A total solar eclipse has raced across North America Monday including South Central Illinois that was thrown into virtual darkness for just over two minutes. Locally and across most of the country, the weather cooperated.
Traffic problems didn’t occur in the local area although traffic was heavier than normal on I-57 and 64. Most area events attracted some from out of state and out of the area, but the crowd wasn’t as big as many expected.
One of the out of state visitors who filled the grounds of the Centralia Regional Library was John Hendrickson of Seattle, Washington.
“To see the eclipse, that was our main goal. I’ve seen a total eclipse before, but our son who is 15 has never seen one. We did it for him mostly. Our son is a big train nut, so his fun was riding the train to Chicago.”
As part of a partnership with the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, several busloads of those staying in hotels in Greenville as well as Greenville College students came to Centralia for the event.
At the Bryan Bennett Library in Salem, Librarian Kim Keller was pleased with the number participating in the Planetarium Experience over the past few months in preparation for the eclipse.
“We were a little apprehensive knowing our means are more humble. We have had such wonderful reviews, and our presenter has received so many compliments on her presentation. People have just been very happy. We’ve seen a lot of families, it has been wonderful. A couple families from Wisconsin, Chicago, St Louis and Litchfield….It’s just been a really nice experience.”
There are additional Planetarium Experience events available free of charge Tuesday and Wednesday for those who haven’t had a chance to view it.
Keller says this will not be the last use of the planter an.
“There’s plans in the works for more programs in the future. Different programs, but maybe the planetarium program growing a little bit. We will see.'”
Those who watched the solar eclipse at the library were treated to free ice cream from the Artic Cow. There were also gatherings at the Marion County Fairgrounds, the Orchard Shopping Center, and at the Iron Saddle.
There won’t be another coast-to-coast spectacle on the continent until 2045.
Those who gathered at the Bryan Bennett Library in Salem for the eclipse were treated to free ice cream from the Artic Cow. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Food trucks and a band were available for those who came to the Orchard Shopping Center to view the eclipse. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Kaskaskia College students view the eclipse as ‘totality’ approaches. (KC photo)
Visitors watch Monday’s solar eclipse from the lawn of the Centralia Regional Library.
Kids games and pony rides were among the offerings for those coming to view the eclipse at Iron Saddle. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
