the collision of two Dreams
Tim Kinnetz and a TIME CAPSULE Dream
Started as part of the Milford, Iowa, 125th Quasquicentennial celebration, the Milford Time Capsule Project was the vision of community leader Tim Kinnetz. Tim noticed that time capsules were missing from the celebration. He considered the excitement a time capsule could have contributed to the party and wanted to make that event a reality for future generations and celebrations. Thus, he set the Milford Time Capsule project in motion.
Initially in 2017, four vaults were filled with current community items of interest and emplaced at 1212 Okoboji Avenue in Milford, Iowa. Every 25 years, a capsule will be opened, revealing history from years prior. The capsule will then be refilled with new items from the current year and replaced in the existing location to be opened in 100 years.
The "Keepers of the Capsule" are local volunteers who pledge to preserve the Milford Time Capsules and enlist new Keepers every 25 years. The current Keepers are the 2016-2017 Okoboji, Iowa, 4th grade class. Their commitment will ensure that the time capsule project reaches its next destination – Milford's 150th Sesquicentennial celebration in 2042.
What is a time capsule?
Simple Definition: A container that is filled with things (such as newspapers or clothing) from the present time that is meant to be opened by people at some time in the future.
Full Definition: A container holding historical records or objects representative of current culture that is deposited for preservation until discovery by some future age.
1212 Okoboji Avenue
Milford, IA 51351
Two Teachers and a PBL Challenge: Our story began several months ago. Emily Schaefer (OHS Counselor) and Kerrie Baish (OHS Teacher) started with a vision of creating an aesthetic space for students to enjoy on our high school campus. That idea evolved into creating a public space for community member to enjoy. We thought having our students design this space from start to finish, engaging all of the necessary steps including the collaboration of all government officials and local experts, would encompass valuable exposure to a wide array of skill sets and careers.
At the very least, we hoped that our city would entertain us through the design process.Our goal was for students to end the project with a culminating presentation during which one design would be chosen by a team of judges consisting of city leaders and community members. At best, we hoped our students would realize their dream and create a legacy - provide some small town nostalgic charm and see a park come to fruition. Never did we imagine what was about to unfold.....
From the beginning
Where we are now
Together, our collaborative efforts began in June. Tim coordinated a meeting with all team members and the planning began. Meetings ensued with city government officials. We then presented our plans publicly at the Quasquicentennial closing ceremonies. Mayor Reinsbach, the 4th Grade Keepers of the Time Capsules, and Mrs. Anderson, OHS retired Social Studies teacher also shared in this celebration.
Today, we are polishing our final plans. We are setting the stage for preparing student leaders and we are ready to roll up our sleeves for the real fun as we move forward on January 8th.
We will keep you posted with Facebook entries, new photos and video footage which will be forthcoming on our "Journal" page located at the top right hand side of this webpage.
Be on the lookout for the addition of our store which will be added later in January after the winning design has been named. This page will allow patrons and contributors to purchase items such as benches, stones, or trees and shrubs. You will also be able to contribute financial gifts on this page. Stay tuned.....