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Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More America250 250 Anniversary Play Video All Videos Resolution Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the American Declaration of Independence WHEREAS, the American Colonists were being governed by a remote Monarchy who was taxing, regulating, and bringing Troops into the Thirteen Colonies; and WHEREAS, the Colonists were being strong-armed by those British Troops and fired upon in Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775 along with other oppressive actions by the British Monarchy; and WHEREAS, the Second Continental Congress of those thirteen colonies established a Continental Army of Colonial Militias on June 14, 1775; and WHEREAS, after further conflicts with England, the thirteen British colonies bonded together to declare their Independence from the British Monarchy; and WHEREAS, on the Fourth of July in the year 1776, representatives from those thirteen British colonies signed a Declaration of Independence pledging their lives and fortunes to the cause of liberty from a Monarchy in which a complete severance of British Rule over the thirteen colonies was proclaimed which established the thirteen colonies as an independent nation; and WHEREAS, this Declaration of Independence by thirteen autonomous colonies from the greatest military nation at that time was a momentous move by underfunded, separate colonies who united in their fight for independence and to observe the rights of man “… as blessed by their Creator holding that all men are created equal and are endowed with the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness;” and WHEREAS, the Declaration of Independence has served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who cherish such God-given Rights across the globe; and WHEREAS, the thirteen British colonies were successful in their fight for liberty and freedom from a great military power which was the basis for establishing these United State of America; and WHEREAS, the 250th Anniversary of the signing of this Declaration of Independence represents a momentous occasion in the chronicles of the United States of America and of mankind throughout the World, and WHEREAS, the (Montgomery County, Texas) is a part of these United State of America; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we (Montgomery County, Texas) do hereby formally express a call for commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we earnestly encourage all citizens, organizations, schools, and political subdivisions to join in the celebratory commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from tyranny. About America250 Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Independence Our Mission and Vision America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America. About America250 America250 is a nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in commemorating the 250th anniversary of our country. This multi-year effort, from now through July 4, 2026, is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. About the commission The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to plan and orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the United States. The nonpartisan Commission, chaired by former Treasurer of the United States Rosie Rios, is working with America250.org, Inc. to engage Americans across the country in designing the largest anniversary observance in our nation’s history. About the organization The America250.org, Inc. (“A250”) is the nonprofit supporting organization to the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. A250 works collaboratively with the Commission to facilitate robust public-private partnerships that bring the vision for America250 to life. A250 senior leaders and Board of Directors oversee a dedicated staff focused on executing the Commission’s vision. Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission Preserving History for Montgomery County Texas Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " America250 Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Cemeteries and Preservation of Cemeteries of the Montgomery County Texas Region. Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Cemetery Preservation Montgomery County Cemeteries Cemeteries are among the most valuable of historic resources. They are reminders of various settlement patterns, such as villages, rural communities, urban centers, and ghost towns. Cemeteries can reveal information about historic events, religions, lifestyles, and genealogy. Names on grave markers serve as a directory of early residents and reflect the ethnic diversity and unique population of an area. Cultural influence in grave marker design, cemetery decoration, and landscaping contribute to the complete narrative of Texas history. Established in large part for the benefit of the living, cemeteries perpetuate the memories of the deceased, giving a place of character and definition. The Texas Historical Commission is aware of about 14,000 cemeteries in Texas, and this number continues to rise. These range from single, isolated, and often unmarked graves to expansive cemeteries spanning hundreds of acres and reaching up to hundreds of thousands of burials. Unfortunately, historic cemeteries do not necessarily remain permanent reminders of our heritage. Across Texas, they are threatened by development and expanding urban areas, natural forces such as weathering and uncontrolled