Emmitsburg Creates a Time Capsule
James rada
Have you ever thought about what life in Emmitsburg was like in 1976? Some of you may have lived here then, but chances are you’ve moved in since then, or you weren’t even born.
Now think about how residents in 2076 will look back on life in town now.
Well, the Town of Emmitsburg wants to make sure that when those future residents consider life in 2026, they have as good a perspective as possible.
Emmitsburg Town Operations Specialist Brandy Malocha has been spearheading the development of a time capsule for the town.
“I came up with the idea and thought it would be a fun event to celebrate the USA’s 250th anniversary,” Malocha said.
The time capsule is cylindrical and about 16 inches in diameter. It also has the town seal on the side. It resembles a giant mug or, perhaps, an old-time moonshine jug. It will include letters, photos, stories, business information, newsletters, and articles.
Town residents are invited to submit their own items for inclusion to Malocha at BMalocha@EmmitsburgMD.gov or by calling her at 301-600-6300. The items submitted need to be paper. The time capsule isn’t big enough to hold solid or large items.
“It’s a good-sized capsule that has ample room for all of the items we’re collecting,” Malocha said.
Often, time capsules are buried or placed in a hollow cornerstone of a building. Emmitsburg’s time capsule will be kept under lock and key and on display at 22 E. Main Street, where town officials also hope to open a welcome center and museum.
Although time capsules are often hidden away for 100 years or more, this one will be opened in 50 years.
“Originally, we planned on 100 years; however, we thought it would be fun for the school kids who are contributing to be able to be here in 50 years when the Town opens the capsule,” Malocha said. “They can look back at what they wrote or what dreams they mentioned, etc.”
This may be the first time capsule created for Emmitsburg. The plan is to seal the time capsule at Emmitsburg Heritage Day in June, but whether that will be a big event or a low-key ceremony has yet to be decided.
For now, Malocha is busy gathering items that will help our future children and neighbors understand us better.
Thurmont Lions Club Nears Fundraising Goal for Gold Star Family Monument
The Thurmont Lions Club is making significant progress toward the creation of a Gold Star Family Monument to be placed in Thurmont Memorial Park, honoring families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty.
To date, the club has raised $48,000 of the $62,000 required to begin construction of the monument. Fundraising efforts will continue throughout 2026 to close the remaining gap.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the monument is scheduled for June 2, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., with the dedication ceremony planned for September 27, 2026. Both events will take place at Thurmont Memorial Park and are open to the public.
The Lions Club credits the success of the campaign to the generosity of community organizations and residents. Major contributions have been received from Thurmont Masons, Operation Second Chance, the American Legion, and the AMVETS in Emmitsburg and Thurmont. In addition, the club has hosted numerous fundraisers and community events to support the project.
The Gold Star Family Monument is intended to recognize and honor the families—parents, spouses, and children—who have endured the loss of a loved one while serving the nation or community. For Gold Star families, the monument will provide a place of remembrance, reflection, and connection, while also standing as a visible expression of the community’s gratitude and support.
Organizers say the monument represents not only sacrifice, but also unity, ensuring that the families of the fallen are never forgotten.
Community members interested in supporting the project are encouraged to attend upcoming fundraisers or contact the Thurmont Lions Club for additional information. Please mail donations to P.O. Box 306, Thurmont, MD 21788. Make checks payable to the Thurmont Lions Club and write Gold Star in the memo.
