The discovery of a second time capsule from the former General Hospital in Sault Ste. Marie is a fascinating find, offering a glimpse into the past and the community's healthcare needs. This article delves into the significance of this discovery, exploring the historical context and the insights it provides.
The time capsule, sealed in September 1953, was found at the base of the large brick cross on the hospital's facade. It contained a wealth of information, including a copy of the Sault Daily Star newspaper from September 22, 1953, Catholic blessed medallions and scapulars, a 1953 Canadian penny, and typed meeting minutes from hospital expansion meetings. The presence of newspapers from the same date provides a unique perspective on the era's news and the community's priorities.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the Catholic nature of the hospital and the inclusion of Catholic symbols. Larry Girardi, project manager of port development, noted that the items were important to the Gray Sisters, who ran the hospital. The inclusion of Catholic scapulars, typically received during first communion and blessed, adds a layer of religious significance to the time capsule.
The meeting minutes, in particular, offer a valuable insight into the community's healthcare needs and the efforts to address them. Mayor Mathew Shoemaker highlighted the importance of these minutes, indicating that the community came together to raise funds for hospital expansion, even before Medicare and OHIP were established. This demonstrates a strong sense of community and a proactive approach to healthcare.
The timing of the time capsules is also noteworthy. The 1953 capsule was created just eight years after World War II, and the 1963 one was sealed just months before the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Girardi suggests that reading the newspapers from these periods provides a different perspective on current events, as the world was adjusting to post-war life and dealing with the growing tensions of the Cold War.
The discovery of the cornerstones and their preservation is another significant aspect. The stones, found near the 1953 and 1963 cornerstones, will be offered to the Sault Ste. Marie Museum. Girardi mentions their weight, indicating the physical labor involved in their construction and the importance of preserving these historical markers.
In conclusion, the second time capsule from the General Hospital provides a unique window into the past, revealing the community's healthcare concerns, religious practices, and the collective effort to address them. It serves as a reminder of the historical context and the ongoing need for community engagement in healthcare. As William Hollingshead, Sault Museum executive director, hopes, there may be more time capsules waiting to be discovered, offering further insights into the city's rich history.
