The North Royalton 1976 Bicentennial Time Capsule, which was sealed 50 years ago, was opened on July 3 at the North Royalton Historical Society, as part of the Home Days Celebration and the 250th anniversary of America. Historical Society President Georgia Viehbeck, Assistant Heidi Michalske, and Mayor Paul Marnecheck were on hand for the opening of the time capsule, as dozens of excited guests in attendance watched with anticipation of what would be inside. Mayor Marnecheck welcomed guests and noted that in 1976, the population of North Royalton was half of what it is today. He then pointed out how much growth the City has had since the capsule was buried.
Some of the items removed from the capsule were discolored, but were still recognizable and able to be read. Among the notable discoveries removed from the capsule were: A list of people who had paid fifty cents to sign a sheet of paper, which was a fund-raiser held by the then newly-formed NR Historical Society. There were several editions of the Royalton Recorder, preserving headlines and local events happening right here in North Royalton. The September 29, 1976 edition included a list of the items buried in the time capsule. In addition to the Recorder, the capsule included a pet rock, two road maps, a C.B. radio slang dictionary, a pair of socks with toes, a mood ring, a resident’s birth certificate, comic book, a Bicentennial lapel pin, to name just a few.
Most of these items will remain at the Historical Society as part of the City’s historical collection for future generations to enjoy. These items and many others will be on display at the Historical Society, 13759 Ridge Road, for the public to see on August 1, from 12 – 4
