Abilene, Texas, was laid out in 1881 by cattlemen as a stock-shipping point along the newly built Texas and Pacific Railway. Officially incorporated in 1883, the city became the original endpoint of the famed Chisholm Trail and a final stop for drovers moving millions of cattle northward.
Over time, Abilene evolved into a regional center rooted in Western industries: cattle, oil, and railroads helped shape its early character. In 1966, the Abilene Zoo, located near Abilene Regional Airport, added new cultural and recreational appeal for residents and visitors alike. The following year, a landmark bond election funded construction of the Abilene Civic Center and the Taylor County Coliseum, along with substantial upgrades to the airport, marking a significant investment in civic infrastructure.
Today, Abilene remains a city of dynamic growth and civic pride. As of 2025, the city is led by Mayor Weldon W. Hurt, along with council members Shane Price, Lynn Beard, Blaise Regan, Brian Yates, Miguel Espinoza, and Travis Craver, who together guide the city’s legislative and policy-making direction. The current City Manager, the chief executive overseeing day-to-day operations, is Emily Crawford, appointed in June 2025.
As Abilene continues embracing its Western heritage while investing in modern infrastructure, the city stands poised for continued prosperity and growth, offering residents a quality of life rooted in history, progress, and civic leadership.
