Community

Crane Township Time Capsule Buried to Mark Conclusion of Bicentennial Year

Pictured above (l-r) are Joe Sukup, Betty Lane, Shawn Dooley, Kristine Stuart, Kevin Stuart, Mike Meyer, Carol Razo, Art Razo, Pam Boatright, Mike Zielke, and Wayne Zielke. Wayne Zielke thought perhaps with the advances being made in the medical field he might be around in 100 years when they open the time capsule (He would be 111 in 2125)! None of us will ever know, but wouldn’t that be AWESOME?!?

Crane Township marked the close of its 200th anniversary year with a quiet, meaningful ceremony on Saturday, November 1, as township officials and members of the Bicentennial Committee gathered to bury a time capsule that will be opened in 2125.

The capsule was buried at historic Rochester Cemetery, a meaningful site deeply tied to the township’s earliest history and founding families. With no public fanfare, the small gathering reflected the solemn purpose of honoring the past while looking forward to the future.

The time capsule contains a curated collection of items representing Crane Township in 2025, including companion photo books from each bicentennial event, messages to future leaders, photographs of township officials and community boards, and mementos capturing modern township life and achievements.

“Our bicentennial year was filled with community, reflection, and pride,” said Fiscal Officer Carol Razo. “Burying this time capsule represents not only how we honored our past, but how hopeful we are for Crane Township’s next 100 years.”

The ceremony concludes a year of celebration that included a live historical play, a commemorative ceremony at New Rochester Park, historical publications, and a guided nature walk. Each event was designed to honor Crane Township’s heritage, strengthen community connection, and preserve local stories.

Crane Township extends its gratitude to all residents, volunteers, descendants, organizations, and partners who contributed to making its bicentennial year meaningful and memorable.