Thousands of people crowded parks and other public areas throughout Butler County to witness the Great Eclipse of 2024 Monday. The weather cooperated as skies cleared hours before the celestial event. Families and individuals from all walks of life came together at venues like Marcum Park in Hamilton, Heroes Park in Fairfield Township, and Memorial Park in Oxford to take in the historic sight, sitting on blankets and lawn chairs, and wearing eclipse glasses. Starting at 3:08pm, the skies darkened, and the sun dimmed until it became totally obscured by the moon, as the crowds gasped and cheered at the eerie, yet beautiful scene. Depending on the location, the sun stayed behind the moon for a few seconds, or close to three minutes before coming out with a "diamond ring" effect. In Trenton, more than 20 couples exchanged wedding vows prior to the eclipse. The next total eclipse in Ohio will take place on September 14, 2099.

(Eclipse Photo Courtesy of Shay Smith)