George Bell Madeley Cemetery
Born at Trittiford in Hall Green, near Birmingham, England, in 1815, George Bell Madeley emigrated to Texas about 1845. In Harrisburg he met and wed Helen Adeline Grant (b. 1821), a native of Yardley, England. The following year they established their home in this area, then known as Egypt community.
Madeley became a successful planter and his Egypt farm was a model of self-sufficiency. The enterprise included orchards, a cotton gin, a grist mill, vineyards, a sugar mill, and cattle, in addition to his cultivated lands of cotton and sugar cane.
This cemetery, located on the Madeley farm, began in 1848 with the interment of Madeley's brother-in-law, John Hurley. Also an Englishman, Hurley was the husband of Helen Madeley's sister, Teresa. George Bell Madeley died in 1879 and was buried here, as was his wife, who died in 1897. Other burials include those of family members and friends. Three of the Madeleys' sons are among the interments.
Maintained by family descendants, the cemetery is an important reminder of a successful early planter family. It also reflects the influences of European immigration on the development of the state
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for trade. The region's first settlement, Montgomery, was established in 1822 and quickly became a center for the burgeoning lumber industry. The town was named after the commander of the Battle of the Alamo, General Richard Montgomery.
The growth of Montgomery County continued throughout the 19th century as more settlers arrived and industries such as agriculture and oil production developed. The discovery of oil in 1931 in the nearby East Texas Oil Field brought economic prosperity to the county, attracting new businesses and residents. The booming oil industry fueled development and expansion, transforming the area into a thriving community.
In recent decades, Montgomery County has experienced rapid population growth and suburbanization. The county's proximity to Houston, combined with its natural beauty and amenities, has attracted many families and businesses. Today, Montgomery County is known for its diverse economy, including sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. The county also offers a high quality of life with its excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community.
Montgomery County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Montgomery County, Texas.
- 1837 - Montgomery County was established on December 14, 1837.
- 1838 - The town of Montgomery was chosen as the county seat.
- 1842 - The first county courthouse was built in Montgomery.
- 1850 - The population of the county was 2,253.
- 1870 - The county seat was moved from Montgomery to Conroe.
- 1889 - The first railroad, International and Great Northern, arrived in the county.
- 1936 - Lake Conroe was constructed as a water supply reservoir.
- 1970 - The population of the county exceeded 100,000.
- 1981 - The Woodlands, a master-planned community, was founded.
- 2001 - Montgomery County suffered significant damage from Tropical Storm Allison.
- 2018 - The population of the county reached over 590,000.