Todish and Todish book, The Alamo Sourcebook
- Todish, Timothy J.; Todish, Terry; Spring, Ted (1998), Alamo Sourcebook, 1836: A Comprehensive Guide to the Battle of the Alamo and the Texas Revolution, Austin, TX: Eakin Press, ISBN 9781571681522
p 1 Moses Austin had to convince Spanish authorities that americans made good colonists - Spain concerned that the advent of US colonists with close ties to the US would mean that Texas, its buffer between Indians/americans and Mexico, would be lost
after an attempted revolution in Aug 1812 (Republican Army of North; americans and mexicans), Maj Gen Joaquin Arredondo led a spanish counterforce; brutally crushed hte revolution, "then the Royalist army inflicited a brutal retribution on the citizens of the San Antonio area for their kindness to hte rebels. Many of the men were executed, many of the women violated."
p 2 Santa Anna was 19 years old in this campaign; he was decorated for his actions Moses Austin said he would only bring in hardworking, virtuous farmers and ranchers and owuld keep out the less desirable Americans who could pose a threat
After Moses Austin's death, SFA took over and selected land for his colony along the Brazos River
p 4 Mexican gov't changes in 1825 were supposed to give new power to states and let them set their own immigration policies when Coahuila and Texas combined, Texas got only one seat in state legislature, and capital was 500 miles from San Felipe de Austin new immigration policies meant that by 1830, there were 16000 Americans in Texas, almost 4times the number of Mexicans
the Anglo immgirants were "strong-willed, independent, and took a dim view of any authority, especially that imposed by a 'foreign' or 'despotic' government" Austin's group took their obligations to new country seriously; other groups were not
in 1830, Bustamante ordered military occupation of Texas, no more immigraiton from US, and new strict economic tariffs
in 1932, open conflict between Texas settlements and the central gov't early crisis caused by Juan (John) Davis Bradburn, who had been born in Virginia and hten became a career soldier in Mexican army Bradburn was an officer of the Centralist gov't Bradburn est a fort and customs house in Anahuac (the main port of entry for many ships coming into Texas) he had new regulations, which he claimed were in keeping with new laws from the Bustamente gov't
opposition - he arrested 2 lawyers, including William Barret Travis Travis and the other lawyer stirred up the locals, who declared themselves Federalists a group of colonists on their way to Anahuac drove off a larger Mexican force, yelling "viva Santa Anna"
Bradburn was recalled, and peace again
Texans called a convention an drequested independent statehood and immigration from the US reinstated
p 5 the Anglo settlers in Texas were known as Texians or Texicans hispanic settlers in Texas known as Tejanos - many Tejanos supported the Anglos in the independence movement became Texan during Republic of Texas years
demands from 1832 conventiondidn't reach mexico city b/c Santa anna ousted bustamente so they thought the problems would bre resolved
1833 convention - Austin brought requests to Santa Anna, as well as draft of a new state constitution, similar to US constitution; had been heavily influenced by Sam houston
Santa Anna agreed to reopen texas to immigration, but not independent statehood however, Austin had written a letter to San Antonio city council telling the colonists to plan on separate statehood no matter what happened in mexico city; conservatives on the council forwarded the letter to Santa anna
p 6 Austin arrested and pt in solitary confinement for 3 months, then jailed in a slightly better place he advised settlers in letters to hold no more conventions
at the time little energy in Texas for more conventions - cholera epidemic (killed bowie's family)
the gov't of Coahuila y Texas increased Texian representation in legislature from 1 to 3 seats, eased immigration policies and made land ownership easier to achieve
Santa Anna was slowly overturning the Constitution of 1824 and becoming a dictator
Zacatecas objected, so Santa Anna ordered their militia disarmed and disbanded and sent in regular army
when state legislature objected, he had the capital sacked; his brother in law Martin Perfecto de Cose sent to Coahuila y Tejas with another army
Saltillo Federalist gov and his supporters tried to escape but arrested
In Texas, settlers had a Peace party and a War Party
lat eJun e1835, San Felipe settlers intercepted some of cos's dispatches - Anahuac about to be reinforced, and sstate govt to be replaced by martial law, with Cos in charge; Santa Anna to lead an expeditionary force to Texas when done with Zacateca
a very vocal War Party member, Travis, father a force of 25 men and a cannon and move towards Anahuac, trying ot get there before reinforcement arrived for Mexican army; 45-man garrison surrendered - had no artillery and little ammunition
Mexican soldiers sent home with promise to not fight again in Texas
both governing council and Travis wrote apologies ot Cos - Cos demanded that Texians turn over Travis as a rebel, but they refused b/c that would have led to his execution
