Hello from Wells Village Library!
On Saturday, July 23rd at noon, we will hold a special ceremony to bury a beautiful new time capsule on the town green. This free-of-charge public event is possible due to Stewart's Shops' generous support through their Holiday Match program.
This very special program originates with Wells resident, Walter West. Upon visiting a local historic schoolhouse, Walter shared with the current property owners that his elementary school class participated in a time capsule burial back in the 1940s. The property owners then reached out to Gina and with funding from Stewart's Shops, we've been able to plan a meaningful community-centered afternoon inspired by both Walter's memories and the generous spirit of the property owners.
Attempts to find the time capsule Walter remembers burying as a student of former school teacher, Theodore Jerome, have thus far uncovered only bits of metal, nails, and an old cola can -- no capsule.
If we're able to find the old treasure prior to the ceremony on the 23rd, we'll share the contents with guests by creating a display and include something from the old capsule in the new one.
Be sure to follow updates on the Wells Village Library Facebook page, Front Porch Forum and the library's website (listed below) to learn whether the old capsule has been located.
Under consideration for inclusion to the new capsule are a 2022 postage stamp, a COVID-19 test, drawings from local children, Lake St. Catherine-related mementos and other items specific to present day. In 25 years, the town plans to unearth and open the capsule hopeful that some who attend the upcoming ceremony will be there to enjoy its rediscovery.
Wells' Select Board chairman, Don Preuss, will be Master of Ceremony. Professional photographer Hank Waxman is generously volunteering his services to document the occasion. The library will distribute time capsule kits to the first twelve families who arrive so they can later create a special event of their own. "Nan," the library mascot will be present to interact with guests, and there will be a themed sheet cake and cookies. We're even trying to drum up some music!
The ceremony will be held as planned light rain or shine; however, if severe weather is forecast, the alternate date is Saturday, July 30th at noon.
For more information, please contact Wells Village Library at 802.645.0611 or by email at wellslibraryvt@gmail.com. You may also like us on Facebook at Wells Village Library or check out our website at www.WellsVillageLibrary.com.