Not to be opened until 2051
The ACT branch of the Australian Jewish Historical Society has joined with the children and youth of the ACT Jewish Community by preparing a time capsule to be opened in 2051 on the 100th anniversary of the formation of the ACT Jewish community.
Adele Rosalsky and Karen Tatz Photo: Matthew Joshua
The Time Travellers time capsule has been sponsored by the Australian Jewish Historical Society ACT. The launch had originally been planned to coincide with the celebration held on 12 December 2021 marking the 70th anniversary of the formation of the ACT Jewish Community and the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Mona & Louis Klein wing in 1971. That celebration included the official opening of the new Millie Phillips wing by Governor-General David Hurley accompanied by Mrs Linda Hurley.
Due to the Covid lockdown, arrangements for the completion of the time capsule could not be finalised until this week, when a group photograph was taken of the children who had contributed artwork and essays. AJHS ACT President, Adele Rosalky, explained that the wooden suitcase to be used as the capsule had belonged to Earle Hoffman, Adele’s father. Earle had been the founding President of AJHS ACT in 1984 remaining in that position for 24 years, so it is appropriate to use something that had belonged to him. The capsule is to be placed high on a wall in the ACTJC Library so that it will not be forgotten until it is opened again in 2051 for the 100th anniversary of the community.
Adele Rosalky said 58 children had contributed work to be included in the capsule, with ages ranging from 3½ to 16 years. She noted that many talented children described how they will look in 2051, how the centenary should be celebrated, as well as indicated their love of this small community and their love of Judaism. Along with the children’s work and photographs, some of the other items to be included are a set of coins struck at the Mint to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Aboriginal flag in 2021, a set of stamps honouring the first responders in the bushfires and Covid in 2021 and three publications describing the history of the ACTJC, and Australian Jewish War Memorial located in the grounds of the National Jewish Memorial Centre.
She thanked all the Time Travellers who had contributed, their parents for supporting the project, and her team of helpers. Each child received a certificate to mark their participation.
Such a wonderful initiative! Kol hakavod to the AJHS ACT, to all the board and the ACT Jewish Community!!!