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Blawnox to create time capsule as part of centennial celebration
Blawnox officials hope to collect items from past and present residents as part of a historic celebration.
The Centennial Committee is creating a time capsule with the size and shape to be determined.
The goal is to pack it with mementos, news articles, old menus, photos, yearbooks, magazines, newsletters and much more.
Other items such as figurines or models should be no bigger than 6 inches in each dimension. No liquids or perishables will be accepted.
“When you see those things from your past, I think it brings you joy,” said Kathy Ulanowicz, borough manager and committee member. “I’ve been here my whole life. I’ll be finding something that is really cool to put in there that represents my family.”
Casey Cunningham, administrative assistant and centennial committee member, believes the time capsule is a great gift to future generations so they can learn about life in the borough.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what people contribute to the capsule,” Cunningham said via email. “I’m relatively new to Blawnox, having only lived here nine years, and I’m sure there are (some) treasures out there. My family is planning to create something together to contribute to the time capsule.”
Donations can be made at the borough office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Items will also be accepted on the day of the event. The celebration is Sept. 20 at the community park.
Blawnox was incorporated on April 13, 1925.
Located about nine miles east up the Allegheny River from Pittsburgh, it was originally a village called Hoboken.
It changed its name following the establishment of the Blaw-Knox Co. in 1917, a merger of the Blaw Steel Centering Co. and the Knox Pressed and Welded Steel Co. The company was the community’s largest employer. Its ownership changed hands several times and was sold to Volvo Construction Equipment in 2007.
The population was listed at 1,454 in the 2020 census.
Cost is $5 to donate to the time capsule. Proceeds benefit the celebration, which is still in its planning phase.
Organizers have reached out to borough restaurants to provide food. Other activities being sought include a petting zoo, pony rides, live entertainment and a drone show.
“Our hope for the event is to have stuff for kids to do, stuff for adults to do, music for the day, food and fun,” said Ulanowicz.
No contracts have been signed yet. So far, the only thing ruled out is a parade.
“The centennial plans are moving along nicely,” Cunningham said. “It’s a big undertaking for our small committee, but we’re all focused on creating an incredible day for Blawnox residents and the greater community.
“We’re (little less than) six months away now, so we’re beginning to finalize plans and concentrate on fundraising efforts. The planning meetings are a great opportunity to take in everyone’s perspectives and goals, and to chip away at the to-do list. We’re all invested in the success of the celebration and know we can rely on each other to do our best.”
Fundraising letters will be sent to residents in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, T-shirts and hoodies are available for purchase. Cost is $20 for a shirt and $30 for a sweatshirt.
They can be picked up at the borough building, 376 Freeport Road. There will be an extra fee if shipped.
People can purchase a commemorative ornament and make monetary donations through the borough’s website.
They can also drop off checks at the borough office. Write “Centennial” in the memo line.
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter covering general news in Western Pennsylvania, with a penchant for festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.
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