As part of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s programme of events to mark the Northern Ireland Centenary, it was proposed to bury a number of Time Capsules across the Borough, and Ballyclare was chosen as one of the locations.
Over the past 18 months, items have been accumulated from schools, community groups, sports clubs, young farmers’ clubs, writers, artists and individuals across the Ballyclare District Electoral Area that capture the essence and tell the story of Ballyclare and its people in 2021.
On Thursday evening, 12 January, all those who contributed were invited to a special photoshoot in Ballyclare Town Hall where they were photographed with the items they have donated to the Time Capsule. The photographs taken will also form part of the contents of the Time Capsule. On this special evening, a large group photo was taken which shows the breadth of community spirit in the town and its district. This photo highlights how the Time Capsule has captured the local imagination in marking this milestone in Northern Ireland’s history.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross, said, “It is inspiring to see so many members of the Ballyclare community join together to encapsulate life within the town during 2021, the year of the Northern Ireland Centenary. I look forward to joining the community at the official Time Capsule burial”.
The Time Capsule will be buried at Centenary Way in the town later this year.