Bringing History Home: Why Montgomery’s ‘Voices from the Past’ Tour Matters to Local Families

As a long-time real estate professional in the Conroe, The Woodlands, and Montgomery area, I always tell my clients—especially first-time buyers and move-up families in the $200k-$600k range—that they aren't just buying square footage; they're buying a community with a rich history. When a town embraces and celebrates its past, it demonstrates a strong, stable foundation for the future.

That's why I'm so excited about the 6th Annual Voices from the Past Cemetery Tour presented by the fantastic Montgomery Historical Society! This event is happening on Saturday, October 18th, and it’s a perfect family outing to connect with the very roots of Montgomery County.

More Than Just a Tour: A Living History Lesson

This isn't your average historical walk. The "Voices from the Past" tour brings history to life through local actors in period costumes, who stand at the burial sites of Montgomery’s pioneers and recount their stories in the first person. It's a fun, educational, and genuinely captivating experience.

This year, the tour will visit two significant locations: the 1832 Old Methodist Churchyard Cemetery and the 1868 New Montgomery Cemetery.

Meet the Legends Behind Our Local Legacy

The stories featured in the tour are incredible and highlight the resilient, pioneering spirit that still defines Montgomery County today:

• Charles B. Stewart, Designer of the Lone Star Flag: Did you know that the man credited with designing the iconic Texas Lone Star Flag is buried right here in Montgomery? Visitors will hear the story of Dr. Stewart and his wife. He was a pivotal figure, also serving as the first Secretary of State for the Republic of Texas!
• The "Miracle of Montgomery": Prepare to hear the astounding tale of Bowe Gandy. After a hunting accident, Bowe had surgery on his mother’s kitchen table where the doctor removed bullet fragments from his intestines. He survived this remarkable operation (without modern antibiotics!) and went on to serve in WWI, living to the age of 85. Talk about Texas grit!
• Revolutionary War & Civil War Leaders: You'll also encounter the stories of figures like Owen Shannon, a Revolutionary War soldier, and Reuben Jonathan Palmer, a State Representative during the Civil War era.

Events like this are crucial because they remind us of the deep history of stability and perseverance in our area. When you choose a home in Lake Conroe, Magnolia, or Porter, you are choosing an area with stories and values that date back to the Texas Republic.

Plan Your Visit This Saturday, October 18th

• When: Saturday, October 18th, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
• Where: Tours visit the Old Methodist Churchyard Cemetery and the New Montgomery Cemetery.
• Tickets: Adults are just $10, students (15-18) are $5, and youth under 15 are free. All proceeds support the Montgomery Historical Society’s vital work in preserving our town's seven historic properties. You can purchase tickets online or on the day of the event at the Nat Hart Davis Museum (14263 Liberty Street).

This is a fantastic way to spend a fall afternoon and enrich your family's understanding of our local heritage.

Are you ready to make your own history in Conroe, Montgomery, or Willis? Understanding the local community is step one. Step two is understanding your home value in this thriving market!

Source: Meador, A. (2025, October 15). Historic Montgomery cemetery tour 'Voices from the Past' set for Saturday. Houston Chronicle. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/neighborhood/moco/events/article/historic-montgomery-cemetery-tour-voices-past-21102219.php