The beginning of 2025 has seen Charles mark a very special anniversary — the 35th anniversary of The King’s Foundation — by launching the Foundation’s celebrations at Dumfries House. His Majesty founded the charity during his time as Prince of Wales in 1990, building a legacy of transformative change and community development.
The Foundation, driven by the vision of fostering a harmonious society, operates through a variety of programs aimed at uplifting marginalised communities, protecting the environment, and preserving historical traditions. It also invests in preserving cultural legacies, ensuring that art, music, and traditional crafts continue to thrive. Over the decades, The King’s Foundation has become a leading force in demonstrating how heritage and innovation can work hand in hand to create a better future.
The King marked the 35th anniversary of The King’s Foundation by launching a time capsule. (The King’s Foundation)
In starting the anniversary celebrations, The King launched a time capsule project that will unfold over the next 12 months. The capsule will be buried on the Scottish estate of Dumfries House, to be opened in 100 years. This symbolic initiative not only marks the past achievements of the Foundation but also looks forward to the next century of progress.
The time capsule was designed and crafted in oak at the Snowdon School of Furniture, part of The King’s Foundation at Highgrove, by Foundation alumnus Aiden Lawley. Its minimalist design was chosen to celebrate the beauty of British timber, while also leaving space for other students and alumni to add decorative elements throughout the year. This evolving piece will ultimately serve as a tribute to The King’s Foundation’s dedication to preserving and promoting traditional heritage skills.
His Majesty had the honour of placing the first items into the time capsule, including a pair of secateurs he uses for gardening and a handwritten letter reflecting on the Foundation’s journey and hopes for the future. These deeply personal contributions underline The King’s lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and the communities the Foundation serves. Other attendees, including students, alumni, and ambassadors, were also invited to contribute items that symbolised the achievements and legacy of The King’s Foundation.
His Majesty spoke to the crowds at Dumfries House. (The King’s Foundation)
As the year progresses, the Foundation will continue collecting items from individuals and groups that reflect its wide-ranging impact. From community projects and architectural designs to educational materials and craft artefacts, each contribution will highlight a different facet of the Foundation’s influence.
Kristina Murrin CBE, Chief Executive of The King’s Foundation, expressed her pride in the organisation’s accomplishments:
‘We are so proud of what The King’s Foundation has achieved over the past 35 years. I hope those uncovering the time capsule in 2125 will recognise the positive impact both The King and His Foundation have had on the world and its communities.’
She also highlighted the significance of launching the celebrations at Dumfries House, stating: ‘We are thrilled to begin celebrations for our 35th anniversary today at Dumfries House, which is not only our headquarters but very much the heart of The King’s Foundation. Our early work at the Institute for Architecture formed the basis of the expanding and expansive work which is epitomised at Dumfries House today, so it is only fitting to celebrate this milestone on site with His Majesty The King and our students, alumni, staff, and ambassadors.’
Charles placed a number of items in the time capsule, including a special letter. (The King’s Foundation).
From its roots in supporting local communities to its global initiatives promoting sustainability and cultural preservation, The King’s Foundation continues to be a shining example of how visionary leadership can leave a lasting impact on the world.
