ORANGE COUNTY – Orange County America 250 Committee Chairman Robert Henderson has announced that the Orange County America 250 Time Capsule was sealed and hand-delivered to the Orange County Courthouse on Wednesday afternoon and placed inside the above-ground vault with detailed instructions for its opening in 2076 on America’s 300th Birthday. Accompanying Henderson during the ceremonial placement of the capsule was Orange America 250 committee member and chairman of the 250 Time Capsule project, Roger Moon, along with Orange County Clerk Elizabeth Jones. Both Henderson and Moon expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of response over the past several months and for all those who participated in the project.
In a brief update on the waterlogged 1976 Time Capsule, Henderson said committee members have been working since July 4th on the very difficult and challenging task of trying to salvage at least some of the items recovered. Efforts are underway this week to contact individuals concerning items that have been identified in some form or fashion. Unfortunately, items that were paper-related, i.e., letters, photos, etc., were significantly damaged due to being submerged in standing water for a very long length of time. Mold has also been a major concern for many of the items as well.
Henderson also noted on behalf of the Orange County America 250 Partners that as Orange County’s 250 tribute is now winding down, and the transition begun from the celebration of Semiquincentennial to “After the Fireworks” phase of America 250 activities that will carry through the end of 2026 that the opportunity now exists for Orange Countians to reflect on what the journey to the America 250 has meant to them and how they can prepare for the path ahead. “If nothing else, I hope the celebration has created a renewed interest in our own unique history, stories, and people.”
“A huge Thank You goes out to everyone who helped in any way to make the occasion here a most memorable one.” We are indeed grateful to all our community partners for all their efforts and hard work to bring the county’s America 250 tribute to fruition.
In the weeks ahead, Henderson said he will be compiling a written record and account of Orange County’s tribute to be submitted and preserved alongside other Hoosier America 250 committees in the newly constructed Indiana Achieves building, located next to the Indiana Historical Society in downtown Indianapolis.
Highlights from all the various local events and activities can be found on the Orange County America 250 Facebook Page.
