A local engineering firm is buying the original 1967 model of AstroWorld listed for sale recently on Craigslist — and plans to donate it to the Houston Public Library’s Metropolitan Research Center, so that it can be put on display in the newly expanded Julia Ideson Building. I.A. Naman + Associates president and “very regular” Swamplot reader Thomas G. Barrow says he learned about the model from our post yesterday: “My accountant happened to be walking by my office and I asked if I could have some money. He looked at the piece and said ‘That’s cool!’ and a few minutes later we did the deal.” Barrow says he’s already spoken with library officials about the installation, and that they’ve already begun looking for an interim home for the model before it goes on display to the public. Naman was the mechanical and electrical design engineer for AstroWorld, the Astrodome, and several related facilities.
- About Us [IAN+A]
- Domed Stadium Air-Conditioning Design (PDF) [IAN+A]
- Previously on Swamplot: Now on Craigslist: Original AstroWorld Model, For Sale: Early Model AstroWorld
Photos: Bill Davenport
All those things from my childhood just look so much smaller now…
Hats off to them!
Thank you Thomas Barrow! You do good work in the community. I worked at Astroworld in the late 70s and early 80s, and it still has a warm place in my heart. ~Larissa
Nothing about how much? :)
Cody, go back to yesterday’s thread where it was put on craigslist.
I love starting a long weekend with good news! :D
Good to see that this cool bit of Astroworld history will remain intact and on display. Thanks, Mr. Barrow.
There ARE still decent people in this world! I feel better already. Thanks Mr. Barrow.
Great to hear. Worked at Astroworld in mid 90’s. I enjoyed my time there. Had some good times.
Thank you, Mr. Barrow and Naman + Associates. Very classy action.