general amnesty in Aug? 1835, and austin released and returned ot Tx in Sept - he now advised that "war is our only recourse"
p 8
commandant at San Antonio sent a force of dragoons to Gonzales to take back a cannon that they had given the townspeople to keep the Indians away the "small bored gun, good for little more than starting horse races, mounted on a makeshift carriage with large wooden wheels, was guarded by 150 or so Txians"
flew a homemade flag imprinted with a picture of the cannon and words "COME AND TAKE IT!" Texians opened fire when dragoons tried to take it; one soldier killed, rest returned to San Antonio that happened Oct 2, 1835 called Texas Rev's "Battle of lexington"
Cos arrived in San Antonio and took command of the 1400 Mexican troops gathered there also a small garrison at Goliad
a week after Gonzales, small Texian force moved into Goliad at night and captured the presidio and its garrison - they sent those Mexican troops home again on parole
Goliad became rallying point for Texians opposed to Santa Anna's rule Austin elected commander of the allvolunteer army despite no military experience
volunteers came and went at will army decided to march on San Antonio "to press the issue of Texas autonomy"
p 9 San Antonio de Valero was first of the five missions built along San Antonio River mission founded May 1, 1718 town and military garrison est nearby and named San Antonio de Bexar
current chapel building built in 1758
p 10 walls 43 - 48 inches thick
mission secularized April 12 Dec 29, 1802, a prsidial cavalry unit, the Segunda Compania Volante de San Carlos de Parras (2nd Flying Company of San Carlos de Parras), arrived at old mision the company began at village Alamo de Parras (west of Saltillo), so the mission became known as Pueblo del Alamo in honor of the unit 1805, military hospital est, and cavalry garrisonned in the Alamo until 1825
during tx rev, San Antonio was largest city in Texas - pop of 2500 people
fall 1835, Cos improved Alamo's fortifications they built the artillery ramps up to rear wall of chapel, and built wooden palisade between chapel and low barracks (now known as Crockett's Wall0
Cos surrendered in Dec and Texians took over Alamo Engineer Green B. jameson continued to strengthen fortifications
afte ralamo fell, Mexicans destroyed most of the fortifications
early 900s, Daughters of Repub of Texas started fundraising campaign to purchase long barracks; when drive fell short, Clara Driscoll, daughter of wealthy rancher, put in $65k of her own money they then deeded the long barracks to State and in 1905 state named them custodians of what remained of Alamo, chapel, and long barracks - they manage and maintain it without cost to the State
p 11 no admissions fees today consists of chapel and long barracks area in front of the chapel (which had been bulk of Alamo compound0 now a city plaza with a cenotaph monument by Pompeo Coppini dedicated on the plaza in 1939
p 13 "Army of the Provisional Govt of Texas" - volunteers; anyone with money or charisma to recruit a unit could be an officer of volunteers many units and indiv volunteers from US, incl Kentucky mustangs, Alabama Red Rovers, Tennessee Mounted Voluneers, Mobile greys and 2 companies of new orleans Greys
many of the units, esp NO Greys, included immigrants and "international adventure seekers"
deserters from US Army came as well perhaps 1 in 3 adult male Tejanos joined Texian army 1 in 7 Anglo/Texian settlers joined the army, based on 1830 census
no uniform for Texas Army, either regular or volunteer
"One Texian volunteer, Noah Smithwick, wrote this classic description of the Volunteer Army en route from Goliad to San Antonio in the fall of 1835"
p 14 "Words are inadequate to convey an impression of the appearance of the first Texas army as it formed in marching order. Nothing short of ocular demonstration could do it justice…. Buckskin breeches were the nearest approach to uniform and there was wide diversity even there, some of them being new and soft and yellow, while others, from long familiarity with rain and grease and dirt, had become hard and black and shiny … shins (were) as guiltless of socks as a Kansas Senator's. Boots being an unknown quantity, some wore shoes and some moccasins. Here a broad brimmed sombrero overshadowed the military cap at its side; there, a tall “beegum” rode familiarly beside a coonskin cap, with the tail hanging down behind, as all well regulated tails should do … here a bulky roll of bed quilts jostled a pair of “store ” blankets; there the shaggy brown buffalo robe contrasted with a gaily colored checkered counterpane on which the manufacturer had lavished all the skill of dye and weave known to art… in lieu of a canteen, each man carried a Spanish gourd…. Here a big American horse loomed above the nimble Spanish pony, there a half-broke mustang pranced beside a sober methodical mule. A fantastic military array to a casual observer, but the one great purpose animating every heart clothed us in a uniform more perfect in our eyes than was ever donned by regulars on dress parade."
