Exclusive look inside America250 time capsule reveals artifacts preserving US history
From civic records to cultural keepsakes, a literal ton of American history is almost ready for burial in Philadelphia.
Ahead of the nation's historic 250th birthday, "Fox & Friends" got an exclusive look at the final contents of the America250 time capsule — a 900-pound, stainless steel, waterproof vessel housing nearly 200 contributions from across the nation.
"The contents of the time capsule [are] amazing," America250 Chair Rosie Rios shared Monday.
"We wanted to make sure that all three branches of government [were] represented. All 56 parts of our country [are] also represented, so the 50 states, D.C., and the five territories and, of course, everyday Americans are part of this as well."
Capped with a 1,100-pound lid, the waterproof vessel will weigh roughly a ton when it is buried in Philadelphia's Independence National Historical Park on July 4, safeguarding a collection of artifacts meant to capture America at this year's milestone anniversary.
Rios described the City of Brotherly Love as a natural choice for the final resting place of the capsule, which will be reopened in 2276.
"It's the birthplace of our country and everyone knows that, in 250 years, that's where you're going to go to have this unburied," she said.
"It's a great location for the appropriate time."
Inside are items that organizers say reflect the nation's history, culture and identity.
Rios highlighted several contributions, including a pocket Constitution signed by the Supreme Court justices, a crystal from the 2026 New Year's Eve ball in Times Square, a message in a bottle from Coca-Cola, an American flag flown at the 2026 Rose Parade and an NFL America250 commemorative coin.
Rios said a capstone and artifacts will be on display in Philadelphia as a reminder that history lies waiting for future Americans.
"We can hope that our great-great-great-great-grandchildren will be able to enjoy this," Rios said.
