Abilene

Abilene is a city in Taylor County and Jones County, in the state of Texas, United States. It is the principal city of the Abilene metropolitan area, which includes all of Taylor and Jones counties. Abilene is located approximately 150 miles west of Fort Worth.

History

Abilene was established in 1881 by the Texas and Pacific Railway as a stock shipping point. The city was named after Abilene, Kansas, which was a major cattle shipping center. The town grew rapidly and was incorporated in 1883. Abilene became a significant center for the cattle industry and later diversified into other areas such as oil, agriculture, and education.

Geography

Abilene is situated in West Texas, characterized by its flat to gently rolling terrain. The city covers a total area of 112.2 square miles, of which 106.8 square miles is land and 5.4 square miles is water.

Climate

Abilene has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Abilene had a population of approximately 125,000 residents. The city has a diverse population with a mix of ethnic and racial groups.

Economy

The economy of Abilene is diverse, with significant contributions from education, healthcare, manufacturing, and the military. The city is home to Dyess Air Force Base, which is a major employer in the area. Other key sectors include retail, agriculture, and oil production.

Education

Abilene is served by several school districts, including the Abilene Independent School District and the Wylie Independent School District. Higher education institutions in the city include Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University.

Healthcare

Abilene has a number of healthcare facilities, including Hendrick Health System and Abilene Regional Medical Center. These institutions provide a wide range of medical services to the residents of Abilene and the surrounding areas.

Culture and Recreation

Abilene offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The city is home to the Grace Museum, the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature, and the Paramount Theatre. Abilene also has numerous parks, including Abilene State Park and Redbud Park.

Transportation

Abilene is served by several major highways, including Interstate 20, U.S. Route 83, and U.S. Route 84. The city also has a regional airport, Abilene Regional Airport, which provides commercial flights to major cities.

Notable People

• Jessica Simpson, singer and actress
• Randall "Tex" Cobb, actor and former professional boxer
• Fess Parker, actor and businessman

Related Pages

• Abilene Christian University
• Dyess Air Force Base
• Hendrick Health System
• Abilene Independent School District
• Hardin-Simmons University
• McMurry University