The Crypt of Civilization is not a typical “walk-through museum” but rather a sealed time vault that tells a story: it was built to preserve life, knowledge, culture, and ordinary everyday objects from the early 20th century for people in the far future.
The chamber was constructed between 1937 and 1940, under the guidance of Dr. Thornwell Jacobs (then president of Oglethorpe University), who felt it was their “archaeological duty” to leave a record of modern life. It was sealed shut on May 28, 1940, and is not to be opened until May 28, 8113—over six thousand years later.
Inside are over 2,000 cubic feet of items: microfilmed copies of about 800 authoritative non-fiction books and 200 works of fiction; samples of clothing; scientific instruments; models; seed samples; everyday household goods like typewriters, toothbrushes, and even a container of Budweiser beer (specially sealed) among more whimsical items like toys and novelties.
Special features include a generator driven by a windmill (in case there’s no electricity in the far future) and a device intended to teach the English language if needed.
The physical structure is impressive: the chamber is roughly 20 feet long × 10 feet high × 10 feet deep, built on bedrock, topped with a thick stone roof, and lined internally with enamel plates embedded in pitch for insulation and protection. The steel door is welded shut and includes a stainless steel plaque with a message to the people of the future.
Atmosphere & What You’ll Actually See
Because the Crypt is sealed, you cannot go inside or inspect the contents firsthand. What visitors can see is the sealed stainless steel door located in the basement of Phoebe Hearst Hall at Oglethorpe University, plus any informational displays or plaques nearby that explain the Crypt’s history.
The exterior—especially the door—is art-deco inspired, with decorative “moon hubcap” elements and an emblematic design typical of the era.
Walking through the area gives a sense of solemnity and scale. You feel the weight not just of the metal and stone, but of time itself. The idea that this space is meant to endure millennia adds an aura that few attractions can match.
Other Considerations: What to Know Before Visiting
So can I go inside? No—you cannot. The contents are permanently sealed, and access is restricted. Only the door and external signage are visible to the public.
What’s the cost / hours / tours? There is very little information about public tours or regular visiting hours specific to the Crypt itself. Since you can only view the door and descriptions, visiting the Oglethorpe University campus is essentially what people do. It may help to contact the university’s visitor center ahead of time to see if they have interpretative materials or guided tours that include the Crypt.
Best time to visit / setting: Campus visits are pleasant in good weather. Since the Crypt’s door is indoors (inside Phoebe Hearst Hall), rain or heat won’t affect seeing the main attraction.
Is it good for kids / families? Absolutely—but set expectations. Kids will likely be more fascinated by the idea (e.g. “things from 1930s being saved for 8113 AD!”) rather than by seeing lots of physical objects up close. It’s more of a thought-provoking, curiosity-latched place than a hands-on experience.
Unique factors & some controversies: The Crypt reflects cultural values of the 1930s: what was considered worthy of preservation, including items that today might feel odd. For example, choices like a “Negro doll” are now viewed through different, more critical lenses. Some critics have raised questions about which cultures were represented, whose voices were preserved, and what was omitted.
Why You Should See It
Even though you can’t enter, the Crypt of Civilization is rare. There are few places where time, ambition, and human curiosity combine so fully. It’s a powerful reminder: we trust there will be someone, somewhere, thousands of years hence, who might open it. And that makes you think not just about what’s in the past, but what we choose to leave behind.
Crypt of Civilization
📍 Phoebe Hearst Hall, Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Website: https://crypt.oglethorpe.edu/
