When Albuquerque balloonists Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson completed the first non-stop crossing of the Atlantic Ocean by gas balloon, accompanied by their partner Larry Newman, history was created. It was to commemorate this legendary accomplishment that the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum was established, in honor of this celebrated duo.
When the museum was unveiled it was an educational institution, which houses intriguing exhibits and showcases informative programs detailing the history, science and art of ballooning. The exhibitions, collections and programs adopt an international perspective and are designed to suit a wide range of audiences. The museum houses one of the world's finest collections of ballooning equipment and memorabilia. The development of ballooning over the ages is skillfully depicted through the historic, scientific and artistic objects which reflect the milestones achieved in this arena. The museum's collection includes over fifty historic and contemporary Gondolas, many of which are accompanied by their complete balloon systems. Amongst these, the gondolas related to scientific and record setting flights hold a unique significance. You can even find the groundbreaking Stratolab and Sky car which are stratospheric flight gondolas. The collection of historic gondolas and artifacts includes the World War I observation balloon and even the Victorian parachute used by Marie Merton as she jumped out of balloons from heights of up to 10,000 feet.
The collection of books in the museum includes rare and contemporary material on hot air balloons, gas balloons and airships. You will also find a rare and extensive collection of commemorative medallions, medals, coins and tokens. The art assemblage ranges from historic jewelry to lithographs and serigraphs. The compilation of memorabilia that the museum houses, includes early pins, certificates, calling cards to illustrate the significance mementos in the journey through space and time.
The museum also supports an educational program via which they design curricular materials which can be included in regional classrooms. The museum has also launched a Balloon Summer Camp and various other activities which are scheduled all through the year.
The Balloon Museum also rents out locations for weddings, business meets and other special events, where you can rent a conference room or even the entire building, depending on your requirements. The building which is designed to resemble an inflated balloon lying on its side, also has roof decks, balconies and a large plaza in front of the balloon gallery to visitors to have a stunning view of the ballooning events and the Sandia Mountains.
The details of the various activities and workshops that are organized by the museum are regularly updated on their website. You can visit the Balloon Museum from Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. For further information, you can refer to their website http://www.balloonmuseum.com or call 505-768-6020.
Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum
9201 Balloon Museum Drive
Albuquerque,
NM 87113-1554
