LAFAYETTE PARISH BURIES TIME CAPSULE TO COMMEMORATE BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS

Lafayette, LA – After a year-long celebration of its Bicentennial, Lafayette Parish buried two time capsules, one 50-year and the other a 100-year time capsule as the final event to mark this historic milestone. The time capsule contains a variety of items that represent the culture and heritage of Lafayette Parish and a snapshot of life in Lafayette Parish as we know it today. The ceremony took place at Lafayette City-Parish Hall with city and parish officials and community members in attendance.  

Mayor-President Josh Guillory emphasized the importance of including a variety of items in the time capsule to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of the community. “Over the last 200 years, our parish has come so far. Today, we performed this ceremony in a time where our economy is roaring and is more diversified than ever. Our roads, drainage, and other infrastructure needs are being addressed. We are truly blessed here in Lafayette right now. We are currently the shining example in our state,” he said. 

The capsules, set to be opened in 2073 and 2123, respectively, contain an array selection of items designed to convey the vibrant life and traditions of Lafayette to future residents. The collection includes musical treasures such as traditional zydeco and Cajun instruments and recorded interviews with revered cultural elders and historians. These contents stand alongside digital photographs representing Lafayette’s current landscape and lifestyle. 

Notable entities such as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Lafayette Travel submitted letters, as well as mayors of surrounding municipalities who painted a diverse portrait of the parish as it stands today. Youngsville Mayor Ken Ritter, speaking about the letter he wrote, said, “The letter aims to summarize life in Youngsville in 2023 including our endeavors and commitment to progress in anticipation of the future. I hope future residents will agree that we’ve done our part to prepare Youngsville and Lafayette Parish for the future.” Scott Mayor Jan-Scott Richard added, “My hope is that future generations appreciate our history – the rich history of our parish and our municipalities - and how progressive we were.”

The Bicentennial celebrations in Lafayette Parish have been a time of reflection, appreciation, and unity. As the celebrations come to an end, the burial of the time capsules serves as a symbolic representation of the community's past, present, and future. Lafayette International Center Director of International Trade and Development Dave Domingue said, “It’s been a year of discovery and celebrations, uncovering wonderful aspects of the many traditions and cultures that produce our rich and vibrant community.” 

The Bicentennial celebrations in Lafayette Parish have been a testament to the community's resilience, strength, and pride. Sami Parbhoo, Bicentennial Coordinator, said, “The burial of the time capsule will be a fitting end to this momentous year and a reminder of the rich history and culture that make Lafayette Parish a special place.” As the time capsule is buried, it will serve as a symbol of hope and unity for the future generations of Lafayette Parish.