Capsule's plaque eulogises Nelson

The time capsule found at the site of Nelson's Pillar in Dublin probably contains coins and other memorabilia from 1808, but it could be weeks before the National Museum opens it.

The capsule is thought to be inside the pillar's foundation stone, which was undergoing conservation work at the museum's studios yesterday. It was discovered during archaeological excavation of the site in preparation for the erection of the Millennium Spire.

A metal plaque on the stone carries a long eulogy to the "transcendent and heroic" deeds of Admiral Nelson who died in the Battle of Trafalgar three years before work on the pillar began.

The plaque also records the laying of the foundation stone by the Duke of Richmond on February 15th, 1808, and mentions other city dignitaries and subscribers, including the then lord mayor James Vance, members of the La Touche family, and Arthur Guinness.

It is believed to cover a recess filled with coins and other artifacts, but the museum said this would be confirmed only after the plaque is conserved. It is expected to take days or even weeks to remove the plaster residue. Once conservation is complete, the plaque and the contents of the capsule will be displayed in the museum at Collins Barracks and later at City Hall.

The discovery was not unexpected, according to Dublin Corporation. The site of Nelson's Pillar was known to be associated with a time capsule prepared in 1808, and research carried out by archeological consultants described a copper or bronze box containing newspapers as well as coins. It also pointed to substantial remains of the pillar's foundations.

Based on the findings, Dublin Corporation engaged the consultants for an archaeological excavation of the site, which began three weeks ago. The pillar's foundation stone was uncovered on Tuesday. Realising that it probably contained the capsule, the archaeologists contacted the National Museum, and the stone was lifted on Wednesday.