For the first time, The Bahamas will have a national time capsule. It stands as a testament of Bahamian legacy, honoring the 50th anniversary of Bahamian Independence.
Young military cadets in full military uniform carefully carried the capsule containing valuable pieces of Bahamian history.
These items include a copy of The Bahamas Constitution; historical calendars and note cards from the department of archives; memories from the Independence Golden Jubilee celebrations; music; newspaper clippings; cook books; arts and crafts; and more. There are seventy-one items in the capsule.
Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Cynthia A. Pratt oversaw the ceremony, assisted in concealing the capsule, and encouraged the participants, including the many children who were there to take part in a history-making event. Twenty-five years from now on the country’s 75th anniversary of Independence, the capsule will be unsealed, along with a message to the 75th anniversary committee.
Minister Of Education the Hon. Glenys Hanna- Martin delivered the Prime Minister Philip E. Davis’ speech on his behalf: “This is a dream envisioned by the National Independence Secretariat – a Time Capsule Project to preserve who we are today for the generations of tomorrow.”
“In every corner of our beloved nation, communities answered the call. Committees were formed. Historic treasures were gathered. And with great care, these items were wrapped and packed to be sealed away for 25 years, waiting to be unveiled during our Diamond Jubilee Anniversary in 2048.”
The items were carefully curated and preserved by the Independence Secretariat in partnership with the Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation.
Independence capsules will also be concealed throughout the Family Islands, including Cat Island at Hero’s Garden in Industrious Hill; The Harold DeGregory Building in Freeport, Grand Bahama; the Government Complex Roundabout in Central Abaco; and many other locations throughout the archipelago.
Chair of the National Independence Secretariat Her Excellency Leslia Miller-Brice remarked: “This is a day for remembering milestones”, noting that the capsule was concealed on November 26, 2024, the 62nd anniversary of women first voting in The Bahamas.
“As we celebrated our 50th independence anniversary, this capsule also captures who we are at this moment in history,” she added. “We are a nation celebrated for our contributions to sports, music, literature, fashion & leadership.”
