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NHL commemorates America’s 250th with Bettman's letter for 2276

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 5:25 PM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

NHL commemorates America’s 250th with Bettman's letter for 2276

Summary

The NHL, in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, has placed a letter from Commissioner Gary Bettman in a national time capsule. Sealed for 250 years, the capsule will be buried at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia and opened on July 4, 2276. Bettman’s letter discusses hockey’s significance in American culture, the revered Stanley Cup, and connects the sport's history to community and national unity. A duplicate of the letter is displayed at the Hockey Hall of Fame through Dec. 31, 2026, while the project aims to highlight hockey’s evolution and impact within the United States.

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By the Numbers

•Bettman's letter sealed for 250 years will be opened in 2276.
•The time capsule is part of the America250 initiative.
•NHL emphasizes hockey's community and cultural impact.
•A duplicate of the letter is at the Hockey Hall of Fame until December.
•Recent successes for U.S. teams were mentioned, including Olympic gold medals.

Latest Updates

5:25 PMYahoo Sports — Gary Bettman’s letter to be opened in 2276 as NHL honors America’s 250th

What they're saying

"
The NHL has secured a place in American history through a unique contribution to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. Commissioner Gary Bettman submitted a letter that will remain sealed inside a national time capsule until July 4, 2276. The capsule…
— Yahoo Sports

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