The Alamo 2019

On this day in 1836 a pre-dawn attack by Santa Anna's forces breached the walls of the old mission compound and the defenders inside were all killed.  Four days earlier on March 2, 1836, Texas had declared its independence from Mexico while what has come to be known as the Battle of the Alamo had been raging since February 23rd. 

Approximately 200 men lost their lives when the Alamo was captured; their remains are now interred at nearby San Fernando Cathedral. 

A few weeks later the Texan forces under the leadership of Sam Houston would surprise Santa Anna and with the rallying battle cry of "Remember the Alamo" claim victory after an 18 minute battle. The Mexican forces would surrender on May 14th, but would maintain their stance that Texas was not independent and skirmishes would result from time to time. Texas would join the Union in 1845.

To read a chronology of the history of the Alamo click here to visit the Alamo's website.

Just to note I've kept this post short to focus on the commemoration of the fall of the Alamo, but am now planning to do some more posts relating to the Alamo. It has played a vital part in San Antonio's history and while often regarded as a "tourist must visit" site deserves recognition of its entire history. A previous post discussed the history of The DRT Meeting Hall (Alamo Hall) located on the Alamo grounds.