vegetation, lack of fences to keep cattle from toppling headstones, and vandalism and theft, including removal of headstones and objects. Neglect accelerates and compounds the process. The THC’s Cemetery Preservation Program offers technical assistance to assist concerned citizens and local and regional organizations with their cemetery preservation efforts. The program administers the Historic Texas Cemetery (HTC) designation process to record and protect historic cemeteries across the state. Participation can lead to a strong and long-lasting preservation effort. The THC offers guidelines (PDF) to aid in the preservation of the state’s historic cemeteries. However, this information alone is not enough to protect them; preservation starts with you. Individuals and groups interested in saving these irreplaceable cultural resources of Texas’ heritage are the driving force in long-term preservation. What Can I Do? Preserving historic cemeteries begins with you. Cemetery preservation is community-driven and begins with grassroots efforts. It is important to educate city and county officials about cemetery preservation issues and inform state legislators of the need for stronger state laws. Elected officials are not always aware of historic preservation challenges in the community and they will welcome input. A working knowledge of federal, state, and local cemetery laws is essential, as is an effort to publicize attempts to protect and care for cemeteries when possible. Here are a few things you can do: Record unidentified and abandoned cemeteries in your area with a Notice of Existence of Cemetery form This form, filed with your county clerk’s office, will add the cemetery to the county deed records, allowing future landowners knowledge of a cemetery on their property. Record unverified in your area with a Notice of Unverified Cemetery form. This form is filed with the Texas Historical Commission and concurrently with the landowner on record. Apply for a Historic Texas Cemetery (HTC) designation. This process provides the Texas Historical Commission (THC) with additional information about the cemetery and is accompanied by detailed information including the history, a map, photographs, and historic deed records. Form a cemetery association or 501(c)(3) corporation. A cemetery association can create rules and regulations that can protect the cemetery. It can also raise tax-deductible funds to aid in cemetery maintenance, clean-up, preservation, and conservation efforts. Keep the THC informed of cemetery preservation projects taking place in the community. If you need additional help or information regarding historic cemeteries, or if you would like to talk with a staff member about the HTC designation, please contact the THC’s Cemetery Preservation Program staff at 512-463-5853, or history@thc.texas.gov . Montgomery County Marker Applications MCHC Marker Narrative Template Draft MCHC Marker Application Montgomery County Cemeteries Montgomery County Cemeteries Lat and Long Texas Atlas List of Cemeteries Conroe Community Cemetery Restoration Project Cemetery Documents Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Reports of the Montgomery County Historical Commission. Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Minutes and Reports Annual Report of the Commission 2023 Montgomery County Historical Commission Report Minutes and Reports Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Home of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More County Historical Markers Montgomery County Marker Applications MCHC Marker Narrative Template Draft MCHC Marker Application Presswood Cemetery Tucked away on this small piece of land is the final resting spot for the families of Presswood, Roberts, Shiver, and Turner, who were some of the founding families of New Caney, Texas. In 1862, Austin and Sarah Presswood settled in the area and began cattle, farming, and railroad operations. This area was initially named "Presswood" after the family until 1880s, when a post office was established and the name of "New Caney" was adopted. St. Matthew Free Mission Baptist Church In March 1889, fifteen years before Conroe was established as a town, St. Matthew Free Mission Baptist Church was organized in the Piney Woodland. Bigotry during this era forced African Americans to rely on each other for opportunities to worship and mutal support, gathering together as a congregation brought a feeling of familial closeness that had often been lost during the days of slavery. Tamina Sweet Rest Cemetery Freedmen settlements began appearing throughout Texas soon after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was publicly read in Galveston by Union General Gordan Granger on June 19, 1865. The Freedmen community of “Tamina” was founded in 1871, composed of about 3000 acres. By 1905 only 442 acres located on the east side of Hwy 75 (later Interstate 45) were occupied by the heirs and descendants of the original settlers. Sacred Heart Church The first church was a small structure on the west side of South Main Street (Chambers) at the intersection of Avenue G. The James McDade family graciously donated the land for the mission church, a plot 199’x150’ about 3 blocks from the courthouse which was “considered to be the residential district.” Bishop Nicholas A Gallagher made his first trip to Conroe and confirmed a class of only 17 and thereby dedicated the new church, St Mary’s of the Woods. Santa María del Bosque Iglesia Católica del Sagrado Corazón La primera iglesia