Last Monday Abilene suffered a terrible loss… known as the Matera Paper Building, the majestic structure at 101 Oak Street burned and was declared a total loss.

On Saturday, February 25th, working with the  building owners, we will start the cleanup process by having the first Bricks for Bucks day. Starting around 9:00 a.m. and ending at 3:30 p.m., the Abilene Preservation League will be on site to let Abilenians pick up bricks and help the cleanup process by clearing the sidewalks.

This is a fundraiser for the Abilene Preservation League and Love and Care Ministries, so we will be asking for a donation if you would like a brick or several. A suggested amount is $2.00 per brick, but if you would like to give more, or less, that is OK. The older part of the building is made out of what we think is Thurber brick, made in the famous ghost town along I-20. The “addition” made in 1917 was made out of brand-new Abilene brick, known as “Abilene Common,” and is stamped with our city’s name.

We would like to enroll all people who donate as supporters of the APL so we will be asking for your email address and you will receive a complimentary one year membership in the APL.

If you have in mind a patio or a driveway, needing hundreds or even thousands of bricks, there are plenty. But we may not be able to fulfill your order in one day! Volunteers  will be on site to take your request down and we will be back in touch with you within the next week.

What is the intended purpose of the funds raised? Well, for one we need to provide better security lighting at some of our historic structures, which would help deter additional losses of buildings. As a donor, you will also be benefiting Love and Care Ministries, which has a 17 year history of great work helping Abilenians all economic circumstances.

Additional information will be posted here as it becomes available. We thank you for your interest in this project!