A time capsule dating back to at least 1898 has been discovered at the site of a former church in New Jersey.

The lead-lined capsule was found by builders in the cornerstone of the former Hilton United Methodist Church in Maplewood.

The church, which was built in the 1800s, was torn down last year to make way for an apartment complex.

At an unveiling ceremony on Saturday at the local library, the contents of the time capsule were revealed to the public.

Items discovered included a copy of the New Testament, a copy of Methodist newspaper the Christian Advocate, writings about the Hilton United Church and the front page of the local newspaper from 8 July 1898.

A photograph of the church and church business cards were also inside.

In addition, there were four pennies, a nickel and a dime dating from the 19^th century.

Hundreds of people attended the unveiling ceremony.

According to local media, Mayor Vic De Luca thanked the large crowd for attending the ceremony before introducing a number of speakers who shared their memories about the church.