A time capsule was recently found during demolition of the former Joseph C. Caruso Elementary School in Keansburg. 

The small metal box was discovered encased in the cornerstone of the building by the general contractor responsible for the demolition of the Caruso building in mid-November. Tricon Enterprises, Inc. workers freed the box with a chisel. 

Inside were six “one cent” coins dating back to the early 1800’s, a copy of The Keansburg Beacon dated December 15, 1921, a few photos and a program from the Dedication Ceremony in which the time capsule was placed in the cornerstone.  The Keansburg School District intends to display the contents of the time capsule in the new school.

The New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) joined Gerald North, Superintendent of the Keansburg School District, and other district officials to unveil the contents of a time capsule found during the demolition of the former Joseph C. Caruso Elementary School. “We are sad to see the Caruso building come down,” said Superintendent North. “However we understand the demolition of the building is a positive step towards the construction of a new Joseph C. Caruso Elementary School improving our facilities and our student’s opportunities.”

“The contents of this time capsule will serve as a reminder to the students and the Keansburg community of the long history of the Joseph C. Caruso Elementary School,” said SDA CEO Marc Larkins. 

The original 58,000 square-foot Joseph C. Caruso Elementary School is being demolished to provide a 3.15 acre site for a new facility. It was in poor condition, with roof leaks, mold, and significant deficiencies in mechanical, life safety and functionality. Students were relocated to temporary educational facilities rather than undertake repairs at a prohibitive cost

The new school will provide an additional 736 seats for students in grades K- Fourth Grade.

It is expected to be ready for the 2016-2017 school year.