UHNM Charity supports opening of historic time capsule to celebrate 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent

UHNM Charity proudly supported the opening of a historic time capsule as part of the centenary celebrations marking 100 years since the formation of the city of Stoke-on-Trent.

The commemorative event, held in partnership with local organisations and community leaders, celebrated the city’s rich history and the extraordinary contributions of its people over the last century.

The time capsule, originally sealed in 1925, was opened in a special ceremony attended by local dignitaries, hospital staff, and members of the public.

As part of the centenary project, UHNM Charity contributed to an engaging public exhibition showcasing the contents of the capsule. The exhibition, hosted at the Captain Tom cabin, at Royal Stoke University Hospital, gave visitors a rare opportunity to view historical items, photographs, letters, and memorabilia that captured life in Stoke-on-Trent.

Lisa Thomson, UHNM Charity Director, said: “We are incredibly proud to support such a meaningful celebration of Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage. The time capsule and exhibition offer a poignant glimpse into the city’s past and remind us of the vital role that our hospitals have played in shaping our community. It was truly moving to see the public engage with the history on display."

The celebrations also included a programme of live entertainment organised by UHNM Charity to mark the occasion. Music was provided by the City of Stoke Symphony Orchestra, bringing a powerful and nostalgic soundtrack to the day. Visitors enjoyed performances from street entertainers and poets, who entertained guests at the main hospital entrance throughout the morning, before bringing joy to patients and staff across wards and departments during the afternoon.
One of the standout attractions was a vintage ambulance from the 1920s, giving visitors the chance to step back in time and explore a piece of healthcare history, highlighting how far medical transport and treatment have come in the last century.

Gemma Thomas, UHNM Project Manager for arts, said: “The time capsule and the centenary celebrations for the city, bring into focus the importance of the hospital and the generations of dedicated hospital staff both past and present.

“It has been a once in a lifetime opportunity to open and receive a carefully crafted message from those who were committed to care of our local people one hundred years ago.

“It was a pleasure to work across departments and sites at UHNM and be a part of the citywide celebrations lead by Stoke-on-Trent City Council who partnered on our event.”

Items of the time capsule can be viewed in the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Stoke-on-Trent city centre (Hanley).