some of the volunteer units had some semblance of uniforms (like matching red hunting shirts)
three divisions of the army - Regular Army - 2 year enlistment; subject to regular army discipline and chain of command Permanent Volunteers - enlisted for duration of war; elected their own officers; many were citizens of Texas before hostilities began Volunteer Auxiliary Corps - enlisted for 6 mos, almost entirely recent emigrants and units from US
also militia units, such as Gonzales Ranging Company of Mounted Volunteers (no official status)
fall of 1835, Prov Gov't passed a resolution to raise a Ranging Co of Rilfeman; law passed Nov 24, 1835
p 15 authorized 3 co of 56 men each; each would have a captain, 1st lt, and 2nd lt; the corps would be commanded by a major - Robert "Three legged Willie" Williamson given that job
Rangers would et $1.25/day
At alamo - 2 co of regular cavalry, plus senior officer of cavalry branch (Travis) regular officer of artillery, Capt Almeron Dickinson Permanent volunteers - Bowie's co, Carey's artillery co, San Antonio Greys Vol Aux Corps - Tennesee Mounted Volunteers militia - Gonzales Ranging Co
p 18 Mexican army had few systematic records; those that were kept were often later lost or destroyed
In 1836, Mexican army based mostly on armies of Spain and Nap. France; however, army reorganized as hte gov't did most supplies used until worn out, regardless of the standards of equipment nominal medical support for army, and few gunsmiths
a few battalions were well-trained veterans, others were raw recruits, many from the countys jails the Yucatan Battalion was made of Mayan Indians who could not speak Spanish
Mex army volunteers served 8 years; conscripts served 10 lax discipline
in 1835, prob less than 2000 effective troops most soldiers were 5' to 5'6" tall 2/3 of officers were European mercenaries
p 19 in 1835, Mexican army raised 6,000 recruits to prepare for Texas campaign (most were conscripted) corruption rampant, so many supplies ordered the for army never arrived
In Dec 1835, Mexican army reorganized into tercios = battalion/regiment there were 10
each infantry battalion had 8 companies; 6 of fusiliers (line companies) and 2 elite companies - light infantry ot grenadiers
also 8 standing companies and 1 sharpshooter company abvg number of people ion a battalion was 344
6 cavalry regiments and 2 "independent" regular cavalry units - each regiment had 4 squdrons of 2 companies each
p 20 "The fact that slavery was outlawed in Mexico would have been news to the Indios who were serving out legal ninety-nine-year indentures, or who had been forced into military service"
"Those in the ranks of the army who were not Indios were mostly peon conscripts and convicts. Very few enlisted men entered the army voluntarily"
p 23 siege of bexar march to bexar had about 300 Texians, led by Austin and flying the Gonzales flag; in leadership were William Wharton, Ben Milam, Travis and Bowie
Oct 27 1835 - 90 men sent by Austin to find a base of operations for the Texian army; led by Bowie and Fannin set up camp at Mission Concepcion, 2 miles from San ANtonio in front of the mission was a gully that dropped 6-10 ft to the river
heavy fog that night hid a Mexicanforce advancing 250-400 infantry and cavalry with a 4-lb cannon as fog cleared, they headed toward the mission the Texians got into the gully, fired from edge and dropped down to the river to reload
withstood several charges abt 60 Mexicans killed; 1 Texan Mexican troops withdrew and left the cannon to the Texians
about an hour after that, the main body of the Texas Army arrived
texans had little artillery, and knew that Mexicans had fortified several plazas in the city, they chose to lay siege to the city rather than storm it
Austin had called a consultation for Nov in San Felipe, and the time was approaching Houston arrived with the army, and turned down Austin's offer to let him lead it they finally decided that the rank and file delegates and line officers would attend the consulation; staff officers would supervise the siege
p 24 Houston and Bowie left Austin, Wharton, Travis remained at siege
