SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — Metal awnings are being installed on San Angelo’s historic Cactus Hotel, replacing the striped fabric awnings that were once a hallmark of the building.

Awnings have been a source of shelter from the elements since the 1600s, when they were used in bazaars to protect perishables from the sweltering sun. By the mid-19th century, canvas awnings began ...