Solar Eclipse at Sycamore Shoals State Park

On Saturday, October 14, 2023, our area will be treated to a partial solar eclipse as the moon passes
between earth and the sun blocking out a portion of the solar disc. Although this is not a total eclipse,
those in our area will still experience an eclipse magnitude of 54%. Join us at Sycamore Shoals State
Historic Park and participate in several activities geared around the eclipse as you enjoy one of nature’s
most spectacular wonders.

Join our interpretive staff to learn the difference between a total and an annular solar eclipse. Hear how
the 18 th century Native people and early settlers regarded eclipses and learn about Sycamore Shoals
State Park’s unique connection with the moon.

You should never look at the sun without proper eye protection. ISO certified solar viewing glasses are
available in the park gift shop for only $2.95 each. There will be other ways in which you can safely view
the eclipse. For an up-close view you can take a peek through the telescope which will be set up on the
park grounds. Also, supplies will be provided to make a simple pinhole solar projector.
At Sycamore Shoals the eclipse will begin at 11:47 AM. The maximum coverage point, where the eclipse
magnitude will be at 54%, will occur at 1:12 PM, and the eclipse will end at 2:41 PM. The event is free
and is a great opportunity for your family to come to one of Tennessee’s most historic places to witness
a historic and rare event.

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is located at 1651 West Elk Ave. in Elizabethton, TN. For additional
information on this special park event please visit www.sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com or
www.tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals. You may also call the park at 423-543-5808. For more
on the eclipse in general, and for tips on how to safely view an eclipse, please visit
https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/october-14-2023

Event Schedule
11:00 – Event Opens
11:47 – Start of the Eclipse: Total Duration 2 hours 54 minutes. *Please use ISO certified solar viewing
glasses or lenses to observe the sun during all phases of the eclipse! Special eclipse viewing glasses
available in the park gift shop.
12:30 – “Eclipses, A Natural and Cultural Phenomenon”: What is the difference between a total and an
annular solar eclipse? How did early settlers and Native people regard eclipses? What is Sycamore
Shoals State Park’s unique connection to the moon? Join Museum Curator Chad Bogart to find out and
learn more about this rare celestial occurrence.
1:12 – Maximum Obscurity: At this point the moon will cover 54% of the sun. *Please continue to use
eye protection!
2:41 – End of the Eclipse
3:00 – Event Closed
All activities are weather dependent. Programs are subject to cancellation in the event of inclement
weather.