Doña Ana County officials announced a new community project that invites residents to help preserve the county’s story for future generations. The 2076 time capsule will be sealed with items that capture what life was like in Doña Ana County in 2026, and it will be opened a century from now.

How to participate

Anyone living in the county may submit mementos such as posters, handwritten letters, photographs, or other memorabilia that reflect daily life, local traditions, and the values that matter to families and faith‑based communities today. The county will not accept hazardous, illegal, or irreplaceable items.

Submissions can be dropped off Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the county office located at 2480 Lakeside Drive in Las Cruces. The collection period ends on December 8, giving residents a few weeks to gather and share their pieces of history.

Why the project matters

“As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, this time capsule captures a snapshot of life today in Doña Ana County,” the county said in its announcement. “It preserves the stories, experiences and milestones of our community for future generations, offering a glimpse into who we are and what matters to our people at this historic moment in our nation’s history.”

The initiative aligns with the county’s broader effort to strengthen community bonds and honor the role of faith, family, and liberty in public life. By encouraging residents to reflect on their own experiences and share them with future citizens, the project underscores the importance of preserving local heritage while looking forward to the next generation’s challenges and triumphs.

What to expect

Once the submission deadline passes, county staff will curate the items, ensuring that each contribution meets safety guidelines and reflects the spirit of the project. The sealed capsule will be stored securely by the county and slated for reopening in the year 2076, when it will provide a tangible link between today’s families and those of the future.

Community leaders hope the time capsule will become a source of pride for residents and a reminder that the values of faith, traditional families, and individual liberty endure across the decades.

Get involved

Residents are encouraged to spread the word among neighbors, churches, schools, and local organizations. By participating, families can help ensure that the story of Doña Ana County in 2026 is recorded accurately and lovingly for the eyes of future generations.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.