Frankfort Time Capsule Reveals Rich History at Independence Day Celebration

Frankfort Mayor Keith Ogle, alongside his wife Kim, unveiled historical treasures from a 1976 time capsule. Among the artifacts were a mug for the Frankfort Fall Festival and two Bicentennial-themed beer cans. Mayor Ogle humorously suggested, “I’ll bet these were the only two beers consumed at the festival,” reflecting on the festival’s humble beginnings when it attracted 40,000 attendees. Today, the festival draws a massive crowd of 250,000 and ranks as one of America’s top festivals, according to Sunshineartist.com.

The 1976 capsule was filled with hundreds of documents and items displayed at Breidert Green and later at the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum. Connie Behnke-Rotondo and Gene Gerardi, key figures in closing the capsule decades ago, were present to witness its reopening during an Independence Day celebration featuring the Frankfort Brass Band.

Behnke-Rotondo, who opened a photo studio in Frankfort in 1965, shared her memories. “The population was 750 when I arrived,” she recounted. Despite initial doubts, she regarded moving to Frankfort as a great decision. The village now boasts over 20,000 residents per the 2020 census. Behnke-Rotondo was Frankfort’s first female Chamber of Commerce president and contributed to the town’s bicentennial projects, including the time capsule.

Many capsule contents appealed to history enthusiasts. However, there were lighter items like restaurant menus, a phone book, a Sears catalog, and Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy dolls. Keith Ogle noted, “This is a very special window into our past.” He acknowledged those in 1976 who envisioned the future with pride and unity, believing progress requires care and dedication.

Breidert Green’s namesake, Burton Breidert, was Frankfort’s first administrator. His wife, Francis, penned a letter in 1976 for the capsule, highlighting community participation and enthusiasm. “The degree of enthusiasm and cooperation was fantastic,” she wrote, detailing festivals and events like the screening of “1776.”

The vault, initially donated by Girardi Funeral Home, was once placed at Heritage Hall and later moved to the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum. As part of the 250th birthday celebration of the U.S., the museum plans a military exhibit showcasing local veterans’ names and an America 250 mural with face cutouts. It also offers a limited number of free, small U.S. flags.

Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.