Eclipse anniversary: Arkansans look back at when everyone looked up
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – It has been a full trip around the sun since its disappearance a year ago, but the memory of the moment has not faded in the background.
The total solar eclipse across North America happened on April 8, 2024, and caused everyone in its path to look up. One year later, some are still looking back on the few minutes of totality.
Whether it was the 360-degree sunrise, meeting a total eclipse chaser, or a tear from what some called a 'spiritual' experience, a love of nature connected each person.
Elope at the Eclipse couples preparing for big day in Russellville
There was also a love of each other for over 120 couples eloping or renewing their vows under the Russellville eclipse. Trey and Sammi Jo Massingill said it was unforgettable.
'It was as special as our relationship. It couldn't have been better, and I'm glad we did it, and I'm glad he said yes, even though I wasn't even thinking he would,' Sammi Jo said.
'Ethereal and something I'll never forget,' Trey added.
Expectations were a big part of planning for the event. The state estimated as many as 1.5 million out-of-state tourists. Not as many showed up as expected in every community, but they did arrive in force in some communities.
Arkansas Tech University preparing for eclipse, making thousands of dollars off parking
Danielle Housenick, executive director of Main Street Russellville, said the city had over 46,000 visitors from all 50 states and 45 countries.
'That's the part that blew my mind,' Housenick said.
She stated the economic impact will be hard to measure, but it is undeniable. Arkansas Tech University Eclipse Chair Susan West said 10 student organizations received $2,500 each from funds raised through parking and other amenities.
'I will always be proud of everything we did together for that 4 minutes of just bliss,' West said.
Brick City inviting people to 'get Mooned in Malvern'
Once in a lifetime, even though the 2045 eclipse will pass over Arkansas too with over six minutes of totality.
'I guess we should start planning. I'm not going to start planning, but somebody does,' West joked.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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