Frankfort Celebrates Historical Roots with Time Capsule Event

When Frankfort Mayor Keith Ogle and his wife, Kim, unveiled items from a 1976 time capsule, they discovered a package that sparked a smile. Inside a clear plastic bag was a mug for the Frankfort Fall Festival and two Bicentennial-themed beer cans. Mayor Ogle humorously noted, “I’ll bet these were the only two beers consumed at the festival.” At that time, the event, once called Sauerkraut and Weiner Day, only drew 40,000 attendees. Now, it attracts 250,000 visitors and is recognized as one of the best events in the country by Sunshineartist.com.

The Frankfort Fall Festival highlights Frankfort’s growth since the Bicentennial. On display at Breidert Green during the capsule opening were hundreds of historical documents and artifacts. The items will also be showcased at the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum, located at 1312 Kansas St.

Connie Behnke-Rotondo and Gene Gerardi, well-known Frankfort residents and business owners, initially sealed the time capsule. They were present on Saturday to witness its opening 50 years later, coinciding with an Independence Day celebration featuring music by the Frankfort Brass Band. Behnke-Rotondo, who opened a local photo studio in 1965, recalled, “When I arrived more than 50 years ago, the population was 750. Moving here was the best decision we made.” Now, the village boasts over 20,000 residents, according to the 2020 census.

Years after settling in Frankfort, Behnke-Rotondo became the first female president of the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, getting involved in various Bicentennial projects including the time capsule. “In 1976, we were dancing to disco, dining at Kelly’s Wagon Wheel, and enjoying breakfast at the Little Oasis,” she said. “Everything was desirable and fun.”

Among the time capsule’s treasures were documents, photos, and other items from over 40 contributors. It catered to history enthusiasts but also included playful items. Besides the beer cans and Fall Fest mug, items included a phone book, a Sears catalog, restaurant menus, and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls made by a local resident.

This is a very special window into our past. – Keith Ogle

Mayor Ogle emphasized the forward-thinking nature of the capsule’s creators. “They hoped we would open it in a moment of pride, reflection, and unity,” he noted. Kim Ogle highlighted the significance of Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, crafted in 1976 by a local resident, during the unveiling.

Founders of the capsule believed in purposeful progress. “We honor their optimism that Frankfort would continue to grow and thrive,” said Mayor Ogle. Breidert Green, named for village’s first administrator, Burton Breidert, included a 1976 letter from his wife, Francis. She wrote about the community’s spirit of enthusiasm and cooperation during major events like the Fall Festivals of 1975 and 1976.

The vault, originally bricked into a cornerstone of what was Heritage Hall, now part of Morgan Money Management, was donated by Girardi Funeral Home. It now rests at the Frankfort Area Historical Society Museum. Plans continue for celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States, including a special military exhibit recognizing local military service members and an America 250 mural with face cutouts. The museum is also distributing a limited number of small U.S. flags.

Reporter Jeff Vorva, covering the event, provides insights into this unique commemorative affair.