fue una estructura pequeña en el lado oeste de South Main Street (Chambers) en la intersección de la Avenida G. La familia James McDade donó generosamente el terreno para la iglesia de la misión, un terreno de 199'x150' aproximadamente 3 cuadras del Juzgada que era "considerado como el distrito residencial." El obispo Nicholas A. Gallagher hizo su primer viaje a Conroe y confirmó una clase de solo 17 y así dedicó la nueva iglesia, Santa María del Bosque. Piney Grove Missionary in Magnolia Addison-Gandy House The Addison-Gandy House was built for John Britton Addison and his wife Martha Bowe Davis Addison around 1892. Local craftsmen Robert and John Carpenter constructed the residence out of pine and cypress timbers. Today, the facade is unchanged with its detailed Victorian gingerbread port railing. It is a one story "L" shaped cottage with a gabled roof and a front porch supported by plain square posts and decorative brackets. Read more... Algernon Texas Alexander Algernon Alexander is internationally recognized as a father of Texas Blues. Born into abject poverty on September 12, 1900 in Jewett, Leon County, Texas, Algernon was raised in Richards, Texas, by his grandmother, Sally Beavers. While working in the cotton fields and for the railroad, Alexander learned the "Blues," a new expressive style of emotional and spiritual music sung by African Americans. Alexander made over 69 recordings for Okeh and Vocalion records as "Texas" Alexander. Conroe Service League Conroe Service League began in 1955 with 12 enterprising women who made a difference in their community by forming one of the first organizations in the county to help the needy and disadvantaged children. The women were pioneers that effected change for the underserved in the community. They were instrumental in establishing the Heritage Museum. Local women have followed in their footsteps using their guiding principles and ideals to continue their legacy. Grogan-Cochran House The Grogan-Cochran house was built in 1924 by James G. Grogan, Sr., who was prominent in the lumber industry at that time. This single-story frame house was built for his family in the Texas Bungalow architectural style that was common during the early 1900's. The house was constructed with wooden shiplap walls and floors from local pine produced at the Grogan-Cochran Lumber Company sawmill. The house was originally located near downtown Conroe at 615 North Thompson. Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church Established in 1901, the Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church has served the Black community of Conroe, Texas for 120 years. Strake-Gray Oilfield House The Strake-Gray Oilfield House was purchased by George Strake, Sr. for his first oilfield superintendent in 1938. The house was originally located at 11585 Duffey Road off FM 1314. It represents the typical front gable single story bungalow-style house of the period. It is unique in that it is of portable construction, meaning it was prefabricated. It is believed that the house was ordered from a Sears and Roebuck Catalogue, shipped by rail in pieces, transported to the oilfield, Read More Sanders Cemetery Julius J. Sanders was born in Jones County, GA in 1836. He and his wife Sarah Torvah moved to Texas in 1872 after serving in the Civil War. Julius was a circuit preacher for the Methodist Church and traveled to many towns in Montgomery County preaching the gospel. In 1875, he acquired 59 acres in the W. Hillhouse Survey establishing his homestead and family cemetery. he was one of the first Methodist Ministers in Magnolia and helped build the first Methodist Church building. Shepard's Barber Shop This is the oldest barber shop in continuous use in Montgomery County. The building was known locally as the "Little Jack West Building" when constructed by Pete West about 1914. It was first used as a barber shop by Henry Williamson in about 1922 and then in 1938 by Stovall Thomas. Bob Shepard purchased the building from Waren Stubblefield in 2000. The building's exterior was restored in 2007. WA & Gertrude Dean Home The Dean family were one of the prominent mercantile and community leaders of Magnolia in the early 1900s. In 1919, W.A. (Willie) Dean constructed this house and completed it a year later in time for his wedding to Gertrude Crook. They lived in this house until Willie's death in 1963. This home is a typical one-story house popular in the early 1900s. It was constructed of pine and hardwoods milled at a Magnolia sawmill. The Dean home is an excellent example of typical 20th century small housing. County Marker Documents Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Bessie Owen Collection The Bessie Owen Collection This is a courtesy from the History Task Force who scanned the collection to find out more visit the History Task Force Currently Displaying Boxes 1-7 of 12, More Coming Soon! Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Historic Preservation Cemeteries County Markers Historic Resources Survey Historical Marker THC Historical Markers America250 CLG County Local Govt Events Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Historic Resources of Montgomery County Texas Region. Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Historic Resources Preservation Montgomery County Historic Resources To preserve historic and cultural resources, we must first know they exist. Architectural and archeological surveys identify significant properties in neighborhoods, communities, and entire counties. Published inventories of such sites can be indispensable in raising a community's awareness of its cultural heritage and in its planning efforts. The most important resources identified through surveys have the potential for state and national landmark designation. Moreover, the information and photographs generated by a survey create an irreplaceable record of the present state of that heritage. Preservation Resources Nr_Survey_NrSurv79-DCF MCHC Resource Tracking Log Tx Preservation Handbook_10 National Preservation Act Application for Funding Reimbursement Procedures (Jan 2022) Preservation Projects and Grants Projects 2020 Preservation Projects 2019 Preservation Projects 2018 Preservation Projects Grants 2020 Historic Preservation Grants 2019 Historic Preservation Grants 2018 Historic Preservation Grants Historical Resource Documents Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Education Education Education and Local History for Texas History Standards working with Educators across the county. Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.

Members of the Montgomery County Historical Commission. Montgomery County Historical Commission " Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag " Home About Events Work History Gallery Contact More Members of the Commission Montgomery County Commissioners Court Mark Keough—County Judge Robert C. Walker—Commissioner, Precinct 1 Charlie Riley—Commissioner, Precinct 2 Ritch Wheeler—Commissioner, Precinct 3 Matt Gray—Commissioner, Precinct 4 ByLaws Application for Appointment Historical Commission Committees Research and Historical Marker Committee Historical Cemetery Committee Communications Website and Social Media Committee Endangered Buildings Committee Grants-Budget Committee Youth Advisory Board Committee History Road Rally Executive Committee CLG Committee 250th Anniversary Committee Website-Social Media Committee Historical Commission Bartholet, Robin Beard, Kirsten Fitzner Beaven, Brenda Blanks, Jennifer PhD Canada, Mark Carrel, Jack Carroll, Carolyn A. Crowl, Chad DeYang, Aaron Dominey, Barkley Foerster, Larry (Chairman) Hersom, Frank Hersom, Merlynn Hignett, Kimberly Johnson, Frank M. Jordan, Maria Banos Kerr, Annette Knauer, Brittany Wallace Londeen, Ryan Meador, Ann Montgomery, Joy Montgomery, Robin Muir, Steven Politte, Laura Rapoza, Andrew Ringo, Missy Saikowski, Ron Sargent, Bernie Searle, Kameron K. Shepeard, Anna Sisson, Zach Smythe, Beverly Spencer, Gertie Uher, Victor Wilkerson, T. J. Williams, Deborah H. Wise, Olivia "Dell" County Historical Commission Appointee Orientation Course Link Recommended Criteria for CHC Appointees 2025-2026 term of service Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 318, enables county commissioners courts to appoint individuals to serve on county historical commissions (CHC). Visit the following webpage to reference a record copy of these statutes: www.statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/LG/htm/LG.318.htm. In addition to these statutory criteria, the Commission offers some practical criteria below for your consideration during the appointment process. Statutory Requirements for CHC Composition Section 318.003, Texas Local Government Code, spells out the statutory criteria for CHC membership: Each CHC must be composed of at least 7 county residents; statutes do not include a maximum number of appointees. CHC appointees serve a two-year term, ideally beginning in January of odd-numbered years. CHC appointees must broadly represent the characteristics of the entire county’s general population. CHC appointees must have an interest in historic preservation and an understanding of local history and resources. Appointment Methodology Statutes do not address the exact methodology for appointing CHCs. Our research shows that this process varies somewhat from county to county. Some county officials interview individuals seeking the appointment and others accept recommendations from existing CHC appointees. Whatever method your county selects, please consider the following recommendations prior to appointment. Applying statutory criteria along with our recommended criteria ensures that appointees are active, work well with others, and leave a positive impression with the public. Lubbock CHC unveils the Willie Lusk Historical Marker Recommended Appointee Criteria Please appoint individuals who can contribute in a variety of ways. If possible, appoint individuals who have Internet access (home, CHC office, or public hub), can leave home to perform site visits, and will maintain a positive attitude. Appointees should be able to meet the following recommended criteria. Able and committed to attend full commission meetings; statutes require at least 4 meetings per year. Able and willing to volunteer time to plan and manage projects, programs, and events. Able to receive/respond to public inquiries about county historic resources in a timely manner. Able and willing to attend preservation education opportunities outside of their county. Able to provide site visits to historic properties within the county to update property inventories and provide current information on site conditions to THC staff. Montgomery County Historical Commission c/o Larry L. Foerster, Chair 2411 Ellis Park Lane Conroe, Texas 77304 Cell: 936-537-9070 foerster@dfcllp.com Purpose and Mission To discover, circulate information pertinent to the historical identity of Montgomery County. To cooperate with other organizations in preserving the history and heritage of Texas.