Frankfort Time Capsule Reveals Rich History During Independence Day Celebration

When Frankfort Mayor Keith Ogle and his wife, Kim, unveiled a collection of historical artifacts from a 1976 time capsule, the occasion brought smiles and memories. Among the items was a clear plastic bag holding a mug commemorating the Frankfort Fall Festival and two beer cans with Bicentennial themes. Mayor Ogle humorously remarked, “I’ll bet these were the only two beers consumed at the festival.” At that time, the festival, formerly known as Sauerkraut and Weiner Day, attracted around 40,000 visitors. Today, it draws 250,000 attendees and has been recognized by Sunshineartist.com as one of the nation’s top festivals.

The Frankfort Fall Festival exemplifies significant growth in the village since the 1976 Bicentennial. The time capsule, filled with numerous historical documents and items, was displayed at Breidert Green and will also be showcased at the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum, located at 1312 Kansas St.

Connie Behnke-Rotondo and Gene Gerardi, influential Frankfort residents and business owners, had managed the closure of the time capsule, which resembled an oversized beverage cooler. They were present during its opening half a century later, as part of an Independence Day event that featured music by the Frankfort Brass Band. Behnke-Rotondo reflects on her arrival more than 50 years ago when Frankfort’s population was just 750, saying, “We were kids from Chicago and said ‘what are we doing?’” She now believes moving there was the best decision they have ever made.

Frankfort’s population has grown to over 20,000 residents, according to the 2020 census. Behnke-Rotondo also became the first female president of the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, contributing to several Bicentennial projects, including the time capsule. Recalling the past, she states, “In 1976, we were dancing to disco music, dining at Kelly’s Wagon Wheel, and having breakfast at the Little Oasis. Everything was so desirable and a fun place to live. We just said ‘wow.’”

Artifacts from the 1976 time capsule, displayed on Saturday, included documents, photos, and other items donated by over 40 individuals or groups. Alongside historical materials, lighthearted items like beer cans, a mug from the Frankfort Fall Fest, a phone book, a Sears catalog, menus from local restaurants, and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls created by a resident were showcased.

Mayor Ogle expressed the significance of this historical window, saying, “When our predecessors sealed this time capsule in 1976, they were looking ahead to us. They hoped we would open it in a moment of pride, reflection, and unity.” He noted the belief that progress results from the deep care for the village. “As we open this capsule, we honor their optimism. We honor the belief that Frankfort would continue to grow, thrive, and remain a community where tradition and innovation walk side by side.”

Breidert Green is named after Burton Breidert, Frankfort’s first administrator. His wife, Francis, included a letter in the 1976 time capsule. She wrote, “What we have enclosed in this time capsule indicates very clearly the scope of participation, which resulted from our leadership. The degree of enthusiasm and cooperation was fantastic. We tried to convey to you what took place on holidays, the Fall Festivals of 1975 and 1976, the showing of the movie ‘1776’ and many other events.”

The time capsule was originally donated by Girardi Funeral Home and located in the cornerstone of Heritage Hall, now occupied by Morgan Money Management. Recently, it was relocated to the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum. The museum plans to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States with a special military exhibit listing Frankfort residents who served. Additionally, the museum features an America 250 mural with face cutouts outside and is offering a limited number of free, small U.S. flags.

Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.