Bicentennial time capsule opened on Independence Mall in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A time capsule sealed during the nation's bicentennial celebration in 1976 was opened Wednesday morning on Independence Mall in Philadelphia.

A group of elected officials and local students carefully opened the package, which had remained sealed for the past 50 years.

Inside, they found a book containing the names of 816 local children, along with photographs, letters, newspaper articles and a list of memorabilia from the bicentennial celebration.

The opening offered a look at items preserved from Philadelphia's 1976 observance of the nation's 200th anniversary.

Officials said the time capsule will be resealed and opened again in 2076 during the tricentennial celebration.