on the exterior and was found in the back of the building's corner stone, which was placed in 1941.

"The time capsule is a unique opportunity to learn about our past and the common bonds that we share," said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister David Wilson. "We appreciate the foresight of the high school administrators in preserving part of our history."

Mayor Peter Kelly paid tribute to the students of yesteryear.

"I'm sure when they created this time capsule, that they were filled with great excitement and curiosity about what life had in store for them," said Mayor Kelly. "In a way, by travelling back through time this afternoon, we have helped complete their journey to the future."

The time capsule was put together during the Second World War and contained copies of the Halifax Herald and Halifax Chronicle newspapers from September 29, 1941, a report from the Board of School Commissioners from 1940, a document from the Committee of School Sites and a nickel and postage stamp from 1941.

"When it opened, QEH was the largest school built in our province," said Irvine Carvery, chair of the Halifax Regional School Board and a QEH alumnus. "We are looking forward to working with museum and archival staff to preserve the contents as an honour to the history of this great school."

The event took place at Citadel High School before students, Queen Elizabeth High School alumni, members of the public, officials from the provincial and municipal governments and the Halifax Regional School Board.

Communities, Culture and Heritage and Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal will work with the Halifax Regional School Board to decide how the contents will be preserved and displayed.