On a crisp Saturday morning, December 16, 2023, the residents of Rockwall County gathered for a historic event—the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule dedication. The ceremony, held in a circular garden nestled between the courthouse and Rockwall County Library, marked a momentous occasion for the tight-knit community. Guided by the Master of Ceremonies, Lorne Liechty, the day was filled with pride, gratitude, and a sense of shared history.
As Lorne Liechty, stood before the assembled crowd, he shared sentiments that echoed the essence of Rockwall County. “Everyone who lives here knows that Rockwall County is a special place,” he began. “Whether you lived here all your life or lived here a month, it is special.” Lorne went on to highlight the unique features that define the county, from the serpentined rock wall that winds its way through the landscape to the expansive beauty of Lake Ray Hubbard, which graces the western border. With pride, he noted that Rockwall County holds the distinction of being the smallest county in the state of Texas.
Lorne delved into the historical significance of the region, recalling the year 1873 when the Texas Legislature acknowledged the distinctiveness of the community. “The fact that we are the smallest county in the state of Texas. All of these things and many more make Rockwall County special,” he emphasized. This recognition culminated in the creation of Rockwall County as a separate entity—a celebration that reverberated 150 years later in the form of the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule.
Lorne revealed that the idea for the time capsule originated from the Rockwall County Historical Commission and the Historic Foundation. The community was invited to contribute items, creating a collection that would capture the essence of the county in 2023. “In 1873, the State of Texas recognized that our community was special, and passed legislation creating Rockwall County as a separate county. Now, 150 years later, we are excited to celebrate that event by burying a time capsule that will contain items special to our County and to this Sesquicentennial year,” Lorne explained.
Following Lorne’s introduction, Judge Frank New shared a proclamation that underscored the historical significance of the occasion. Gratitude flowed as Judge New thanked the creative volunteers from the Historic Foundation for their dedication to preserving and celebrating the county’s rich history. The proclamation served as a bridge connecting the past to the present, acknowledging the efforts of those who have tirelessly worked to make the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule a reality.
Commissioner Dana Macalik, adding her voice to the momentous occasion, expressed her excitement at being part of history. Her words resonated with the community as she encouraged everyone present to recognize the importance of their contributions to the time capsule. Commissioner Macalik exclaimed, capturing the collective sentiment of a community invested in preserving its legacy.
The Time Capsule and Its Contents:
As the ceremony continued, attention turned to the time capsule itself. Positioned in a carefully chosen location, the circular garden provided a fitting backdrop for the burial of a capsule that would encapsulate the spirit of Rockwall County in 2023. The symbolic act of entombing the time capsule emphasized the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage for generations to come.
- What is the most famous time capsule?
- Answer: The Samuel Adams and Paul Revere Time Capsule, also known as The Massachusetts State House Time Capsule, is a time capsule located in a cornerstone of the Massachusetts State House. It is widely believed to have been buried in 1795 by then-Governor Samuel Adams and Paul Revere.
- What was the oldest time capsule ever found?
- Answer: In Wschowa, western Poland, researchers uncovered presumably the world’s oldest time capsule. The unique find dates back to 1726. It was extracted from the sphere crowning the tower of the parish church.
- How do I create a time capsule?
- Answer: Time capsules must avoid temperature changes, relative humidity, and ultraviolet light exposure. Use a secure container, preferably stainless steel, to protect the contents. Ensure the container has a long-lasting seal to safeguard the items until the intended recipients open the time capsule.
The Rockwall County Sesquicentennial Time Capsule dedication was a celebration of history, community, and the enduring spirit of a place that has stood the test of time. As the community buried its collective memories and aspirations, it did so with the knowledge that future generations would unearth a piece of their story—a story that speaks of a community proud of its roots and excited about its future. Thriving communities, like Rockwall County, are built on the foundations of mutual support, and this time capsule serves as a testament to the enduring bonds that connect the past, present, and future.
Here is the list of what was buried in the protected secure container:
Rockwall County Historical Foundation: 2023 150th Ornament, Texas Rangers hat, grocery list of current prices
Rockwall County Judge Frank New: Letter to the Citizens of Rockwall
Rockwall County Historical Commission: Minutes, BOD photo, historic presentation
Rockwall County: Map of the County
Rockwall County Sheriff’s Department: 2 shirts, towel, pins, patch
Rockwall Parks & Recreation: Fun Guide
Rockwall ISD: 2023 Time Capsule yearbook
Royse City ISD: Football Homecoming Ribbon and Card with letter
City of Fate: Thumb drive and police patch
City of Heath: Christmas ornament, photos of Council, Heath empty water bottle with letter about water shortages, map with letter about the city
City of Mobile City: Texas Monthly Article
City of Rockwall: Yearbook
City of Rowlett: Police and Fire Challenge Coins, City Map, Sculpture Brochure, Celebrating Rowlett Letter, Police and Fire Award Banquet Program
City of Royse City: Mayor Challenge Coin, Police and Fire Challenge Coins, RC Joy Button, Map of the City
Dr. Stanley B. Scott, Jr.: 2023 Proof Coin Set
Rockwall County Commissioner Dana Macalik: Manila Folder
State Representative Justin Holland: Challenge Coin
Congressman Pat Fallon: Challenge Coin
State Senator Bob Hall: Challenge Coin
New Hope Baptist Church: 164th Anniversary Program
Blue Ribbon News: Newspaper
Agri-life Extension: Agri-life brochure, seeds
Please take a moment to share in the comments what items would you include in a time capsule? Thank you for reading!
