City unveils contents inside of new time capsule
In advance of the installation of its new Sanibel Time Capsule on Jan. 10, the city of Sanibel unveiled the collection of items that will be preserved within it — artifacts that chronicle the milestones, events and community spirit of the city’s 15-month 50th anniversary celebration.
The city reported that carefully curated to tell the story of Sanibel as it is today, the contents of the capsule reflect the heart, history and spirit of the island community.
“Inside, future generations will discover letters from Sanibel’s nonprofit organizations and community leaders — personal reflections that capture the values, challenges and hopes that shape island life,” it shared.
Among the keepsakes will be the Sanibel family-friendly board game by designer Elizabeth Hargrave, which will be released by Avalon Hill/Hasbro in 2026, where players walk a beach-themed board, collect colorful seashell tiles — like sand dollars, scallops and shark teeth — and strategically arrange them on their player mats for points, blending easy-to-learn mechanics with satisfying tile-laying strategy and thematic fun.
Also enclosed will be one of Sanibel’s most legendary natural treasures: the elusive junonia shell, symbolizing the island’s deep connection to its shoreline and sense of wonder. Rounding out the collection is an updated reprint of “The Sanibel-Captiva Cookbook,” preserving the flavors, traditions and stories shared around island tables for decades. Coming soon, there will be an opportunity for Sanibel residents to leave their own words, hopes and reflections behind for future generations.
In partnership with the 50th Anniversary Workgroup, the city will host the Sanibel Time Capsule: Honoring our Past, Charting Our Future on Jan. 10 at 11 a.m. in front of the Sanibel City Hall.
“This meaningful milestone serves as the culminating event of the city’s 15-month commemoration celebrating 50 years of Sanibel’s history, resilience and community spirit,” it shared.
Immediately following the ceremony, attendees are welcome to continue the celebration at the Lunch & Legacy: Gathering Together at the Table, which will feature food, festivities and fellowship.
For more information, contact the Sanibel Recreation Department at 239-472-0345.