What does a Duck, a Sheep, and a Rooster have in common?
By: Bill Cuebas
Well… with our recent visit to the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, we were taught about balloon flight and where it all began by some very capable volumeters willing to answer every question we had.
Hot air balloons originated in the 18th century when the Montgolfier brothers achieved the first manned flights, proving human flight possible and leading to further progress.
1872
Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier started hot air balloon experiments in Annonay, France.
June 1873
The brothers showcased an unmanned hot air balloon in Annonay, France.
September 19, 1783
The first hot air balloon carrying passengers—a sheep, a duck, and a rooster—was launched at Versailles in the presence of King Louis XVI. There are many reports that the Sheep lead a complete life inside the Kingdom… but nothing is really stated about that happened to the other 2 birds.


The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is a leading institution devoted to the art, culture, science, history, sport, and spectacle of ballooning. Since its opening in 2005, the museum has maintained one of the world’s most distinguished collections of ballooning equipment and memorabilia. Its location in Albuquerque, widely regarded as the capital of ballooning, is especially appropriate.
Located on the southern boundary of Balloon Fiesta Park, the balloon museum plays a central role in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, although its overall mission encompasses a much wider range of activities and interests.



Steve Stucker’s Balloon Fiesta
Pin Jacket and Hat.
Steve Stucker is a beloved local weatherman and has been a staple at the Balloon Fiesta for mare than thirty years. He is probably most recognized for the now-famous… that adds nearly 12-pounds to his weight when
Steve is out displaying it during the Fiesta. It is housed at the Museum for everyone to see during the year.
Take a look at the video produced by Greg and Beverly Wise during the 2024 – International Balloon Fiesta.

Bill Cuebas
Bill Cuebas is the Co-founder/Publisher of Ignite Golf Network and co-host of the weekly golf talk radio show, Biggs Golf Talk. After spending more than a decade working in PR and Communications within the golf industry, Bill knows what drives the professionals and customers and actively seeks to provide the communication and input needed to help industry leaders be successful in presenting these things to the consumers. Bill knows that having a passion for something increases the desire and ability to do the best you can do. This passion has allowed Bill to combine his love of golf and country in a unique way with his charitable work with different organizations. Bill’s years in law enforcement gives him strong communication skills and a keen understanding of how to read people which are invaluable tools when seeking to promote and grow a business. Bill “ The GolfFather” Cuebas
