Centennial Time Capsule Moves to Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Centennial Time Capsule Moves to Palo Duro Canyon State Park

April 2, 2026

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AUSTIN - The Centennial Time Capsule, which encompasses 100 years of Texas State Parks history, is on the move once again, as it roams the Lone Star State for 50 years on a quest to visit every park. This time, it is moving to Palo Duro Canyon State Park after its recent stop over the winter at Davis Mountains State Park.

The time capsule houses one object from every state park and support program. It has now visited four parks, each for six months at a time.

The time capsule will be on display at the state park located in Canyon to greet visitors until it is moved to its next destination.

"Having the Texas State Parks Time Capsule here at Palo Duro Canyon State Park is something we're really excited about," said park Superintendent David Fischer. "It's a great opportunity for us to connect the canyon's deep natural and cultural history with the future of our State Park system. The canyon has always been a place where stories are shared and passed down, and this capsule adds a new chapter to our legacy. We are proud to serve as stewards, share this piece of history with park visitors, and see the future generation open it in 2074 to see what we have left behind."

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

"The Centennial Time Capsule has been a treasured presence at Davis Mountains State Park, serving as a symbol of the legacy and future of Texas State Parks," said Superintendent Torrey Bonham. "During its time here, it has done more than commemorate history-it has inspired it. Visitors of all ages, from young stewards experiencing the parks for the first time to those connected to the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps, have engaged with the capsule and reflected on their role in preserving these special places."

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."