My place was directly inthe path of totality and within a few miles of where a total eclipse crossed paths in August of 2017. It was a big deal for our area in 2017 and 2024, I wouldn't have though it but alot of people traveled long distances to be here to see it twice, some determined to stand in the exact same spot they were standing in 2017.
My wife and I watched it from our backyard each time.
My county has a population of roughly 55-60,000 people and there were easily 100,000 visitors into this county the past 4 days. Spread that across the other counties of Southern Illinois and yes, it was a big deal for this region, and outside of Jackson County, IL it was equally as busy and visited.
Alot of people spent money here with local owned places, alot of local people (including me) were glad they came and enjoyed, spent, and had memories. I thanked them all as I met them, invited them back to enjoy when it is less occupied, and gave all the good intel I could on eateries, trailheads and directions.
I didn't venture off the farm until it was over and traffic on my normally not so buy neck of the woods had died down. When my son and I jumped on the side by side and went on patrol I noticed there wasn't any more trash than before the visitors were here and it was quiet again.
It really was an enjoyable time, my aunt and uncle across the farm had a nice family get together and the out of town kids enjoyed the farm for a day or two.
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