Founded before 1840 as trade center, rich plantation area. Many prominent families had Texas beginnings here. At peak, town had 15 businesses, several churches, good schools; refusing right-of-way to Houston & Great Northern Railway in 1870s, lost . . . — — Map (db m155630) HM
Following the Civil War, area farmers found the climate and soil conditions of Montgomery County were ideal for the production of tobacco. The varieties grown here were of the highest quality, winning international awards in Chicago and Paris. At . . . — — Map (db m127478) HM
Organized in 1867 as the Thomas Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church, South, this congregation is the oldest in Willis and pre-dates the founding of the community. Worship services were held in log and frame buildings and brush arbors before this . . . — — Map (db m232033) HM
Founded in 1870. Named for P. J. and R. S. Willis (large land and timber owners who formerly were merchants in area). They gave townsite, on the Houston & Great Northern Railroad. With the line came prosperity, and in 1874 Willis and Montgomery . . . — — Map (db m127477) HM
Founded 1888, when coeducation was rare. Willis citizens raised funds for 2 1/2 - story building put up by contractor Sidney L. Inglet.
Taxes funded three of the six months of school; monthly tuition for rest of year ranged from $1.50 (first . . . — — Map (db m232039) HM
Worshipped in school until this building was erected under pastors G.S. Sandel, J.M. Pugh, 1877-1879. Pioneer citizen, Capt. T.W. Smith gave bell for steeple. Pews and chancel rail made by cabinetmaker E.A. Anderson. Recorded Texas Historic . . . — — Map (db m232036) HM
