On April 8th, a total solar eclipse captivated millions across North America. Elsah, with its roller-coaster terrain, lush forests, and bluff-top river views, offered a prime spot for this celestial spectacle. Dubbed the eclipse crossroads by the Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources, Southern Illinois was at the heart of the eclipse's path in both 2017 and 2024.

The Village of Elsah Museum opened on April 6, showcasing the annual photography exhibit. Local photographers received awards for their stunning work. Visit the museum on weekends from 1-4 pm, April through October, to see the winning entries.

Farley’s Music Hall was abuzz as it hosted the first Hosmer-Williams lecture of 2024, themed "Meeting Mike: Mammoth or Mastodon?" The lecture centered around a recently unearthed tusk at Principia campus, captivating a diverse crowd ranging from curious youngsters to seasoned scholars. The event drew a full house, underscoring the community's keen interest in prehistoric discoveries.

The village's efforts in creating a leaf mulch pile offer a sustainable solution for disposing of autumn leaves. This initiative supports the environment by providing an eco-friendly alternative to leaf burning, which can aggravate respiratory issues and disrupt the quality of life in our community. Residents can contribute to the mulch pile located at the intersection of Beltrees and Mill Street. Your participation helps maintain our air quality and supports those with health sensitivities. Thank you for choosing to recycle your leaves responsibly!

The Elsah Museum's 2024 Photo Exhibit Reception on April 6th was a hit, drawing over forty visitors to admire historical and natural photography under sunny skies. Esteemed juror Carmen Troesser and a colleague praised the high quality and difficulty in selecting winners. The exhibit, featuring themes of Native Species and Historic Abstractions, showcased diverse works, including Carolyn Schlueter's Best of Show. The exhibit runs until June, with plans for new themes and rules in 2025. Thanks to the community and museum staff for their support.

Elsah offers a stunning display of all four seasons, with Spring highlighting its natural beauty. Nestled by the Mississippi River bluffs, it's the perfect place for a leisurely walk among blooming flora and unique architecture. Meet our friendly residents and enjoy the tranquil pace. An unforgettable visit awaits. We hope to see you soon!

Elsah's 2024 Fall Festival is set for September 28, 11 am to 4 pm. Thanks to many volunteers from the recent tourism meeting, leaders are in place, but more help is needed for planning and the event day. Join us to make this festival a success. Next planning meeting: April 11, 5:15 pm at the Civic Center.

Three Rivers Community Farm invites you to its annual plant sale on April 20-21 and 27-28, from 9 am to 4 pm. Located at 22867 Chautauqua, north of the village, the sale features organically grown annuals, perennials, herbs, and vegetable starts, priced between $3.55 and $5.75. Organic potting soil, compost, and fertilizers are also available. Enjoy a beautiful drive to this spring event. For more details, visit www.threeriverscommunityfarm.com.

After a winter break, the museum at 27 La Salle St. reopens April 6, 1-4 pm. Visit Saturdays or Sundays through October to explore relics from the mid-19th century, a time when local rivers were vital transport routes. Support the museum's preservation by donating to HEF, PO Box 117, Elsah, IL 62028, or online at www.historicelsah.org. Last year's donations restored the village's original bell, now proudly displayed.

The Elsah Village Museum at 26 Lasalle Street unveils a photography exhibit on April 6, 3-4pm, celebrating local talent in Native Species and Historical Abstraction. The public is invited to the opening and awards event. The exhibit runs until June 30. Next contest entries are due by January 2025. For more, email Danne.Rhaesa@yahoo.com or visit www.historicelsah.org.