Local Abi

Local Abi Every story you hear is a story worth being told. Join us in telling the story of the local Abilene

Sockdolager Brewery didn’t begin in the spectacular building it’s currently occupying in the SoDa District. It didn’t ev...
03/03/2021

Sockdolager Brewery didn’t begin in the spectacular building it’s currently occupying in the SoDa District. It didn’t even begin at its much smaller location on China Street. Sockdolager began in a garage as three friends experimented with brewing beer.
Even though the business has grown, Sockdolager maintains the same quality from its humble beginnings. And with its expansion, the brewery can provide a spacious indoor and outdoor experience that invites the community to gather.
To co-owner James Bridwell, choosing the local option is a monumental aspect of what it means to live and contribute to the community of Abilene.

Next time you’re thinking about a purchase — whether it be food, drinks, clothes, or a service — consider the men and wo...
03/01/2021

Next time you’re thinking about a purchase — whether it be food, drinks, clothes, or a service — consider the men and women that have taken a personal stake in bringing value to the Abilene community. Then consider buying local as a token of support and appreciation!

Local Abi tells the story of the Abilene community by highlighting the people that are leading the revival.

Join the movement. Tag your favorite local business!

Kingslee Allen has always been inspired by the classic barbershop atmosphere. When she couldn’t find a barbershop that s...
02/14/2021

Kingslee Allen has always been inspired by the classic barbershop atmosphere. When she couldn’t find a barbershop that suit her taste, her entrepreneurial spirit brought about The Kings Barbers. Kingslee has raised the bar – elevating the entire barbershop experience in Abilene.
Kingslee had the talent, desire, and vision for her barbershop, and in December of 2016, she had the opportunity to open her shop next door to . The synergy between the businesses are what make this experience so unique. It is a place where gentlemen can enjoy an expert haircut , browse lifestyle goods , and soon enjoy a beer . The corner of N 2nd and Walnut St. is a one-stop-shop destination.

The Windsor Hotel has a rich history and a bright future. The hotel was originally built in 1927 and leased by Conrad Hi...
02/05/2021

The Windsor Hotel has a rich history and a bright future. The hotel was originally built in 1927 and leased by Conrad Hilton as the second building to ever bear the Hilton name. During this time, it was a coveted destination for high society.
The Windsor is now being renovated to its former glory. The open lobby with natural light flooding in from the ceiling and the immaculate ballroom on the second floor have always significantly contributed to the space. Now, they are now being maximized in a contemporary fashion. The ballroom has maintained its elegance, but has been transformed into a luxury gym. Modern furniture has created vignettes in the lobby accented by lush greenery designed for community. Surrounding the lobby, you will find more amenities and retail spaces such as and .abi. Looking forward, The Windsor will serve as an anchor for a lively downtown scene and a staple of the Abilene experience.

KAO is OAK spelled backwards. Have you been to the KAO Lounge behind Oak Street Arbor? •This addition to the SoDa distri...
01/18/2021

KAO is OAK spelled backwards. Have you been to the KAO Lounge behind Oak Street Arbor?

This addition to the SoDa district is the long-time dream of Colby Marcee. Colby approached Tim Smith about opening a bar together, but Tim was skeptical — “I want to drink at bars, not own one.” But over time, Colby’s work ethic and passion could not be ignored. And so it began.

Despite the challenges of 2020, KAO Lounge opened and has experienced remarkable success. KAO Lounge reflects the revitalization that has taken place in the entire SoDa District — against all odds, the community prevails. Each component of the SoDa district contributes to the whole. As you can see, KAO Lounge is one immaculate puzzle piece.

Owner of Lone Star Dry Goods and advocate for downtown synergy, Ted Evans believes that variety cultivates community. Wh...
01/14/2021

Owner of Lone Star Dry Goods and advocate for downtown synergy, Ted Evans believes that variety cultivates community.

When you walk through the front door of Lone Star Dry Goods, you enter into an experience that you’ll never get shopping online. If you are a local to Lone Star, you are greeted by name as you take in the expansive selection of lifestyle goods that reflect true American quality. It’s as if you’ve just been welcomed into Ted’s man cave. There’s no rush, you can even enjoy a cold Shiner Bock as you browse around the store.

