First Liquid Propellant Rocket Launch.

First Rocket Launched Here

A small granite obelisk marks the spot where Robert Goddard launched the world's first liquid-fueled rocket on March 16, 1926. At the time no one paid much attention, and the spot was an empty field on the farm of Goddard's Aunt Effie. It's still in an empty field, kind of, but now the field has been reworked into the town's public golf course. There are no gates or barriers, and although the monument stands in the middle of the course, on the ninth fairway, it's simple to get to without disturbing golfers. Even better; go in March, and you'll probably have the place to yourself.

First Rocket Launched Here

Pakachoag Golf Course

Address:: 15 Upland St., Auburn, MA
Directions:: Pakachoag Golf Course. The golf course is on the south side of Upland St. just east of its intersection with Pakachoag St. You'll see a small red "clubhouse" next to the parking area. To its left you'll see a low rock wall. Follow that wall down the hill into the center of the golf course. The small obelisk monument is at the far end of that rock wall.
Admission:: Free

Nearby Offbeat Places

Goddard Park: Polaris Missile, Auburn, MA - 1 mi.

Grave of the Smiley Face Inventor, Worcester, MA - 2 mi.

Leprechaun Hat, Worcester, MA - 2 mi.

In the region:

Carved Paul Bunyan, Bellingham, MA - 22 mi.

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