September 8, 2026
By Steuben Co Spokesman Eddie VanStine
As part of the Steuben 250 celebration on Saturday, September 5, a significant piece of history was added to the Charters of Freedom in the Village of Bath with the placement of time capsules intended to connect the present generation with those who will come after it.
The time capsules were placed during a ceremony at the Charters of Freedom, a project that commemorates the foundational documents and principles of the United States. The ceremony provided an opportunity for community members to reflect on the significance of preserving history while also creating a record for future generations.
Steuben County Legislature Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick participated in the ceremony and helped place the time capsules at the site.
“Certain projects create a significant impact in the community. The charters of freedom is one of those projects. We have cemented a significant place in history by placing them in the park in the Village Of Bath. We have furthered the significance by placing the time capsules. We have marked our place in history and created the opportunity for future generations to do the same.” Said Chair Fitzpatrick.
The placement of the time capsules was part of the broader Steuben 250 commemoration, which brought residents and visitors together in Bath to recognize the 250th anniversary of both New York and America.
The Charters of Freedom provide a permanent reminder of the documents that helped establish the foundation of the United States. The addition of the time capsules creates another connection between the community today and future generations who will one day have the opportunity to discover and reflect upon the history being made in Steuben County.
The ceremony was held during the Steuben 250 History Concert and Fair, organized by the Steuben County Historian’s Office and the Steuben County Historical Society.
The Steuben 250 celebration was sponsored by the NY 250th Commemorative Commission.
