Confederate Time Capsule Found Buried Under Monument In Kentucky After 121 Years

A 121-year-old Confederate time capsule was unearthed Monday under a Confederate monument near the University of Louisville.

CONFEDERATE TIME CAPSULE UNEARTHED IN KENTUCKY

Much of the contents had been destroyed by water, but researchers are working to uncover what had once been buried inside. Among relics believed to be present are a cigar from Confederate President Jefferson Davis, various coins and Confederate currency, and a likeness of Gen. Robert E. Lee.

“It’s hard to say at this point whether the box was sealed at all,” said Sarah Lindgren, the city’s public art administrator, who was present when the brass box was opened. “It certainly isn’t now and pieces are falling apart.”

Lindgren also said that several initial items were connected to the Civil War, including memoirs and a Bible. A Courier-Journal from May 1895 reported that the capsule contained bits and pieces from “the South’s great men and her lost cause.” If any items are recoverable, Lindgren says they will be donated to the Filson Historical Society.

The time capsule was discovered after the much-disputed decision to remove the Confederate monument was executed. Dismantling the 70-foot-tall soldier began Saturday and cost about $400,000. It will be moved to Brandenburg, Kentucky, where it will be used as part of the city’s Civil War reenactments.