Alberta’s history comes alive with the opening of a 1955 time capsule

Provincial Archives can help Albertans preserve valuable documents


Edmonton... A time capsule commemorating Alberta’s 50th birthday, sealed in 1955, was opened Thursday at the Provincial Archives of Alberta.


Items in the capsule include souvenirs, a film of Alberta’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, an Edmonton visitor’s guide, and school medallions. The capsule was put together by the Golden Jubilee Committee to be opened in 2005 and its contents showcase how the province’s 50th anniversary was celebrated. The collection of documents and memorabilia is now available for viewing at the Provincial Archives.


“Our rich history is what makes us unique as a province and as a people and serves as a reflection of our province’s life,” said Gary Mar, Minister of Alberta Community Development. “This Golden Jubilee time capsule is just one of the many ways our proud past has been honoured, and it is very fitting that we are opening it during this centennial year.”


The Provincial Archives is responsible for safekeeping records that are of historical and cultural significance to Albertans. The preservation management program includes taking all measures to prevent or slow the deterioration of holdings, ensuring long-term accessibility to archival and library materials and information.


“As a new year draws near, Albertans may be thinking about preserving their personal and family legacy,” said Leslie Latta-Guthrie, Director of the Provincial Archives. “If our history is to survive, individually or collectively, its preservation must be thought of with care and adequate attention.”


As part of its focus on preservation, the Provincial Archives plans and hosts talks and hands-on workshops to encourage preservation of archival material held in private collections, as well as in public institutions. For more information on these sessions, call (780) 427-1750.


As part of this year’s centennial celebrations, a mammoth time capsule toured Alberta collecting memorabilia from over 200 communities. This capsule will be stored and opened in 100 years. While details are still being finalized, a permanent home for the Alberta Centennial Time Capsule will be announced early in the new year.

Contact Information

Sheri Segin

Communications

Alberta Community Development

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