Abilene TX has a population of people who are committed to more than just the daily grind. That commitment extends to a strong local economy built on hardworking people.
Founded in 1881 as a cattle shipping point on the Texas and Pacific Railroad, Abilene got its name from Abilene, Kansas, the endpoint of the Chisholm Trail.
History
Abilene was incorporated on March 15, 1881. The first lot sold was at the auction held at North 2nd Street and Cedar Streets. Abilene owes its start to the railroad, but it was the people of this west Texas town that set it apart.
Churches were established, schools began, and culture clubs grew. Wholesalers started to serve far-flung ranchers and merchants, and a community spirit set in.
Civic leaders pushed to diversify the economy by promoting the establishment of an Air Force base here. Their efforts paid off in 1952 when Congress approved Dyess Air Force Base. To this day, Abilene is a business-friendly city that cherishes its western heritage and embraces the future. It has a flourishing downtown cultural district, educational museums and urban parks.
Economy
Abilene’s economy is strong and diverse, with the city being the commercial, educational and health care hub of West Central Texas. Dyess Air Force Base is a major employer, as are Hendrick Health and Abilene’s Christian University. A robust agricultural sector contributes to a vibrant local economy, while numerous small businesses are supported by a pro-business environment.
The majority of Abilene’s population work in the city where they live. This is the highest rate of any locality. This is largely due to the fact that both Hardin-Simmons University and McMurry University are located in Abilene and employ many students.
Education
Abilene schools are known for being well-equipped academically and offering a wide range of extracurricular activities to students. Many public and private schools in the city are highly rated by GreatSchools.
This chart gives a general overview and comparison of the educational attainment levels in the city in relation to other areas in Texas and in the United States. This chart includes data such as the school dropout rates and the number of people with a bachelors or higher degree obtained in an academic learning environment.
Three of the city’s universities are church-related. The first of these, Simmons College (later Hardin-Simmons University) opened in 1891 followed by Abilene Christian University which began life as Childers Classical Institute and McMurry University which was established in 1923.
Arts & Culture
They quickly built churches, colleges, cultural clubs and the Abilene Symphony Orchestra. They also began building a citywide infrastructure of schools, hospitals, and other institutions.
The city is home to a vibrant downtown Cultural District. It also has three private colleges (Abilene Catholic University, McMurry College and Hardin-Simmons), an Air Force base in Dyess and many public art venues. Several historic buildings built during this era are now home to arts organizations. These include The Grace Museum and the 12th Armored Division Museum. They also house the Abilene Symphony, Cockerell Studio & Gallery, the Adamson-Spalding storybook garden, as well as the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature.
Sport
Abilene is located midway between Dallas, Texas and Lubbock. It offers a variety of fun activities. Take a tour of the local craft breweries, sample a plethora of locally made wines and shop for mesquite-grilled steak at the legendary Perini Ranch. Visit area farms to learn more about the rich West Texas heritage of farming and ranching. Shockey Stables & Vinson Ranches offers guided hunting and trail rides, while May Farm, in Hawley, has hayrides and strawberry picking, as well as a petting zoo.
Soaring melodies and heart-warming orchestral masterpieces are provided by the acclaimed Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra. Visit Abilene State Park for outdoor recreation, including a lake and fishing pond, historic swimming pool, camping, hiking, bike riding, geocaching and kayaking.