Centennial Time Capsule Moves to Davis Mountains State Park

Centennial Time Capsule Moves to Davis Mountains State Park

Oct. 6, 2025

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AUSTIN- The Centennial Time Capsule, which encompasses 100 years of Texas State Parks history, is once again on the move and enroute to its winter home at Davis Mountains State Park as part of its 50-year trek to every state park across the Lone Star State. The time capsule, which houses one object from every state park and support program, went on display at Mother Neff State Park in April.

"The staff, volunteers and visitors at Blanco State Park have enjoyed having the Centennial Time Capsule with us for the last six months," said Mark Pearson, Superintendent of Blanco State Park. "We are also honored to be one of the first parks to host it, as it has just begun its 50-year journey across our great state and its many beautiful state parks. We will miss seeing it daily, but we are excited to send it to Davis Mountains where we know the staff will enjoy it and take care of it as we have."

The time capsule will now be on full display at Davis Mountains in Fort Davis to greet visitors before packing up and heading to its next destination.

"Davis Mountains State Park is honored to host the Centennial Time Capsule," said Torrey Bonham, superintendent of Davis Mountains State Park. "This project celebrates the legacy and future of Texas State Parks, capturing memories and milestones from across the system to be rediscovered by future generations. Davis Mountains State Park holds a rich tradition of stewardship and history. Just as we marvel at the craftsmanship of Skyline Drive and the historic Indian Lodge - reflecting on the dedication of those who came before us - the Centennial Time Capsule provides an opportunity for others to do the same in years to come."

The unwavering efforts of CCC Companies 879, 881, and 1865, as well as new experiences being made by park visitors today, makes this time capsule symbolize a bridge between the past and future, added Bonham.

Guests are invited to view the capsule and make their own memories while it's at Davis Mountains, leaving a piece of their story for the generations who will one day view its opening," said Bonham.

The five-foot-tall wooden time capsule weighs more than 300 pounds and was made from pecan trees harvested at Mother Neff State Park, the site widely accepted as the first Texas State Park opened to the public. It is made from solid wood and bronze and is large enough to hold more than 100 items. Sitting atop the capsule is a sculpture in the shape of Texas with all park locations marked. Additionally, there are 100 name plates recognizing all contributing parks and programs, six regional bas relief panels and a plaque on the front with a message to the future.

For the contents of the time capsule, park staff had to choose an item that would tell a story about that site, fit in a box the size of a coffee mug, survive 50 years and be strong enough to travel the roads of Texas.

"Time capsules are usually buried in the ground and forgotten until it's time to open them, but ours will remain on display, so we wanted it to be a work of art and showcase the excellent craftsmanship of our exhibit team," said Stephen Garrett, Exhibits Manager for Texas State Parks. "This is something totally unique and I don't think anyone's ever made a time capsule quite like this before. I'm proud of the thought, care and work that went into the capsule's creation and hope park visitors enjoy seeing it as much as we did creating it."