America's 900-Pound Time Capsule to Be Buried in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026

A 900-pound stainless steel time capsule, commissioned by Congress and created by NIST, will be buried in Independence Mall, Philadelphia, on July 4, 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The capsule contains hundreds of items from U.S. states and territories, including a beaded buffalo by Apsáalooke/Arikara/Hidatsa artist Karis Jackson, a feather from Civil War eagle Old Abe, a North Atlantic right whale bone, and a Petoskey stone. The Library of Congress contributed synthetic DNA encoded with Francis Scott Key's 'Star-Spangled Banner' lyrics, Thomas Jefferson's draft of the Declaration, and a 3D image of Abraham Lincoln's hand. Designed to prevent water seepage, the cylinder is sealed with compressed indium and will be covered by a half-ton stainless steel bell jar. A sculpture inspired by Benjamin Franklin's 'Join, or Die' cartoon will mark the site. The capsule is intended to be opened in 2276 for the nation's 500th birthday.