The Railroad in Montgomery
Historical marker location:Problems with transporting farm crops to market, along with the growing importance of rail transportation were major factors that prompted area businessmen to organize the Central and Montgomery (C & M) Railroad in 1877. Completed by 1880, the C & M consisted of a 25-mile track connecting Montgomery with the Houston & Texas Central Railroad at Navasota.
A combined passenger and freight station constructed near this site was often the center of social activity. After the county seat was moved from Montgomery in 1889, a small jail, moved to the railroad yard, held prisoners awaiting transportation.
In 1882 the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railroad purchased the C & M, thus acquiring access to the prized timber trade of East Texas. By extending the rails east and west, this line became the Beaumont-Somerville Branch of the Santa Fe. The eastern extension joined the original C & M line a mile west of town at a point that became known as "The Junction." Travel delays resulted from trains backing to or from the depot to the main line.
Passenger service was discontinued in 1951. Later, the mile of railroad track from "The Junction: to the depot in Montgomery was removed
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.