Montgomery, IL: Our History with Ron Westphal Chevy
We've had a long and wonderful history with Montgomery, IL. We've been a part of the community for many years, and we've watched it grow and change in amazing ways.
Back in the day, we could always count on a steady stream of business from the Caterpillar tractor company. We're so grateful for their loyalty and business over the years.
Now, it's truly a sight to behold how Montgomery is flourishing with growth! The arrival of Sam's Club right across the street has brought in an incredible amount of traffic, and we're delighted to see so many new faces every day. Cooper's Hawk, our one of our go-to spots for a delicious lunch or dinner, is now just across the street. The entire area is buzzing with new businesses and restaurants, and we're filled with excitement to be a part of this vibrant community development.
In 1835, Daniel S. Gray, a New York native, was captivated by the area where his brother had settled. By 1836, he'd moved his family and built the very first frame house in what would become Montgomery. He was a man of big ideas and wasted no time, quickly setting up a store, two foundries, a reaper factory, and a stone grist mill. Originally, the settlement was even called "Graystown," but Daniel convinced everyone to name it "Montgomery" after his home county in New York. He laid out the first town lots in 1853, and though he passed away in 1855, his family continued his legacy, selling the land and helping the town grow. Finally, in 1858, the Village of Montgomery officially incorporated, and his son, Ralph Gray, was elected the very first Village President.