UNADILLA — A half-century of local memories will be revisited on Sunday, July 5, when the Unadilla Friends Church opens a time capsule buried during the nation’s Bicentennial celebrations in 1976.
The unveiling, scheduled for 1 p.m. at the church, 747 County Route 2 in Rogers Hollow, is the centerpiece of a daylong gathering that organizers hope will bring together longtime residents, former community members and younger generations.
The day will begin with a worship service at 10:30 a.m., followed by a free community picnic at 11:30 a.m. at the Community House across from the church.
After the time capsule is opened, festivities will continue on the church lawn with old-fashioned games, face painting, music, a piñata and a bicycle giveaway for one child. Historic exhibits and demonstrations are also planned.
Among the featured attractions will be a presentation by the New York Wildlife Rescue Center, highlighting the organization’s work rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing birds of prey and other native wildlife.
Organizers are encouraging anyone who lived in the area in 1976 to bring photographs and memorabilia for display. Additional exhibits will include a collection of vintage clothing presented by The Green Giraffe and a quilt created in 1976 by members of the Otsego County Pomona Grange.
The celebration will also look ahead to the future. Attendees will have an opportunity to contribute items for a new time capsule that will be opened in 2076 during the nation’s tricentennial. Contributions may be submitted in an envelope labeled with the donor’s name, the intended beneficiary and a brief description of the item.
Organizers say the event is intended not only to commemorate local history but also to preserve a record of contemporary community life for future generations.
For additional information, call 607-563-8083 or call or text 607-434-0651.
