Abilene was incorporated on March 15, 1881. It is a city in Taylor and Jones Counties in Texas. Abilene is located off Interstate 20, between exits 279 on its western edge and 292 on the east. It is 150 miles west of Fort Worth.
The economy in Abilene, named after Abilene, Kansas, was originally based on the livestock and agricultural sectors, but is now based strongly on government, education, healthcare, manufacturing, services and retail sales.
On June 17, 2017, Abilene elected its first African American mayor, Anthony Williams. The city has established incentives to bring new businesses to the area, including job training grants, relocation grants, and more.
The Abilene Zoo is a popular attraction in Abilene, boasting several hundred animals of various species. It hosts educational and summer programs, as well as special events throughout the year.