A new exhibit through May 4 at the Johnson County Museum offers an opportunity to look “Inside the Box: A 1951 Time Capsule.”

In May 1951, government officials from Johnson County placed a time capsule within the cornerstone of the then-new Johnson County Courthouse. Nearly seven decades later, during the demolition of the then-old courthouse in 2021, the time capsule was rediscovered and opened a year later, revealing a fully intact, handmade copper box. Inside this meticulously sealed container lay a treasure trove of documents, carefully selected, wrapped and preserved by government officials, awaiting the eyes of future generations.

“Inside the Box” invites visitors to explore the contents that offer an insight into the minds oj Johnson County and city officials from 1951. The exhibit provides a rare opportunity to connect with the past, uncovering the hopes, aspirations, and perspectives of the individuals who played a pivotal role in shaping the county’s trajectory during a time of unprecedented growth and change.

“Learning about the past helps you understand the present,” said Johnson County Museum Director Mary McMurray. “Visitors to this exhibit can learn not only what county officials wanted the future to know about their time, but also about the rich history of time capsules and what they’ve meant throughout time. And they get to do it in a beautifully designed, clock-inspired space.”

Johnson County Museum is located at the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park.

Entrance to the special exhibit is included with regular admission to the museum. Admission is $6 for adults; $5 seniors, students, and military; $4 for children; and free for museum members.