Congressional time capsule marks America's 250 years. What Idaho submitted

Kevin Fixler, The Idaho Statesman on Jul 4, 2026

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As America’s 250th anniversary arrives, the U.S. Congress has gotten in the spirit with a time capsule to mark the occasion and Idaho’s four federal lawmakers have chosen items that illustrate the state’s unique history and traditions.

The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule, established by passage of a federal law, is set to be sealed and buried by July 4 at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C. Its contents are not expected to be seen again until the capsule is reopened in another 250 years — July 4, 2276.

Idaho Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Reps. Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher were tasked with picking the state’s contributions. Included are: an advanced memory chip from Micron Technology, a challenge coin from the Idaho National Laboratory, a potato character plush and cultural items from the Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock and Coeur d’Alene tribes.

“Together, these symbols represent the enduring efforts of Idahoans to lead our nation into the next 250 years through tribal cultural traditions, agricultural production, scientific research, energy innovation and advanced semiconductor manufacturing,” Crapo, Idaho’s senior senator, said in a statement.

“From our rich agricultural roots to our leadership in energy innovation and advanced manufacturing, the items we contributed reflect the trailblazing spirit and hardworking communities that define the Gem State,” added Fulcher, who represents Idaho’s 2nd Congressional District.

The selections from Idaho “reflect the unique ingenuity, productivity and pioneering spirit that shape the Gem State and continue to influence the future of the nation,” according to a news release from the four lawmakers. Respective leaders from Micron, INL, the Idaho Potato Commission and the three native tribes each said they were honored to take part in the time capsule project.

The Nez Perce Tribe contributed a patch featuring its logo and a copy of its Treaty of 1855 with the U.S. government.

“These items demonstrate and symbolize the enduring history, legacy, and the government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Nez Perce Tribe,” said Samuel N. Penney, the tribe’s executive committee chairman. “We hope future generations who open this capsule will recognize and appreciate the significance of this lasting relationship.”

Idaho’s iconic crop — the potato, of course — also is represented among the state’s submissions.

“Our contributions include some of the very best that the Gem State has to offer, and I am confident that future generations will appreciate Idaho’s rich heritage. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Simpson, who represents Idaho’s 1st Congressional District.

This year’s Independence Day — 250 years from the nation’s founding — granted the chance for Idaho to flaunt its wares.

“For generations, Idahoans have embodied the values that make this country great: faith, hard work, grit, and self-reliance,” Risch said. “From our potato farmers feeding the nation to our advancements in semiconductors and nuclear energy driving innovation, Idaho is leading the way to a stronger and more prosperous America. We live in the greatest state in the greatest nation in the world, and I am confident that will continue for another 250 years and beyond.”

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