The capsule has been updated with new items from the year 2025 to commemorate the occasion. The time capsule ceremony was held at the school situated at 41 Liberty Street, drawing several hundred attendees. Among those present were school staff and administrators from the district, current students, alumni, elected officials, and various guests, all gathering on a warm and sunny morning.

When the capsule was removed, the items inside, which were 71 years old, appeared to be in excellent condition. An inventory of the contents was conducted, and the list was read aloud to the assembled crowd.

Some of the items enclosed within the capsule include a photograph of the school during its construction, a painted image of the school dated June 25, 1953, a handmade Spanish language book, a copy of the sixth-grade class song, and a copy of The Post-Journal newspaper from 1954. Additionally, there is a brochure for the program guide related to the 1954 cornerstone laying ceremony, along with other historically significant artifacts. All of these items will be preserved locally and archived by the Bemus Point Historical Society.

Furthermore, the current student body, faculty, and administrative staff have collaborated to curate a selection of items intended to replace the cornerstone, which is anticipated to be unveiled in a period of 50 years or more.

A diverse group of students, teachers, school leaders, alumni, elected officials, and history enthusiasts convened to witness the removal of a time capsule dated 1954 from Bemus Point Elementary School, located at 41 Liberty St. Once the items inside were extracted, they were carefully preserved by the Bemus Point Historical Society. P-J photo by Christopher Blakeslee

Nikki Whalen, a fourth grade teacher’s aide and alumnus, mentioned that items to be included in the 2025 Time Capsule will feature the 2025 program invitation; a photo of Bemus Point Elementary School Spirit Wear; a picture from the 2025 Field Day Staff Inflatable Race; a list of national parks challenge showing the parks listed in the geographic area; a copy of the 2024-2025 Bemus Point Elementary School yearbook, cast photos from the Winnie the Pooh school play program; classroom pictures; a ceramic piece crafted using the school’s new kiln machine; a computer drive containing photos and newsletters from the 2024/2025 school year; traditional Warm Fuzzies and a copy of The Story ABC-YA Later; a letter of the day calendar; and pictures from the GRAND-Celebration Story: A Social Emotional Turtle, among other items.

“We were delighted to collaborate with the Bemus Point Historical Society to unveil the Bemus Point Elementary School time capsule,” said Joe Reyda, Bemus Point district superintendent, in an email Tuesday. “It was wonderful to see the items that students had placed there in 1954. We’re thrilled that our students had the chance to experience this event. It’s something that brought our school and community together.”