Abilene, Texas

Fort Phantom Hill

Established 1851 to protect frontier from Indians, the post suffered a series of hardships; was abandoned in 1854. Historians say desertions were frequent due to monotony and loneliness. The fort burned shortly after abandonment;

Parks

31

Dyess Air Force Base

Home of Air Combat Command's historic 7th Wing. Currently flies B-1B Lancers and C-130H Hercules. The base's Linear Air Park contains 30 aircraft from World War II to the present. Aircraft are displayed along Arnold Blvd., a main base thoroughfare.

Abilene Zoo

One of five largest in state; animals displayed in modern areas simulating natural habitat. Discovery Center is a "zoo within a zoo," housing comparative habitat displays of invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals from the Southwestern U.S. and Africa.

Center for Contemporary Arts