Time capsules, or memory boxes, are a lovely way to mark a milestone such as your child's birthday or a high school graduation. You can also use a time capsule to mark your wedding day or anniversary. There are many things you may never have thought of that can be put into a time capsule and unveiled at a specific date in the future.
Techniques
You do not have to purchase a special container for your time capsule. It can be a shoebox, an old mayonnaise jar with a lid, a plastic storage box and lid, or an old cookie tin. If you are going to leave it for many years before opening, you should consider a stainless-steel or aluminum box. If you choose to bury the time capsule in your yard, make sure everyone is aware of the location and that it is not forgotten if you move.
Once you have chosen the time capsule container and filled it, place it inside a large zip-top plastic bag to keep out moisture and dirt. You can save those little silica gel packages that come in shoe boxes or purses and place a couple of those inside, too. You do not have to bury the memory box, although that is a fun idea. A dark closet will work just as well. Just avoid attics or basements because of the heat and moisture.
Get everyone in on the action. Tell the family or group that everyone must contribute at least one item each to the time capsule. Depending on the size of your box, it could be a favorite pair of outgrown shoes, a letter to yourself or your great-great-grandchildren, an award, a favorite recipe, the first pair of mittens you knitted, hand prints, postcards, grocery receipts, ticket stubs or a newspaper.
Do not put things in the time capsule that will be needed again, especially not items that should be kept in a safety deposit box, such as birth certificates or stock certificates. These can be photocopied and the copies placed in the time capsule. Label and date everything in the memory box, and write down everyone's full names on the items or pictures.
Wrap your items in acid-free paper and place newspapers or clippings in individual acid-free plastic sleeves or bags. Avoid using color photographs, as these tend to fade over time. Black-and-white pictures can last for more than a century, or photocopies are fine.
Do not use self-adhesive tape; it disintegrates over time and leaves behind a sticky residue. Use only acid-free glue sticks or glue.
If you are sure you will be living in the same home for many years, you can take seasonal pictures out the front or back windows of the home. Taking pictures of cars, trees and flower gardens from the window can be a fun way to reflect when opening your time capsule 10 to 20 years from now.
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