A time capsule was buried on the grounds of the historic courthouse at Heitz Place last weekend. It was the last official act by the 350th Anniversary Committee. The committee had organized numerous events throughout the anniversary year, that culminated with the 350th Anniversary weekend last September.

Items commemorating the historic anniversary year were included in the capsule. According to Richard Evers, co-chairman of the committee, the capsule offers something to today's generation, as well as tomorrow's. He offered this:

"I suppose it is the same thing that involves people taking pictures or doing something we want to be remembered for. We, as individuals and as a group, are trying to set our place in history," said Evers. "We also want to leave something for posterity, maybe an inspiration to them, to show how people could be interested in their community year after year and extend themselves above and beyond the ordinary."

The burying of the capsule coincided with an event celebrating the progress that has been made in restoring the Gregory Museum, which is housed in the courthouse. Highlighting the museum's restoration efforts was the rebuilding of the building's cupola. It was completed and re-installed over the summer. Among the many other projects was the installation of a new roof and the stripping and repainting of the entire exterior of the building.

Dignitaries from the state, county and town were on hand for a ceremony that included the presentation of awards recognizing the efforts of many volunteers and contributors. The Long Island Harmonica Club and the Puppet Theater provided entertainment throughout the day.

"It was a great day and there was a wonderful turnout," said Rosemary Barrow, museum vice president. "We were blessed with beautiful weather. There was a nice spirit."

In the front hall there are two long frames listing all those who volunteered on the current restoration project, whether it was with money, time or materials. The Roll of Honor holds the names of residents, government officials, civic organization members and business people. According to Barrow, it is the second such list at the museum. At the museum's grand opening in 1973 a list of 400 volunteers who had helped on that project was hung in the front hall of the museum. Barrow stated that the volunteerism has been critical to the survival of the museum.

"It is the only way that it has survived because we do not get regular help from any government source," said Barrow.

The museum's largest ever private donation was a major catalyst in getting a lot of work done over the past year. Helen Augustin Hitchcock, a longtime museum benefactor, left a $10,000 gift to the museum after her death last year. A case of her childhood toys is dedicated to her and is on display in the museum. The display includes some valuable antiques.

"It was a tremendous help in the restoration effort," said Barrow. "As the project progressed many expenses revealed themselves. Mrs. Hitchcock's money came just in time to pay those kinds of bills."

"I thought it was very interesting to bring together this accomplishment at the museum with the renovation and tie it in with the 350th anniversary. This is the last act of last year's 350th. The capsule was the grand finale and it was a pleasure to have the Gregory Museum with us."