ON MARCH 14, the Roswell Museum (which remains closed because of a 2024 flood) commemorates the centennial anniversary of one of scientist Robert H. Goddard’s greatest achievements: launching the world’s first liquid-fueled rocket. “It is a big day for anyone interested in rocket science,” says Caroline Brooks, executive director at the Roswell Museum. A quiet inventor with explosive ideas, Goddard developed the first successful liquid-propelled rocket in 1926 while living in Worcester, Massachusetts. Shortly after, Goddard moved to Roswell, where he continued his innovative research (and could often be seen around town enjoying a bit of plein-air painting). “It’s technology that’s still in use today by NASA,” Brooks says. Held at Goddard High School, in Roswell, the celebration features Goddard-themed displays, hands-on activities, an inflatable planetarium, and rocket launches. Here are three things you should know about the father of modern rocketry.
Not everyone appreciated his genius. Although he was a shy person, Goddard’s experiments occasionally drew attention from the locals. “He caught the brush on fire on the farm he was working from,” Brooks says. “And his neighbors would complain about the noise.”
Charles Lindbergh gave him a lift. The famed aviator caught wind of Goddard’s work and helped him relocate to Roswell, Brooks says, “where he would have a remote space with good weather all year round to continue his work.”
His wife patented his work. After Goddard’s death in 1945, his wife, Esther Goddard, filed posthumous patents on his behalf. “By the time she was finished, there were 214 patents in his name,” Brooks says.
Indulge in 315 Restaurant & Wine Bar’s seared foie gras on toasted brioche.
Photograph by Douglas Merriam.
SANTA FE RESTAURANT WEEK
March 2–11
Expand your palate without stressing your wallet during Santa Fe Restaurant Week, March 2–11. Celebrating its 15th year, the culinary event features many of the City Different’s hottest restaurants—including Izanami Restaurant, Joseph’s Culinary Pub, Palace, and Sazón—serving special menus at discounted prices.
Catch Tinderbox Circus Sideshow at the Oddities & Curiosities Expo.
Photograph courtesy of Oddities & Curiosities Expo.
National Fiery Foods & BBQ Show, Albuquerque
2/27–3/1
Spicy-food fiends and novices alike can find delicious treats at this festival that brings hundreds of vendors to Sandia Resort & Casino. Try samples of salsa, hot sauce, delectable barbecue, and sweet-and-spicy jelly.
The Waddington Brothers, Silver City
3/5
The Grant County Community Concert Association presents the four-brother ensemble from North Dakota at the Western New Mexico University Fine Arts Center Theater.
Oddities & Curiosities Expo, Albuquerque
3/7–3/8
The celebration of strange and unusual objects features everything from taxidermy to tarot cards, plus fun experiences like photo ops, sideshow performances, and tarot readings.
Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Spring Fest, Albuquerque
3/13–3/15
Looking to spruce up your space for spring? Peruse thousands of works by more than 150 artists at the 34th annual arts festival at Expo New Mexico, in Albuquerque.
The Bluebird Cafe Songwriters’ Concert Series, Santa Fe
3/20
Songwriters and artists who have played at the renowned Bluebird Cafe, in Nashville, perform intimate sets followed by question-and-answer sessions at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection.
Pond Skim, Red River
3/22
Attempt to snowboard or ski across a pond at this funny and thrilling event to cap off the ski season at Red River Ski & Summer Area.
A Word with Writers: Erik Larson, Albuquerque
3/27
Larson sits in conversation with Santa Fe author Hampton Sides at the KiMo Theatre to discuss Larson’s newest book, The Demon of Unrest.
The Sierra County Rock and Gem Society invites you to the Truth or Consequences Rock & Gem Show this weekend, featuring minerals, gems, and hands-on activities.
