What was life like in Prince William County in the 80’s?
For some that question was answered with the recent opening of the time capsule at Tackett’s Mill in Lake Ridge.
According to a press release from Prince William County, the capsule had been buried under the brick floor of the Old Mill on March 29, 1985. It was opened on May 29, the 50th anniversary for the founding of Lake Ridge.
Filled with items suggested by the children of Prince William County at the time, the contents included a rotary phone, a copy of the “Potomac News” Newspaper, a vinyl record of the Go-Go’s “We Got the Beat,” and many other items.
Occoquan District Supervisor Ruth Anderson was joined by members of the community for this look back in time.
“It was exciting. Thirty-four years doesn’t seem like a horribly long time to me, but it is interesting how much has happened in 34 years. I’m so glad people had the forethought to create the time capsule,” remarked Anderson.
Also among the attendees were members of the community who had contributed to the contents of the capsule. One such member, Chris Purdham was 13 when one of his essays was selected to be placed inside. He was interested in the inclusion of the rotary phone.
“I think the telephone was the most profound thing in there — a rotary telephone, compared to what we have today? I’m sure they didn’t envision the phones that we have today,” he spoke.
For anyone interested, the contents will be on public display at Lakeside during Tackett’s Mill Summerfest from 1 to 4 p.m. on June 5, according to Tackett’s Mill Center CFO Nancy Kyme.
This article was written by Contributing Writer Patricia Keitz.
