Exterior Envelope
A vellum envelope was affixed to the outside of the time capsule. For the lucky individual who discovered it were two things inside:
- A note requesting the time capsule be left unmolested & restored to its original location; and
- Another envelope, this one self-addressed & stamped, which they could use to notify me of the discovery so my “Peter Tingle” would cease.
At the time, I affixed two 33¢ stamps to the letter as its postage, having consulted past history to estimate the amount required for future first-class mail (considering how 2020 went, I’m surprised the US Postal Service is still around). Since today’s price of a single Forever Stamp in 2022 is 60¢, I just barely covered the cost.
The letter was obviously never sent — which is just as good, as it was addressed to my childhood home that my parents no longer occupied (and has since been replaced by a holy-massive McMansion in true Southlake style).
Here’s what the finder’s note said:
To Whom It May Concern:
My name is Matthew McGarity, and if you are reading this you have discovered my time capsule. I began working on it April 9, 1997 when I was a Bruce Hall resident assistant. I buried it on August 13, 2000 as a hall director finally leaving UNT for greener pastures. If everything had gone according to plan, I would have opened this capsule myself on April 9, 2022.
If you are able to, please place this capsule back where you found it with this envelope once again taped to the outside. Do not tell anyone of its location, so that I might return for it when the proper date arrives. You are also welcome to visit with me on April 9, 2022 when I return to open it, but try not to ruin this project that is dear to me. As you can see, I spent many years on this surprise for myself!
If it is not possible to return my time capsule to its final resting place, please take the self-addressed stamped envelope that came with this note and drop it in the mail. I can only assume it doesn’t cost more than 66¢ to mail a letter in the future! Then, leave the time capsule with the hall director of Bruce Hall with adequate explanation of what it is, and I will contact them when I get the mailed notice.
