Historical Marker

Site of Willis Cigar Factory

Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Following the Civil War, area farmers found the climate and soil conditions of Montgomery County were ideal for the production of tobacco. The varieties grown here were of the highest quality, winning international awards in Chicago and Paris. At the height of local tobacco production, there were eight cigar operations in Willis. One, the Willis Cigar Factory, was located at this site. Founded by Kentucky native Capt. Thomas Wesley Smith (1829-1901), a Civil War veteran and former sheriff, it remained in operation until the early 1900s.

Texas Sesquicentennial 1836 - 1986

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Montgomery County, located in southeast Texas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa and Bidai peoples, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the forests, rivers, and prairies.

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.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.