In the halls of Congress 250 years from now, someone will become a snazzy dresser.
Montana’s congressional delegation is submitting a silver belt buckle adorned with the American flag and bordered by golden rope for a time capsule to represent the Treasure State. The belt buckle will be sealed in a 4-foot-tall capsule alongside other states’ contributions in the Capitol Visitor Center on July 4. The capsule is then meant to be opened on that same date in 2276.
In this 2011 file photo, Lana Talley uses a press in the buckle production department at Montana Silversmiths in Columbus.
Gazette file photo
“The belt buckle is a symbol of Montana's ranching heritage, cowboy culture and the enduring spirit of the American West,” Montana’s delegation wrote in a letter for the capsule. “It reflects values that have guided generations of Montanans. We hope that when you view this belt buckle in 2276, it serves as a reminder that the American story was not built solely in great cities or halls of government, but also on ranches, farms and open ranges where ordinary people worked the land, raised families and contributed to the strength of the nation. The traditions of the West helped shape the character of Montana, of America itself.”
The buckle was crafted by Montana Silversmiths, known for its handcrafted belt buckles and jewelry. The business is headquartered in Columbus where they have operated since 1973. A media inquiry to the company was not returned.
In this 2011 Gazette file photo, Regina Hill works in the gold quality check area of Montana Silversmiths in Columbus
Gazette file
The time capsule is part of a law passed earlier this year, meant to honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
“Two hundred and fifty years ago, America's founders declared that all people are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” Montana’s all-Republican delegation wrote. “Their vision launched an extraordinary experiment in self-governance that has endured through triumphs and trials, moments of unity and division. The America of 2026 remains imperfect, yet steadfast in its pursuit of a more perfect Union.”
The letter concludes by wishing the capsule openers a “Happy 500th Anniversary of American Independence.”
Read the full letter signed by Montana's congressional delegation here.
Congress’ time capsule is in addition to another capsule planned by the bipartisan America250 group. In that case, the Montana Historical Society submitted beaded art work from a Browning artist featuring bison at the center, with it colored by Montana’s landscape.
Similarly, that capsule’s not expected to be opened for 250 years.
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