Philadelphia children send messages to 2076 through Smith Memorial Playground time capsule

Hundreds of Philadelphia children have contributed letters, drawings and recordings to a time capsule at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse that is scheduled to stay sealed until 2076, according to 6abc Action News.

The project, called "Hear Us! The Children's Time Capsule," is tied to the nation's 250th anniversary, both 6abc and CBS Philadelphia reported. CBS Philadelphia noted that the opening date of 2076 will coincide with America's 300th birthday. The capsule will be kept at the Smith Mansion in Fairmount Park, the station said.

CBS Philadelphia reported that children across the city wrote their letters over the summer, describing daily life and their hopes for the future. Along with letters, the collection includes artwork and audio recordings, according to the station.

Frances Hoover, executive director of the playground, told 6abc that the institution is more than 125 years old and that its history has mirrored that of the city's residents. She said certain pastimes appeared again and again in the submissions, including the video game Roblox and the cartoon SpongeBob. "A lot of kids wanted to talk about 67," Hoover said, according to 6abc.

The children's messages touched on both hobbies and worries. One boy who wrote about his love of video games told CBS Philadelphia he was concerned about artificial intelligence taking over people's jobs. Another child told both stations he hoped the playground would remain open and serve as a safe place for future generations of kids.

Adults also took part. Hoover told CBS Philadelphia that messages came from people ranging from well-known musicians to a father writing to his children decades from now.

The capsule was marked with a celebration at the playground featuring live music, arts and crafts and other activities, 6abc reported. According to the station, 100 limited-edition 2026 commemorative coins were handed out, and attendees signed a scroll that will be sealed inside the capsule.

WDAS radio personality Patty Jackson spoke at the event about honoring the city's past. "We must always remember where we're from, where we came from," Jackson said, as reported by 6abc.

The project is still accepting contributions. Both outlets reported that letters, artwork and recordings can be submitted through Nov. 30. CBS Philadelphia said a participation kit is available on the playground's website for children who want to leave their own messages.

Compiled by True News from reporting by 6abc Action News and CBS Philadelphia. Each outlet's original story is linked below.

Originally published by True News: https://truenews.bagleyenterprises.net/stories/866