Crypt of Civilization Time Capsule

The oldest millennial time capsule in conception and the largest in the world

About the Crypt

The Crypt of Civilization at Oglethorpe is the oldest millennial time capsule in conception and the largest in the world. In 1936, detailed plans were executed to build an extraordinary time capsule– one designed to store records for over 6,000 years, done on what could perhaps be described as an epic scale never before conceived. The visionary of this improbable quest was Oglethorpe University president Dr. Thornwell Jacobs, who has been called “the father of the modern time capsule.”

Jacobs was convinced that his generation could be the first to perform what he later called “our archaeological duty.” This was an obligation to provide for future historians a thorough and accurate record, scientifically selected and preserved, of life in the twentieth century.

“The first successful attempt to bury a record for any future inhabitants (of planet Earth)”- 1990 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records

A few facts about the Crypt:

  • The Crypt of Civilization time capsule at Oglethorpe University was sealed on May 28, 1940
  • It is not to be opened until May 28, 8113.
  • There is no gold, jewelry or other items of value inside the Crypt.
  • The Crypt is located in Phoebe Hearst Hall at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
  • No, you can not go inside; but you can visit the sealed stainless steel door!