history
The Texas Theater is a historic downtown building with long-standing significance in Hillsboro. For years, it has been a part of the community's identity, even as the building itself has stood vacant.
Today, the project is focused on bringing the theater back into active use through a practical, phased, community-driven approach.
a century on the square
The timeline below traces the Texas Theater’s history on the downtown square, from its early years through periods of change and into its current phase.
Late 20th - Early 21st Century
Underutilization
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Building remained largely underused
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Deferred maintenance and aging systems impacted usability
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Continued to stand as a recognizable downtown landmark despite limited activity
2025
Due Diligence and Assessment
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City secured access for evaluation
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Structural and building condition assessments conducted
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Feasibility of phased reactivation explored
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City Council approves trade for building
2026
Project Launch
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Texas Theater project formally initiated
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Community engagement, volunteer efforts, and fundraising begin
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Planning for phased activation underway
Looking Ahead
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Incremental improvements to stabilize and activate the building
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Expansion of programming over time
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Long-term goal of reestablishing the theater as a center of arts, entertainment, and community events.
Early 20th Century
Construction & Opening
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The Texas Theater was constructed during a period of growth in downtown Hillsboro
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Opened as a movie theater serving the local community
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Became a central gathering place for entertainment and social activity
Mid 20th Century
Peak Use
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Operated as a primary cinema for Hillsboro residents
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Hosted regular film screenings and community outings
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Played a key role in downtown foot traffic and evening activity
Late 20th Century
Transition
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Theater operations declined as entertainment patterns shifted
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Building changed ownership and/or use over time
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Periods of vacancy or limited use