The small town of Waitsfield, Vermont, nestled five hours north of New York by car, found itself in a unique position on April 8th. Situated within the shadow swath cast from Mexico to Canada during the total eclipse of the sun, it became the focal point for many eager eclipse chasers, including myself.
Having long been fascinated by astronomy, I embarked on a journey to Waitsfield with the kind of ecstatic anticipation usually reserved for a long-awaited reunion. Growing up with a father who instilled in me a love for the cosmos, I had spent countless hours photographing celestial phenomena through my own telescope. Yet, the one event that had eluded me was witnessing a total eclipse.
As I made my way from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene countryside of Vermont, the transition was both stark and beautiful. Snow-covered landscapes, quaint barns adorned with quilting patterns, and the quiet reverence of the townspeople all added to the anticipation of the impending eclipse.
Arriving at the Inn at Round Barn Farm, I was met with a mix of disappointment and hope as cloud cover threatened to obscure the celestial event. However, the inn’s staff had prepared a comforting atmosphere with cozy chairs, blankets, and treats to enjoy during the eclipse. Surrounded by fellow eclipse enthusiasts, including a group of young people from Boston, I felt a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement.
As the eclipse began, the atmosphere shifted, with a sun dog appearing in the sky and the surroundings growing eerily dark. Through special eclipse glasses, we watched in awe as the sun transformed into a coral disc, gradually being consumed by the moon. The moment of totality was a surreal experience, with the world around us bathed in an otherworldly light.
Despite a brief mishap with viewing the eclipse without proper protection, the event left me feeling deeply moved and awestruck. It was a moment of unity and wonder among strangers, brought together by the rare spectacle unfolding in the sky. And as the sun reemerged from behind the moon, casting its light once again on Waitsfield, I felt a sense of gratitude for having witnessed such a rare and beautiful event.