Helium Plant Amarillo Texas Abandoned Sign All Copper Stolen Keep Out DSC_1418x, originally uploaded by David Kozlowski.
95% of the world's helium is produced within a 250-mile radius of the city of Amarillo, Texas.
According to barrypopik.com, "...A helium-extraction plant became operational near Amarillo in April 1929. The city was once the self-proclaimed “Helium Capital of the World” for having one of the country’s most productive helium fields.
Amarillo operates one of the largest meat packing areas in the United States. Pantex, the only nuclear weapons assembly and dis-assembly facility in the country, is also a major employer. The attractions Cadillac Ranch and Big Texan Steak Ranch were located on the former U.S. Route 66, which passes through the city.