Princess Diana Time Capsule Uncovered 30 Years Later — Here’s What Was Inside

Princess Diana’s Time Capsule Uncovered after 30 Years

A time capsule left by the late Princess of Wales – Princess Diana – has been discovered at the Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, 30 years after it was buried. This fascinating discovery reveals what life was like in the 1990s through the eyes of Princess Diana and two young contest winners.

Back in 1991, Princess Diana, serving as the president of the hospital, played a significant role in the creation of the time capsule. The items contained within the lead-encased wooden box were selected by two children, Sylvia Foulkes and David Watson, winners of a contest on the popular children’s TV show Blue Peter. Among the items chosen were a hologram of a snowflake, a solar-powered calculator, British coins, tree seeds from Kew Gardens, a sheet of recycled paper, a European passport, a pocket television, and Kylie Minogue’s 1990 album, Rhythm of Love. Additionally, a photo of Princess Diana, a recent copy of The Times, and letters from Foulkes and Watson were included in the time capsule.

The intention behind the time capsule was for it to be opened many centuries later. However, due to new construction work at the children’s clinic, the wall containing the time capsule had to be demolished, prompting its opening. Despite some water damage to the box, the contents were found to be mostly intact. The hospital’s archivists are currently working on restoring the letters from the effects of humidity.

Jason Dawson, the executive director of Space and Place at GOSH, oversaw the removal and opening of the time capsule, describing the experience as “moving” and a connection to memories of a bygone era. The contents of the capsule, such as a pocket calculator and television, which were once considered cutting-edge technology, now appear almost like toys by today’s standards.

Interestingly, Princess Diana’s time capsule parallels a similar royal tradition dating back to 1872 when Alexandra, also a Princess of Wales, laid the foundation stone of the hospital and sealed a time capsule. GOSH now plans to plant a new time capsule during the hospital’s renovation.

Princess Diana’s legacy of philanthropy and compassion lives on through her sons, Princes William and Harry, who have continued her charitable work. Recently, Prince Harry revisited Angola, where his mother brought attention to the dangers of landmines decades ago. Diana’s impact resonates through her children’s dedication to causes she held dear.

In his recent trip, Prince Harry witnessed the transformation of a once-dangerous minefield into a safe area for children to play. Reflecting on his visit, Prince Harry emphasized the collective responsibility to protect future generations from the harms of war, echoing Princess Diana’s humanitarian spirit.

The unearthing of Princess Diana’s time capsule and the ongoing efforts of her sons to uphold her humanitarian legacy serve as poignant reminders of her enduring influence on charitable endeavors. Princess Diana’s remarkable contributions continue to inspire acts of kindness and compassion, resonating with people worldwide.