The Peru Gazette

CLINTON COUNTY, NY – Clinton County celebrated its past and looked toward its future on October 23 at the John H. Zurlo County Government Center, opening time capsule boxes preserved for five decades and sealing a new capsule to be opened on October 23, 2076.

Held during America’s 250th anniversary year, the ceremony brought together former and current County officials, employees, families, and students to reflect on the community’s history and preserve a record of life in 2026.

“Today is about more than opening a time capsule. It is about remembering where we came from, recognizing the people who served our community, and preserving a piece of our lives today for the generations who will follow us,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry.

Preparations brought an unexpected discovery: what organizers initially believed was one time capsule box turned out to be ten. Former legislators Janet Duprey and Robert Garrow, who served in 1976 and helped place the original capsule, returned to help open boxes during the celebration.

“When we placed these items in the time capsule, we were preserving a little piece of Clinton County for people we might never meet,” said Duprey. “To be here today, sharing this moment with former colleagues, current County leaders, and young people who will carry our community forward, is truly special.”

“This brings back memories of the people we served with and the work we did together for Clinton County,” said Garrow. “It is wonderful to see that history remembered and to know that another generation will have the same opportunity when the new capsule is opened in 2076.”

The ceremony recognized former legislators and staff, honored their contributions, and remembered those who have passed away.

Beekmantown Middle School teacher Amy Criss and sixth-grade student leaders representing the Class of 2033 joined the celebration. The students contributed letters describing their lives, sharing their perspectives, and predicting what the world might look like in 2076. Their participation connected the County’s history with a generation that may return to open the new capsule in 50 years.

Representatives of the County’s past, present, and future joined together to seal the new capsule, which contains materials documenting County government, community life, and the priorities shaping Clinton County today.

Chairman Henry thanked County Historian Anastasia Pratt for helping safeguard the historical materials and preserve their stories for future generations. He also recognized the County Clerk, County staff, local schools, and others who contributed to the celebration and new capsule.

The original boxes and their contents will be displayed at the Government Center over the coming months, allowing residents to explore this snapshot of Clinton County’s past. Following the display, the materials will be transferred to the County Historian for safekeeping and preservation.

The newly sealed capsule will remain in the County Clerk’s secure custody until a new stone faceplate is completed. It will then be secured at its designated location until October 23, 2076, when America celebrates its 300th anniversary.

“We are preserving not only objects, but memories, community pride and a connection between generations,” Henry said.