Advocacy

This list is published by the Abilene Preservation League to provide publicity for important Abilene historic sites at-risk of loss or degradation. Sites are nominated by members of the APL and must be historical and threatened by direct demolition, demolition by neglect or other threat.

1. Abilene Courts

Address: 633 South Eleventh Street

Designation: Local, National

Condition: Poor

Owner: Private

Building Type: Commercial

Year Built: 1930

Last occupied in 1989, Abilene Courts is on the historic Bankhead Highway, the nation’s first all-weather, coast-to-coast highway. A rare example of a pre-World War II motor court, this NRHP structure is unfit for habitation and has damaged walls. The city suspended condemnation, but the site is still in immediate danger of demolition or natural structural collapse.

2. Burlington Railroad Station

Address: 189 Locust Street

Designation: Local, National

Condition: Poor

Owner: Lone Star Railroad In

Building Type: Commercial

Year Built: 1929

Burlington Railroad Station expanded railroad travel to the north and south for the city. This building has been neglected for several years and is vulnerable to vandals and disrepair. Renewed interest in protecting this structure can advance preservation efforts at this site.

3. Trolley Car Barn

Address: 1021 – 1037 Clinton Street

Designation: Local, National

Condition: Fair

Owner: Private

Building Type: Commercial

Year Built: 1928

Representing Abilene’s history of transportation enterprises, the trolley system connected the far limits of town and helped Abilene establish a presence by promoting growth of the local business and professional community. The trolley car barn requires repairs and historical protection to restore it to its former glory. 

4. West Texas Utilities Power & Ice Plant

Address: 102 North Second Street

Designation: Local, National

Condition: Fair

Owner: AEP Texas North Generation Co LLC

Building Type: Industry/Processing; Electricity generating plant for most of 20th century; ice plant until 1951

Year Built: 1922