That Time Elvis Presley Came To Abilene And Broke Records

Before I ever called Abilene home, I knew the name Elvis Presley.

I spent much of my youth in Europe, where my father was stationed. When I came back to the United States, it seemed like everybody was falling in love with this fellow shaking his hips onstage. His voice, his moves, his personality. Elvis was a big deal.

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By the time I arrived in Abilene, I was already working in radio. At the "Top-40" rock stations where I worked before joining the stations I'm at today. I had the pleasure of playing plenty of the King of Rock and Roll’s music.

But Abilene had already experienced something I could only wish I had witnessed: Elvis himself.

The Night Elvis Came to Abilene

On Wednesday, October 9, 1974, Elvis Presley performed at the Taylor County Coliseum before a record crowd of more than 8,600 people. His appearance surpassed the venue’s previous attendance record, held by Lawrence Welk. Imagine the excitement of seeing one of the world’s biggest stars right here in Abilene!

My longtime friend Jay Moore is an educator and, in my opinion, one of America’s finest historians. I’ve known Jay for at least 45 years, even bought his uncle’s house, and we’ve shared countless conversations about Abilene’s history. A few nights ago, he emailed me about a concert here in Abilene that week, sharing one of his favorite moments from the evening.

Jay taught in the Abilene Independent School District, and to me, he’s a walking, talking encyclopedia. He’s also the founder and curator of the Stone Owl Institute, which preserves our community’s history inside the newly restored Abilene Heritage Square.

A Jumpsuit, Silk Scarves, and Screaming Fans

According to Jay’s account, Elvis wore his blue swirl jumpsuit, handed out scarves, and even leaned down to kiss one lucky admirer on the cheek.

Now there’s an Abilene memory worth telling the grandkids!

Jay also notes a hometown connection onstage: soprano Kathy Westmoreland, who had attended Abilene High School, was part of Elvis’ vocal ensemble.

For those fans, these were songs they had heard on the radio suddenly coming to life just a few feet, or a few rows away.

Elvis Returned in 1977

Elvis came back to the Taylor County Coliseum on March 27, 1977. A contemporary newspaper review estimated approximately 7,500 fans attended and described a performance featuring 22 songs in 75 minutes. He finished with “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

As Jay reminds us, Elvis died less than five months later, making that return visit especially meaningful.

Were You There? Take a Look at These Photos

The photos below offer a glimpse of Elvis’ 1974 visit, more than half a century ago.

Were you in the crowd? Did someone in your family go? Take a look and see what memories come back. I’d love to hear your story.

Special thanks to Abilene historian and my longtime friend Jay Moore for sharing his account and helping preserve these memories.

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