The Richard Williams Cemetery
Historical marker location:Born in Georgia in 1808, Richard Williams moved to Texas in 1834. He fought in several battles of the Texas revolution, including the "Grass Fight" (Nov. 26, 1835), where he was wounded, and San Jacinto (April 21, 1836). Wed to Mary Miller in 1836, he built a cabin near this site on land granted to him for service in the revolution. Besides farming, he operated at various times a sawmill, gristmill, and cotton gin. Williams joined the 1842 Somervell Expedition but became ill and left before the force reached Mexico. In 1852 he was elected a Montgomery County Commissioner.
Originally this one-half acre site was set aside for family burials, but it was later used by the people of the community. The oldest grave is that of Leila Jacinto Williams, the third of the Williamses' ten children, who died on March 8, 1842. Other early graves include that of a son, Sam Houston Williams, who died in 1852. Richard Williams was buried here on Oct. 10, 1876, and his wife on Nov. 9, 1894. A fenced portion of the cemetery contains graves of the Carroll family. The Williams' section was neglected until recently when the Montgomery County Historical Survey Committee fenced it. About 70 unmarked graves are located in unfenced areas of the cemetery
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.
Texas has yet to learn submission to any oppression, come from what source it may.
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.
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