Oklahoma School
Historical marker location:Early residents of what would become the Oklahoma settlement moved into the area in the middle to late 19th century. Families farmed, raised livestock and used the rail station at nearby Hufsmith for shipment of local products.
Because early settlers were interested in the education of their children, they built the first Oklahoma Community School by 1880 with a $300 donation and property from the G.V. Leslie family, adjacent to what would become the Oklahoma Cemetery. This one-room building was used as a school and church house. In July 1923, residents constructed a two-room school building on two acres purchased from John and Ida Hirsch for $90. It burned in 1930, and later that year, the Montgomery County School District erected another two-room schoolhouse in its place, with A.l. Standard as contractor. Students held box suppers to raise money for playground and sports equipment.
Beginning in 1936, students in the seventh grade and higher attended school in Tomball, and in 1944, all students transferred to Magnolia Schools. The schoolhouse never reopened, serving instead as a community center and election polling place.
Today, the Oklahoma School remains a focal point for the area, serving as an important reminder of the early education efforts of the community's pioneer farm families. As the area's population continues to grow as a result of its proximity to an expanding urban center, the historic schoolhouse reflects community pride, identity and heritage.
(2003)
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
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.