When people think of Roswell, New Mexico, some think of a purported UFO landing; others think of the television show of the same name. But Roswell is so much more than a town with a colorful history. The city is full of museums, parks, and even some famous residents. It is a vibrant community full of people who are friendly, independent and who just don't take themselves too seriously. In fact, the city embraces the quirky stories surrounding it, and thank to this attitude, has created a thriving tourist trade.

Roswell supports a population of approximately 45,000 residents within its 29 square mile border. The median age of a resident here is 35 years old, with an annual household income of around $30,000 per year. Roswell still has a fairly affordable housing market, with the median value being $50,100. The majority of residents here work in the retail sector. Manufacturing follows in second place.

With its location in the Pecos River Valley, Roswell benefits from an idyllic setting. Perhaps it is the environment that contributes to the city's rich artistic culture. Galleries and museums throughout town display pieces that reflect the history and development of the region, with a special emphasis on the nationally renowned native sons Peter Hurd and Henriette Wyeth. The town's formal gardens often host art shows and gardeners converge in droves for the Pecos Valley Fall Iris Show.

Roswell also supports a Symphony Orchestra, with a forty-year history of annual performances. There are special performaces timed to coincide with art openings at the Roswell Museum and Art Center. For nearly as many years, the Roswell Community Little Theater has entertained audiences throughout southeastern New Mexico. This is true community theater, and residents with an interest in working to stage a successful performance are always welcome.

The Roswell public school system has achieved national acclaim with their "Character Counts!" program. This innovative mission encourages young people to learn and adopt ethics and good character. The focus is to identify adults, both locally and internationally, who exemplify good decision making. Students are then encouraged to learn about the process of identifying and making good decisions and applying that to their own lives. Each year, students, teachers and athletic coaches are rewarded with an annual awards recognition program.

Additionally, public school students in Roswell exceed state and national averages. The city has established a "model elementary school" which has computers in every classroom. This program has been so successful that the town has committed to replicating this program at each elementary school in Roswell. The community stands in overwhelming support of its students and their teachers. Many local businesses award cash prizes to both pupils and educators who meet or exceed certain limits. Over the years, the town has taken note that this informal program encourages folks of all ages to maintain their drive throughout the year.

Now, about those UFO rumors...in 1947, something crashed (or was shot down, depending on who tells the story) on Mac Brazel's ranch. The local sheriff and Army officials came in and removed, well, something. Some say that they took away pieces of a UFO, still others claim it was alien bodies. The final report says that the whole incident was nothing more than a weather balloon. But nearly sixty years later, the Roswell Incident continues to attract controversy. But that's okay with the locals. Every year, the town hosts a weekend-long UFO Festival, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the area and creating an influx of over $5 million into local coffers.

This family-friendly, artistic community has been home to celebrities from actress Demi Moore to singer John Denver. Today, Roswell offers each of its residents something to enjoy as a spectator or jump right in as a participant. Ideal for singles, seniors and families alike, Roswell is the colorful town with a lot going on.


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