Volunteers at an archaeological dig in northern France discovered a small glass vial containing a 200-year-old message from archaeologist P.J. Féret, who conducted a dig at the site in January 1825.

The note described his work and membership in scientific societies, possibly intended as inspiration for future archaeologists.

Guillaume Blondel, head of the local archaeological service, called the find “an absolutely magic moment,” CBS News has reported.

If authenticated, Féret’s message would surpass the current record for the oldest message in a bottle, which is 131 years old.

Written by B.C. Begley