On a hot and humid July 17 afternoon, about 30 neighbors gathered at the Payne’s Church entrance to conclude the 50th Anniversary of Middleridge Celebration with the internment of a time capsule.

It was a wonderful way to culminate Middleridge’s 50th Anniversary celebration which had been extended over the past two years due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. “Gretchen Bulova and her 50th Anniversary committee did a FABULOUS job over the last two years putting together events for AND reminding people about our community’s history with articles and pictures on our website and Facebook site,” noted John Bayer, the president of the Middleridge Civic Association during the 50th Anniversary.

As community members arrived to the burial site around 3pm, they were invited to sign the capsule. MCA President David Simon, Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw, Delegate (and neighbor) David Bulova, and Immediate Past President of MCA John Bayer offered remarks. “I had a wonderful time emceeing the Time Capsule Event, marking the 50th Anniversary of Middleridge Celebration,” said David.

Next, Gretchen Bulova, 50th anniversary chair, described the time capsule selection process and the contents of the capsule. Contents included individual neighbor submissions, home floor plans, 1970s photos, original owner reflections, Robinson and Bonnie Brae memorabilia, magazines, Fairfax County tourism brochures, and even an encapsulated cicada! Plus, the anniversary committee created a photo book to document the neighborhood and all of our fun community events.

“While it was a VERY warm and humid day, seeing so many neighbors at our Time Capsule internment was fantastic. It was very good to see some young people who will be around when the capsule is unearthed in fifty more years!” said John Bayer. 

The capsule is to be opened in 2070 — the 100th anniversary of the community — and a plaque (to be installed) will note the location and opening instructions. David added, “The Time Capsule dedication, which leaves a piece of our history for future generations, was a tremendous way of symbolizing what our little piece of Fairfax means to all of us. I know we will be excited to dig it up in 2070 as part of the Middleridge 100th Anniversary Celebration.” 

Thanks to everyone who contributed to the time capsule and attended the event. Special thanks to the anniversary committee members: Gretchen and David Bulova, Sarah Mayhew, Catie Morales, Janet and Charlie Reimer, and Gerry Reynolds. 

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