Programs and Events
The Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society offers programs and events designed to educate, inspire, and support those interested in genealogy and local history. Through lectures, workshops, meetings, and special presentations, we provide opportunities to learn, connect, and engage with Montgomery County’s past.
Educational Programs
Our educational programs feature speakers and topics focused on genealogical research methods, historical interpretation, preservation, and Montgomery County history. Programs are designed to serve a wide range of experience levels, from beginners to advanced researchers.
Programs may include:
-
Guest lectures and presentations
-
Research workshops and skill-building sessions
-
Society meetings with educational components
-
Special topic programs related to local and regional history
Upcoming Events
April General Meeting
​
04/11/26 - 10:00–11:30AM CST (9:30AM for socializing) - Genealogy & Preservation Center at the Conroe Library, 104 I-45 North, Conroe, TX
​
Topic: Preserving the Fabric of Your Family History
Speaker: Dr. Jan Kimmons
​
Join us at our next meeting for a special presentation by Dr. Jan Kimmons, retired professor of fashion merchandising and textile history, on how to care for and preserve textile-based family heirlooms. Whether you have a quilt, military uniform, christening gown, wedding dress, or a well‑loved suit tucked away, you’ll learn practical, research‑based techniques to help these treasures last for generations.
​
Our speaker will walk us through:
-
What the different fibers are, how they age, and why that matters
-
Safe cleaning and handling tips
-
Smart storage strategies
-
What you can do at home, and when to call a professional conservator
Bring your questions (and your textile heirlooms if you wish)!
May General Meeting
​
05/09/26 - 10:00–11:30AM CST (9:30AM for socializing) - Genealogy & Preservation Center at the Conroe Library, 104 I-45 North, Conroe, TX
​
Topic: Bring a Dish From Your Family's Heritage
​
At our last meeting before we break for the summer, we’re celebrating the foods that tell our family stories. Members are invited to bring a dish that reflects your country of origin or regional roots, whether that’s Germany, Mexico, Scotland, Louisiana, Appalachia, the Midwest, or anywhere your people have called home.
Share the recipe, the memory behind it, or simply the flavors that remind you of where your family began. And if cooking isn’t your thing or you prefer not to bring food, no worries at all! Your presence is the most important part.
Stars, Stripes, and Family Trees Festival
​
05/16/26 - 10:00–3:00PM CST - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2495 Ed Kharbat Drive, Conroe, TX
​​​
Join us for a special genealogy festival as we celebrate two historic milestones–the 50th birthday of the Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society and the 250th birthday of the United States of America.
​
Attendees will enjoy:
-
Guest Speakers
-
DNA and Family History Resources
-
Vendors and Organizations
-
Genealogy Research Assistance
-
Children's Activities
-
Door Prizes and Giveaways
​
Admission and parking are free. We hope to see you there to celebrate these important milestones and make connections with others interested in genealogy and local history.



Past Events
March General Meeting
​
03/14/26 - 10:00–11:30AM CST (9:30AM for socializing) - Genealogy & Preservation Center at the Conroe Library, 104 I-45 North, Conroe, TX
​
Topic: What’s In Your Family Time Capsule?
Speaker: Dr. Traci Austin
​
This is a hands‑on program about the stories in everyday family objects. We’ll talk about how items like recipe cards, tools, letters, and photos can help preserve your family’s memories for future generations. Family Time Capsule Cards for recording an item’s stories and information will be handed out.
​
What to bring if you’d like to share:
-
A small object that holds a family memory (or just come with one in mind).
-
A short story about who it belonged to and why it matters to you.
​
Board members will also share information about the upcoming Genealogical Festival on May 16.

Texas Independence Day 190th Anniversary Celebration
​
02/28/26 - 10:00AM–6:00PM CST - Washington-on-the-Brazos
SHS 23400 Park Road 12, Washington, TX, United States, Texas 77880
​
The Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society is excited to participate in the annual Texas Independence Day Celebration at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site — the place “Where Texas Became Texas.”
​
This year marks 190 years of Texas Independence, and the celebration returns after two years of major renovations to this historic site. The day begins with the opening ceremony and parade at 10:30 a.m., followed by live performances at the Amphitheater and Barrington Living History Farm throughout the day. Visitors can explore demonstrations and interactive experiences at the Washington Townsite Experience, watch scenes from the Convention of 1836, and tour the newly updated exhibits at the Star of the Republic Museum — including a special display featuring the Ark of the Covenant of the Texas Declaration of Independence, crafted from the original Independence Hall.
This event is free and open to the public, and we encourage everyone to come out and celebrate Texas history in a meaningful way.
61st Annual Go Texan Parade
​
02/21/26 - 1:00–3:00PM - Downtown Conroe
​
The Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society is proud to participate in the 61st Annual Go Texan Parade in Downtown Conroe. Hosted by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, this beloved community tradition celebrates Texas heritage, western spirit, and local pride.
Our Society will have a truck in the parade and will be handing out information about how to become a member. If you’re attending, be sure to wave and stop by to learn more about how we preserve and share the rich history of Montgomery County.
We look forward to seeing you along the parade route!
​
​

February General Meeting
​
02/12/26 - 6:30–7:45PM CST (6:00PM for socializing) - Genealogy & Preservation Center at the Conroe Library, 104 I-45 North, Conroe, TX
​
Topic: Take a Tour with Genealogy Librarian Laura Politte
Speaker: Laura Politte
​
If you haven't been to the Genealogy & Preservation Center lately, you don't know what you're missing! Laura will walk you through their refreshed spaces, upgraded technology, and expanded research collections. Stop by and see what's new–they've been busy making your genealogy experience better than ever!
​
​
![Laura headshot[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/8dc7c4_dc6b466bf276454381d9ec924dec635d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_317,h_402,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Laura%20headshot%5B1%5D.jpg)
January General Meeting
​
01/15/26 - 7–8:30PM CST (6:30PM for socializing) - 1516 Wilson Road, Conroe, TX
​
Topic: Finding the Stories Behind Found Objects: Identifying Owners of Antiques & Photographs
Speaker: Dr. Traci Austin
​
This program introduces participants to practical strategies for tracing the origins of antiques, photographs, and personal artifacts discovered in thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales. Attendees will learn how to analyze visual clues, use online databases, and tap into local historical resources to reconnect items with their original families. The session will also highlight success stories and ethical considerations when returning heirlooms to descendants. Participants will leave with a clear, step-by-step approach they can use on their next treasure-hunting adventure.
​
​

​
The Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society welcomes program ideas from our members and the community. If you have a topic, speaker, or workshop idea related to genealogy, local history, or historical preservation, we invite you to share it with us.
​
Suggested programs may include lectures, hands-on workshops, panel discussions, or special presentations that support the Society’s mission and educational goals. While not all suggestions can be accommodated, every submission is reviewed and appreciated.

