Philadelphia Children Preserve 2026 Memories for Opening in 2076

Children in Philadelphia are recording their lives in 2026 for people who will visit Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse decades from now. The project, called “Hear Us! The Children’s Time Capsule,” will keep their letters, artwork and recordings sealed until 2076.

The submissions capture what young people enjoy and think about on November 7, 2026, including popular games and entertainment. Smith executive director Frances Hoover said children repeatedly mentioned Roblox and SpongeBob, as well as “67.”

The project coincides with the United States’ 250th anniversary. Hoover said the playground’s history, spanning more than 125 years, reflects the lives of Philadelphia residents. Everett Williams, one of the children who contributed, hopes the playground will still be open in 50 years so his children can visit a place where generations of his family played.

Families marked the occasion with music, crafts and other activities. Organizers distributed 100 commemorative coins, and attendees signed a commemorative scroll destined for the capsule. Radio personality Patty Jackson also spoke about preserving memories and the importance of family and Philadelphia’s history.

Children and families can still add letters, artwork or recordings through November 30. The materials will remain preserved for the next half-century before the capsule is opened.