GALLERY: The Big Country goes out for eclipse viewings
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Across the Big Country, residents and visitors were excited to see the solar eclipse in about 97% totality. Let’s see just a few of those watch parties!
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At Abilene Christian University (ACU), some classes were canceled for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the astronomical event. Kaden Vasquez, a senior ACU student, told KTAB/KRBC he would be traveling to Gatesville, Texas in a group of about 75 students and faculty to see the eclipse in its full glory.
Just a few blocks away, Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) students took to the lawn to see the anomaly.
“It got colder and darker, and not a ton changed. But, it’s cool to see,” said HSU student Emma Owens. “Especially seeing all these students out here.”
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In Downtown Abilene, The Grace Museum hosted flocks of spectators in its courtyard and rooftop to see the sight.
Out at the Abilene Zoo, the animals seemed to think the darkened skies were a sign that it was time to sleep.
Even here at the KTAB/KRBC station, folks were excited to step out and witness the solar eclipse!
Down at the east end of the Big Country, the City of Comanche, which usually holds roughly 4,000 residents on a daily basis, welcomed visitors from all over the country for the eclipse.
“Travelers have been coming from Florida, from Las Vegas, Nevada. We’ve had a bunch of out-of-towners,” boasted Comanche business owner, Rebecca Conley of JW Hardin Wine Co.
To help the visitors feel more welcomed, most establishments handed out little gifts.
“Pretty much anybody open today is doing something special for the eclipse. So, wherever you stop in, you’ll probably have a little treat of some sort that you’ll get for just being here in Comanche and celebrating the eclipse,” Micah Taylor, owner of Overflow Coffee Bar, said.
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