Two iconic statues returned to Boston’s historic Old State House Sunday following a complete restoration.
The lion and unicorn statues were restored after a 1901 time capsule was discovered in the head of the lion in September.
Papers were found inside the time capsule, along with a red book inside the copper box roughly the size of a modern shoebox.
The time capsule was sealed inside the lion’s head in 1901 and then forgotten – until recently. Rumors of its existence were confirmed last month when the statue was taken down from the Old State House for refurbishing.
The return of the statues marks the completion of a larger restoration project including work on the masonry, and wood of the building’s facade and major repairs to a balcony.
After the unveiling, the sculptures were hoisted to their perchers on the main facade of the 300-year-old landmark building located at 206 Washington St.
Bostonian Society President Brian LeMay said the restorations to both statues are impressive.
“The shiny new gold and silver coats on the statues will be truly dazzling,” LeMay said.
The Bostonian Society, steward of the building since 1881, have inserted a new time capsule into the lion statue carrying a variety of items proposed by the public.
Inventory of the new capsule includes letters from Boston journalists, a photograph of current Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, a photo of former Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and tickets from the Fenway Park centennial Boston Red Sox game.