A time capsule filled with treasures dating back to the early 1900s was discovered by Jesse Leitch, a land surveyor and data processor in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The time capsule was found hidden in the kitchen ceiling of Leitch’s home, which was built in 1910. Among the items discovered were a business card for a music shop that had moved from its location in 1907, a newspaper dating back to Nov. 8, 1913, and a handwritten note between “Gertrude” and “Ruth.” Leitch believes he discovered the gravestone of Helen Stuart, the woman mentioned in the letter, who died in 1996.
In addition to these personal items, the time capsule also contained a small cast iron pan believed to have belonged to a doll set, a piece that was once part of a music box, and various other items. Leitch’s children particularly loved the cast iron pan and he now feels a new connection to the past after discovering these treasures. This discovery has inspired him to create his own time capsule, potentially including music that his family has recorded on vinyl records. Leitch intends to preserve some of the items found in the time capsule and may reach out to the Grand Rapids Public Museum to see if they would be interested in displaying any of the items.
Leitch has expressed a desire to learn more about the history of his town and hopes to research the past owners of his home. He hopes to uncover more information about the people who lived in the house before him and what their lives were like. By preserving some of the items found in the time capsule, Leitch is ensuring that these pieces of history are not lost and that future generations may also discover them. This experience has sparked an interest in preserving history for Leitch and he plans to continue his exploration of the past.
The discovery of the time capsule has not only provided Leitch with a deeper connection to the past but has also allowed him to share this experience with his family. His children have enjoyed discovering the items from the time capsule and he plans to involve them in creating their own time capsule to be buried or hidden in their home. By involving his children in the process, Leitch is passing on his appreciation for history and the importance of preserving it for future generations to enjoy. The time capsule has become a family project that has brought them closer together and fostered a sense of curiosity about the past.
As Leitch works to preserve and display some of the items found in the time capsule, he is also opening up new possibilities for future discoveries and connections to his town’s history. By reaching out to the Grand Rapids Public Museum and potentially sharing these items with the community, Leitch is engaging in a larger conversation about the importance of preserving history and the stories of those who came before us. Through his own journey of discovery and exploration, Leitch is inspiring others to delve into their own pasts and uncover the hidden treasures that may be waiting to be found.
