New Caney was established in 1862 under the name Presswood, named for pioneers Austin and Sarah Waters Presswood.[3] Captain John Robertson and other settlers followed, and cattle ranches, mills, and stores were opened along Caney Creek.[4] In 1877, the town received a railroad from the East and West Texas Railway, and Caney Station became a shipping point for imports and exports, bringing more business to the area.[3] In 1882, Presswood received its first post office, registered under the name New Caney, as the name Caney already was in use by another Texas town.[3] This development led to the name of Presswood falling out of use, as New Caney became the preferred term.
In 1884, the population of New Caney was sixty people.[3] By 1892, it had grown to 150 residents and was able to support several general stores.[3] Throughout the 20th century, the community continued to expand.
Government and infrastructure
The New Caney area is administered by Montgomery County Commissioner, Precinct 4. The current County Commissioner is James Metts.[5]
The USPS New Caney Post Office is located at 20811 U.S. Highway 59 (which is now Interstate 69) and the ZIP code is 77357.[7]
New Caney's Fire and EMS protection is provided by a joint effort of the East Montgomery County Fire Department ESD#7[8] and the Montgomery County Hospital District (MCHD).[9]
The New Caney Independent School District area joined the North Harris Montgomery Community College District, now Lone Star College, area in 1981.[11] The Texas Legislature designated New Caney ISD as part of Lone Star.[12]
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, New Caney has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.[16]