Unearthed: 1987 Suffolk County Girl Scouts time capsule discovered during excavation
Excavation work centered around the Northport Historical Society and Museum’s Access for All Project uncovered an important piece of local history that might otherwise have remained hidden. Photo courtesy of NHS.
What began as excavation work for the Northport Historical Society and Museum’s Access for All Project turned into an unexpected journey into the past when construction crews unearthed a long-lost time capsule buried by the Suffolk County Girl Scouts nearly 40 years ago.
The discovery was made during construction of the new accessible entrance ramp, on the building’s west side, and first-floor ADA-compliant restroom, part of a major accessibility initiative currently underway at the museum.
Dated May 25, 1987 (Memorial Day), the time capsule was originally buried by the Suffolk County Girl Scouts with instructions that it be opened on their 100-year anniversary in 2012. However, after extensive searching, the capsule could not be located and was presumed lost.
“When the capsule was uncovered, everyone was thrilled,” said Terry Reid, executive director of the Northport Historical Society and Museum. “Finding something that had been hidden for nearly 40 years and thought to be lost forever is exactly the kind of discovery that makes local history so exciting.”
The time capsule contains a fascinating collection of materials documenting the activities and accomplishments of Suffolk County Girl Scouts during the 1980s. Among the items recovered are: a letter from the scouts that organized the project; a videotape; a program commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Suffolk County Girl Scouts; photographs; a program from a Girl Scout induction ceremony held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in March 1987; a letter from newly formed Brownie Troop #1702, detailing the troop’s activities during its first year after its inaugural meeting on October 21, 1987; a program from a Promise Circle Celebration held on March 12, 1987; additional documents and memorabilia that offer a unique glimpse into Girl Scout life in Suffolk County during the late 1980s.
The Northport Historical Society and Museum is currently working to carefully preserve and restore the contents of the capsule. Once restoration is complete, the items will be incorporated into a special display planned for the museum’s reopening following construction, anticipated in late July/early August.
The discovery serves as a reminder that history is often found in the most unexpected places.
The society encourages anyone who participated in the 1987 time capsule project, or who recognizes any of the names, photographs or materials found inside, to contact the museum and share their memories.
Follow the Northport Historical Society and Museum here.
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