Royal recognition for century-old time capsule discovery

Staff at University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) have received a personal message from His Majesty The King, thanking them for their role in unearthing a century-old time capsule at the former North Staffordshire Royal Infirmary.

The letter, sent from Buckingham Palace to UHNM Estates Manager Marc Porter, praised the discovery of the sealed lead box, which had been buried during King George V’s visit to Stoke-on-Trent on 5 June 1925. The King’s message described how he was “touched” that details of the find had been shared with him and asked that his warmest good wishes be passed to all UHNM staff.

Marc, who was part of the team that recovered the capsule in 2018, said: “It’s incredible to think that I was the first person to touch the lead box since King George V himself. To then receive a letter from our current King, recognising that discovery and our efforts, is a huge honour for me personally and for everyone at UHNM.”

The capsule was found behind a foundation stone laid by King George V during his visit, when he also granted the infirmary its royal decree. After being secured by the UHNM team, the box was transferred to the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, where it was safely kept until this year’s City of Stoke-on-Trent Centenary Celebrations.

It was finally opened on 5 June with items including newspapers, coins, a programme from George V visit all unveiled.

UHNM Director of estates, Facilities and PFI, Lorraine Whitehead said: “To receive recognition from His Majesty for this remarkable discovery is a special  moment for our Trust. The time capsule is a powerful reminder of the hospital’s history and the generations of staff who have cared for our communities. As we look to the future, we are hoping to recreate a modern time capsule for future generations to discover.”