Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Double Eagle Plaque
Double Eagle Plaque
Double Eagle Plaque

Double Eagle Plaque

Association (1930 - 1985)
Association (1934 - 1983)
Date1977
Mediumwood, metal paint
ClassificationsAwards, Plaques, & Signs
Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Ben Abruzzo
Object numberRS1977.1.1
DescriptionIn September 1977, Maxie Anderson and Ben Abruzzo tried to be the first to cross the Atlantic Ocean in the Double Eagle, a helium balloon. Delays and bad weather caused them to ditch the Double Eagle in 25-foot seas three miles off the coast of Iceland. This plaque, embellished with animated winds and storms, commemorates their harrowing journey. Anderson and Abruzzo, along with Larry Newman, finally crossed the Atlantic in August, 1978. Ben Abruzzo is often credited with being primarily responsible for the international attention the annual Balloon Fiesta receives. This plaque commemorates him and his team's voyage across the Atlantic Ocean.
On View
On view