Alton, Mo. – Do you look back on time to see what you did, how you have grown, and how you are looking forward to future events? Do you remember where you were on April 8, 2024, a year ago? That was the date of the Great American Eclipse.
Eclipse
As a reminder, an enormous eclipse traversed our country, with Alton getting totality. People traveled to Alton and Oregon County. In preparation for travellers, schools dismissed for the day. Eclipse glasses were sold everywhere! Campgrounds were full to capacity! Local patrons were shopping early to avoid sellouts. Towns had festivals and live music. People bought eclipse shirts, cup coolers, and other advertising statements.
Elsewhere
Area-wide, West Plains hosted large gatherings in parking lots, at the fairgrounds, and the race track. The interstates on Missouri’s east side were jammed for hours. Visitors were attempting to attend Poplar Bluff’s celebrations and were disappointed as they sat on the road while darkness overcame them. Missouri’s west side encountered some darkness, but it was not nearly as dark as here in Alton.
Major Event
This was a significant event for the area, and many businesses took advantage of it. The next total solar eclipse for this area will not be for another seventy years. This was a fond memory for most people.
Nonetheless, next year, 2026, is the 250th birthday of the United States. President Trump is already planning a huge celebration commemorating the day. Will Alton and Oregon County have plans? We will have to watch as the time gets closer.
