San Antonio, Texas is home to the Alamo, a historically significant site. Each year, two and one-half million people visit the site where Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie and Will Travis, along with 185 stalwart fighters for Texas Independence were killed. On March 6, 1836, they fought for thirteen days to the last breath against 3,000 Mexicans lead by General Santa Ana.
The Mission San Antonio de Valero was built in 1724 for Catholic missionaries and those they converted. Many people who enter the Alamo building are astounded at its small size. Tourists are reminded by guides that land development and time have taken their toll on the grounds and its buildings. Originally, the Alamo covered about three acres. Parts of the barracks and church are left. The limestone church was restored in the 1990s. Archaeologists have found multitudes of muskets, cannon balls and other ammunition. Tourists can view the eighteen-pounder and the gunade used at the battle, along with other memorabilia from the time. Archived letters indicate that Travis had repeatedly asked for reinforcements from the Provisional Texas Government that were never to come. After the massacre at the Alamo, the issue of Texas Independence became a primary point of focus.
Visitors to the Alamo cannot help but feel a sense of reverence at the fervor and belief in freedom the men who died showed with the giving of their blood. Admission to the Alamo is free, and there are numerous ways to experience the historic site. The tour guides are educated to differentiate the myth of the Alamo from its historical importance. Perhaps, you would like to plan your visit to coincide with the two day reenactments during the Remember The Alamo celebration held each year.
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