The George - Honoring Our Legacy

The land that is now The George is steeped in history, with a legacy that’s a main character in the shaping of Fort Bend County. As we develop a master-planned community where families can launch their own legacies, we strive to honor and remember what came before us.

What is the history of George Ranch?

To understand the history of The George, you have to understand George Ranch.

The story begins in 1824, before Texas was even Texas. Henry Jones, one of Stephen F. Austin’s Old 300 settlers, purchased 4,000 acres as part of the original colony. This moment marked the beginning of what would become one of the most influential legacies in Fort Bend County.

Henry’s daughter, Polly Jones Ryon, played a critical role in shaping the future of George Ranch. With sharp business instincts, she expanded the family’s land holdings and strengthened its cattle operations.

In 1875, Polly’s daughter, Susan Elizabeth “Lizzy” Davis, and her husband, John Harris Pickens Davis, helped grow the ranch to more than 67,000 acres at its peak, solidifying George Ranch as a defining presence in the region.

Who founded George Ranch, and who grew its legacy?

Henry Jones founded what would become George Ranch, but its legacy was shaped by generations of strong leaders, especially the women of the family.

Polly Ryon expanded the land and business. Lizzy Davis and John Harris Pickens Davis continued that growth. Later, Mamie George and her husband Albert P. George transformed the ranch’s legacy beyond land ownership into lasting community impact.

Together, these individuals built George Ranch into a cornerstone of Fort Bend County history.

What is the George Foundation, and why is it important?

The George Foundation was established by Mamie George and Albert P. George to ensure their wealth would continue to benefit future generations.

After oil was discovered on the property in 1923, the couple made a defining decision. With no direct heirs, they dedicated their estate to supporting the community.

Since then, The George Foundation has contributed more than $300 million to Fort Bend County, supporting education, healthcare, senior services, youth programs, parks, museums, and scholarships.

This commitment transformed George Ranch from a historic property into a lasting force for good.

What is George Ranch today?

Today, George Ranch is both a working legacy and a preserved historic site.

Through the George Ranch Historical Park, visitors can experience Texas history firsthand, exploring historic homes, ranching operations, and different eras that shaped the area.

As the story of George Ranch continued to unfold, a new chapter began. Portions of this historic land were sold to Johnson Development, who is now bringing The George to life as a new master-planned community rooted in the legacy of Fort Bend County.

Why is the community named The George?

Our name is perhaps the most obvious tribute to George Ranch and family. From the beginning, we knew calling our community The George was a must.

Some names are chosen, but this one was simply meant to be. The George is a name born from the land itself, carrying forward a legacy that continues to shape Richmond.

What does The George logo represent?

The George logo includes a capital T and G, with the G being the most prominent. The circle around the letters is the last known brand of The George Ranch.

This design connects the present-day community to its ranching heritage in a subtle but meaningful way.

What do the 5 oak trees at The George symbolize?

Five oak trees will be grouped on the island in The George where the name of the community is featured. Four of the trees will represent the matriarchs of the George family: Nancy Jones, Polly Ryon, Susan Elizabeth “Lizzy” Davis, and Mamie George. The fifth tree signifies the continued legacy at The George.

Together, these trees represent strength, growth, and the generations that shaped George Ranch, as well as those who will shape its future.

What is the story behind Treehouse Park?

One of our first planned amenities is Treehouse Park, a whimsical space reminiscent of the treehouse at The George Ranch that is built into a heritage oak in the side yard of the main historic home. The treehouse was built by A.P. George for his niece Mary Jones, who tragically died in a car accident in 1943.

Today, Treehouse Park reflects that story, creating a space rooted in memory, imagination, and connection.

How do street names reflect the history of George Ranch?

Naming some of our streets after members of the George family was an easy decision; watch for Mamie Oaks Drive and Polly Oaks Drive. Legacy Park Drive was also selected as tribute to this land’s history.

These names ensure the legacy of George Ranch remains part of everyday life within the community.

How are wildflowers connected to George Ranch?

Expect to see plenty of wildflowers at The George. 

Mamie was known for scattering wildflower seeds on her walks. We share her love of Texas wildflowers and will incorporate them into our landscape at George Ranch.

That tradition continues today, bringing beauty and meaning to the landscape in a way that honors the past.

What is Heritage Trail and how does it connect to George Ranch?

Heritage Trail winds through The George, giving residents a place to enjoy nature in a welcoming environment. The existing trail, which connects the community to The George Ranch (formerly The George Ranch Historical Park), will see several rounds of improvements as development continues. Signage along the trail will detail the history of The George Ranch as well as the family’s lasting impact in Fort Bend.

What does the future hold for The George?

And that’s just the start! We are 1,500 acres strong, and further development will continue to honor this land’s legacy with every home, every family, and every new chapter yet to be written.

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