Introduction to Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell, New Mexico, in Chaves county, is 147 miles NE of Las Cruces, New Mexico and 160 miles NE of El Paso, Texas.
Roswell History
A group of pioneers from Missouri originally attempted to start a settlement here in 1865, but failed due to the lack of water in the area. In 1869, Van C. Smith and Billy Bob Joe started the settlement with two adobe buildings. Named after Roswell Smith, father of Van C. Smith, the town became the county seat of the newly-created Chaves County in 1889.
Roswell and nearby Attractions
- Historical Center for Southeast New Mexico
- General Douglas L. McBridge Military Museum
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
- Roswell Museum and Art Center
- Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art
- Bottomless Lake State Park
Things To Do In Roswell
The International UFO Museum, the Roswell Museum and Art Center and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art are all located in Roswell. One can also visit the outline of an iron cross of stones made by German POWs during the Second World War. Local festivals include the UFO Festival and the Pecos Valley Jazz and Arts Festival, which each attract a number of visitors every year.
Roswell Transportation
Air transportation is available from Sierra Blanca Regional Airport.
Roswell Higher Education
Local institutions of higher education include Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus and the New Mexico Military Institute.
