Conroe Chamber Wins 13th History Road Trip Challenge

**Conroe Chamber Team Captures Top Prize at History Road Trip Challenge, Museum Gears Up for Texas Heritage Festival**

The Conroe Chamber of Commerce team demonstrated their expertise in local history this past Saturday, February 17, snagging the first-place trophy at the 13th Annual History Road Trip Challenge hosted by the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County. The winning trio, made up of Daniel Z. Saenz, Sarah Raz, and Amanda Hernandez, successfully navigated a challenging scavenger hunt across various historical landmarks throughout Montgomery County, earning them the coveted top honors.

“We had an incredible time exploring Montgomery County’s history,” said Daniel Saenz, a member of the winning Conroe Chamber team. “It was a fantastic way to learn more about where we live, and it’s even better knowing our participation supports such an important local institution like the Heritage Museum.”

The popular annual event serves a dual purpose: to immerse participants in the rich tapestry of Montgomery County’s past and to raise vital funds for the Heritage Museum’s ongoing operations and educational initiatives. Seven teams embarked on the historical trek, deciphering clues that led them to significant sites. These included the solemn Montgomery County War Memorial Park, the expansive Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park, and the historic Independence Plaza in Montgomery. Participants solved puzzles and completed tasks at each location, deepening their understanding of the area’s heritage.

“The History Road Trip Challenge is always a highlight, bringing history to life in an engaging way for our community,” said Sarah Woods, Director of the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County. “We’re thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm shown by all the teams, especially our winners from the Conroe Chamber and the dedicated students from Lone Star College. The funds raised are crucial for maintaining our exhibits, supporting archival work, and continuing our educational outreach programs.”

Noteworthy contenders included a team of history students from Lone Star College-Montgomery, who secured an impressive second-place finish, showcasing the next generation’s interest in local history. Museum board member Sally H. O’Sullivan also participated, highlighting the deep community involvement and passion for the museum’s mission.

The Heritage Museum of Montgomery County, a cornerstone of local preservation, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the history of Montgomery County. Founded to ensure the stories of the past are accessible to future generations, the museum relies on events like the History Road Trip Challenge to fund its exhibits, archival work, and public programs. These funds directly support the museum’s ability to offer free educational resources and maintain its historical collections for residents and visitors alike.

The museum is now turning its attention to its next major community gathering: the Texas Heritage Festival. This celebration of Texas culture and history is scheduled for Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held on the museum grounds at 1506 I-45 North in Conroe, within Candy Cane Park, the festival promises a family-friendly afternoon filled with historical re-enactments, live music, craft demonstrations, and local food vendors. It offers an opportunity for residents to experience the diverse heritage that shaped Texas, providing engaging activities for all ages.

For more information on the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County, upcoming events, or to make a donation, visit their website at www.heritagemuseum.us or follow them on social media. The museum encourages everyone to mark their calendars for the Texas Heritage Festival and continue supporting local history.