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04/24/2008: "Remember The Alamo"

OK, I promised you a picture of the Alamo, and you know how I hate to disappoint, so here it is - taken just before we headed to the airport for our return flight.

For a lot of us, this picture is all we know of the Alamo - a famous facade. After today, though, I can tell you that there's a lot more to know - and it's a story we should all learn.

Imagine you are one of the Texian fighters, hunkered down in March of 1836 in the former Mission San Antonio de Valero, under siege by the Mexican forces of General Santa Anna. Santa Anna is pissed at you because you defeated his forces earlier and kicked them out of Texas; now he's back to teach you a lesson. You already know from his activities against other rebel Mexican states that Santa Anna is a ruthless leader, willing to slaughter his own people to make a point. You have two choices - stay and fight and probably be killed in the process, or retreat and leave the town of San Antonio de Bexar defenseless against Santa Anna. Not only did the Texians stay, but more snuck into the mission during the thirteen day siege. Many mistakes were made on both sides, but in the end - despite a valiant effort by the Texians - Santa Anna prevailed and killed all but a handful of the defenders.

In defeat, though, the Texian forces found victory. The two weeks spent in the siege, coupled with Santa Anna's need to replace the losses inflicted upon the Mexican forces, gave Sam Houston and his main forces the month's time they needed to regroup. This ultimately led to the Texian defeat of the Mexicans at the Battle of San Jacinto and the capture of Santa Anna. The battle cry, "Remember the Alamo", first heard at that battle, echoes through the years.

Much of the Alamo that exists today, including the iconic church facade, were rebuilt by the Army during the 1840's after Texas became a state. Today, it is surrounded by civilization, including some tacky tourist fare, but the Alamo itself sits in a beautiful park-like setting. Dedicated docents provide context via short lectures (if you go, ask for Monte - he has the dramatic flair for the job ), and you are free to walk around the well-labeled complex. I had thought it something that I ought to see while in San Antonio - I know now it is cause to visit the town in the first place.

Remember the Alamo indeed ...