Ted was born and raised in Abilene, returning to his roots with intent to create the spaces he would’ve liked to have seen growing up here. With a variety of coffee shops, bars, retail stores, and breweries in the downtown area, Lone Star contributes a unique offering to the experience.

Whether you’re a regular customer or a curious visitor, you will be welcomed with a smile upon entering the experience that is Lone Star Dry Goods.

At first, the elegant flower arrangements at Florence Posies are a sight to see, and the Honey + Fig gelato bar is a wel...
01/05/2021

At first, the elegant flower arrangements at Florence Posies are a sight to see, and the Honey + Fig gelato bar is a welcome addition to the downtown scene. However, after hearing Rachel and Micah Pattens’ story, those flower arrangements begin to represent life that has flourished through hardship. Then, the gelato begins to taste more authentic, and you savor every bite knowing the hands that have prepared it.

In 2017, Micah and Rachel Patten were faced with a challenge no parent should ever have to endure. Annelise and Adelaide Florence Patten were both miscarried in that year. The girls’ middle name, Florence, lives on through Florence Posies. The flower arrangements serve as a reminder of abundant life despite hardship. Now, Rachel and Micah have three sweet children: Evelynne, Scarlette, and Fletcher, as well as baby Joash on the way. Together, they continue to create a legacy of life for Annelise and Adelaide.

Just like the intention behind the namesake, Rachel has crafted a gelato that reflects her Italian heritage and integrity. After tasting gelato from Honey + Fig, icecream will pale in comparison to the flavor profiles of their high quality ingredients. What they promise in flavor, they deliver with honesty.

Stop and smell the posies. But seriously, come try the Honey + Fig gelato and help us share the Pattens’ story on your social media.

The Loft at Windsor is the long time dream of Danielle Nobles, who has always been passionate about empowering others to...
01/04/2021

The Loft at Windsor is the long time dream of Danielle Nobles, who has always been passionate about empowering others to be comfortable and confident in their style.

Combining luxury goods with local service, the personalized experience at the Loft at Windsor is unlike any other boutique Abilene has to offer. Danielle has curated a space that embodies the local hospitality that is foundational to Abilene, inviting anyone who comes in the chance to be prioritized.

The Loft’s NEW downtown location in the Windsor at 401 Pine St. has been established so that YOU can have an intentional experience Danielle believes everyone deserves.

Abandoned. Hopeless. Condemned. Those are the words that were used to describe the area south of the railroad tracks in ...
01/04/2021

Abandoned. Hopeless. Condemned. Those are the words that were used to describe the area south of the railroad tracks in downtown Abilene.
Lively. Creative. Hopeful. These are the words that describe what is now coined the SoDa District.
The heart of the revitalization, pumping life to the surrounding area, is the SoDa District Courtyard and its owner — Tim Smith. Pictured above is the abandoned warehouse that Tim transformed into what is now an immaculate courtyard for weddings, parties, and events of all kind. Oh, did we mention that he turned the front of the building into a modern living space?
You can’t miss this masterpiece on the 834 S. 3rd street. Don’t worry, once you find the courtyard, everything to explore is walking distance away!

Look how Abilene’s local artists have brought Allen Ridge to life! Get to know the artists that collaborated on this new...
01/04/2021

Look how Abilene’s local artists have brought Allen Ridge to life! Get to know the artists that collaborated on this new development.
Calina Mishay is West Texas born and raised. She is “living the dream” traveling around painting streetart murals and creative directing on citywide art projects/developments. Follow Cal on Instagram/ Facebook for updates, inquiries, and canvas pieces.
Kameron Keith Alexander is an Abilene native and self-taught studio artist and muralist who’s primary use of black and white imagery has led to a distinctive style that can be found in many homes and businesses across the big country. Follow Kam on Instagram and Facebook for updates and inquires!
Patrick Messersmith’s work combines traditional themes with modern style and vivid color palettes. He has completed multiple public and private murals here in Abilene and been featured in galleries locally and regionally. Follow Patrick on Instagram at and Facebook (Patrick Messersmith Fine Art) for updates and inquiries.

08/20/2020

Every story you hear is a story worth being told. We are telling the stories behind the people and places that make the local Abilene community so great. We appreciate your support in this journey!

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