A hidden piece of Elgin’s history has been uncovered during renovation work at Elgin Town Hall, and nobody quite knows what secrets it contains.

Construction teams working on the major rejuvenation of the landmark building discovered a sealed time capsule concealed behind the foundation stone in the foyer entrance.

The find has sparked a search for answers, with Moray Council and Elgin Town Hall now appealing to the public for help uncovering the story behind the mysterious container.

Research carried out through local archives has revealed that the foundation stone was originally salvaged from Elgin’s former town hall on Moray Street before being installed in the current building on 29 June 1960.

Records show the capsule was placed inside at the same time.

Beyond that, very little is known.

Nobody has yet been able to establish who created the capsule, why it was placed there or what treasures may be waiting inside.

The discovery has captured the imagination of those involved in the restoration project, with hopes that local residents may hold memories, photographs or family stories that could help fill in the missing pieces.

Any information gathered could help build a clearer picture of the town hall’s past before the capsule is eventually returned to its place within the building.

Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Marc Macrae, said:

“Elgin Town Hall has had a role to play in many of our lives over the years, and the stories from others could bring back forgotten memories of years gone by.

“As the important renovation work continues, we can plan how to honour the capsule by repositioning it back where it belongs in the town hall.”

The discovery has also excited those leading the community focused future of the venue.

Jackie Andrews, Director at Elgin Town Hall for the Community, said:

“The time capsule was an amazing discovery that could offer an exciting glimpse into the past and unlock forgotten items which take us back in time.

“If you have any information about the history of the capsule, we would love to hear from you.”

Once more is known about the capsule and its origins, plans are expected to be developed to add new items that reflect life in Moray today.

Those future additions will allow another generation to look back on the community, its people and its stories when the capsule is eventually opened again many years from now.

For now, however, the biggest question remains unanswered.

What exactly is inside?

If you have any information or memories to share, get in touch with Moray Council at CulturalQuarter@moray.gov.uk