ABILENE, Texas—Taylor County has completed the long‑awaited restoration of its 1915 historic courthouse, celebrating the project after more than 25 years of planning and collaboration with the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and local preservation leaders.
The three‑story Classical Revival courthouse—designed by architect George Burnett—was restored with support from the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP). The project team included preservation architects Architexas and general contractor Joe R. Jones Construction Inc.
Work focused on returning the building to its early‑20th‑century character while preparing it for modern public use. Restoration highlights include reconstruction of the district courtroom and the revival of original features such as scagliola columns, terrazzo flooring, and ornamental metalwork. The project also upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, improved ADA accessibility, and addressed long‑term infrastructure needs.
Planning for the courthouse’s rehabilitation began in the early 2000s, with Taylor County submitting its first master plan to the THC in 2001. The county received a major THCPP construction grant in 2020, allowing full restoration to move forward. Construction was completed in 2024, with public rededication events following.
Since its launch in 1999, the THCPP has helped fund the restoration of more than 80 historic courthouses across Texas. Taylor County’s project is the latest example of the program’s impact, ensuring the landmark will continue serving the Abilene community for generations.