Consulation convened Nov 3, 1835 called for 3 delegates from every municipality in Texas Austin could not attend but sent a letter asking them to adhere strictly to the 1824 Constitution and asked them to issue a declaration "explaining that the Texians were taking up arms not to gain independence from Mexico, or union with the United States, but rather to defend their rights as Mexican citizens under the Constitution of 1824 which Santa Anna had revoked. Many of the delegates were committed to independence, however. The main question to be decided at the Consultation was whether Texas should remain united with Mexico and continue to support the Constitution of 1824, or if independence should be declared. Not surprisingly, the War Party called for independence, while the Peace Party stood for continued adherence to the Mexican Constitution, yet seeking independent statehood for Texas. Perhaps the most significant speech was given by Houston, believed by many to be part of the War Party. Houston called for remaining in the Mexican Republic, reasoning that to declare independence would alienate Federalists in other parts of Mexico and throughout Texas who might otherwise support the rebels in their conflict with Santa Anna."
Nov 7 declaration stated "“The people of Texas, availing themselves of their natural rights, solemnly declare that they have taken up arms in defense of their rights and liberties which were threatened by the encroachments of military despots and in defense of the Republican principles of the federal constitution of Mexico of 1824.” (Boyd, 30) The Consultation also set up a provisional state government consisting of a president and a general council, which would include one representative from each municipality in Texas. Henry Smith, a member of the War Party from Velasco, was elected president."
Houston appointed to the Select Committee on Indian affairs, as he had spent much of his career dealing with Indian nations; needed support of the Indians (or at least their neutrality) to win Houston also commander-in-chief of Provisional ARmy of Texas; no authority over volunteers already mustered; he was supposed to raise a new army with 2500people who would serve 2 years and be paid in land grants
Ausitin asked to go US to get money, volunteers, and supplied
when e left, Col Ed BUrleson elected commander of volunteer army, with Francis Johnson as second-in-command
"Unfortunately, the Consultation adjourned without defining the separation of powers and responsibilities of the president and council. This oversight would lead to several crises in the next several months, and would be a contributing factor to the loss of life at Goliad and the Alamo."
Nov 6, Ugartechea arrived with reinforcements (most onscripts) -Cos's force now about 1500 men occasional sorties as Mexicans went out for food, firewood, or to harass Texians, but few casualties on either side
One time, a Travis-led patrol captured 300 MExican horses, 10 mules, 5 prisoners, 6 muskets, and 2 swords
another time, NO Grays "drove in some Mexican pickets and found themselves actually in the town of San ANtonio"; Mex artillery fired, but Deaf Smith organized a rescue party and covered their retreat
Nov 26, Deaf Smith brought news of a Mex pack train going to San Antonio rumors for several days that a shipment of silver/gold headed to Bexar to pay troops and purchase supplies from local merchants Bowie organized volunteers "a running battle called the Grass Fight", over 70 MEx casualties and only 1 Tex lost
p 25 at height of siege, over 1000 Tex By early Dec, just over 500, incl over 100 NO Grays who owned no property in Tex provisions almost nonexistent no munitions, so artillery would fire back whatever survived when Mexican artiellery fired most had only 1 blanket and no warm clothes and it was getting cold
several MEx deserters and a few Anglo Texians who had been prisoners came in to say that situation was bad in San Antonio; Burleson announced plans to assault S.A. but reversed when he thought the plans had been betrayed
Ben Milam was one of most active War Party members; grabbed a musket, drew a line in the dirt with the butt and called "Who will follow old Ben Milam into San Antonio? Cross over the line!” About 300 of the remaining soldiers crossed over. Burleson then asked those who did not cross over to at least stay in camp as reserves while the attack took place"
assault planned for night of Dec 4-5 three division - first, with 6-lber cre, led by James Neill & would create a diversion by battering the Alamo other two would assault town - one commanded by Milam, the other (mostly Greysw), commanded by Col. Frank Johnson that night, weather bitterly cold, and more of army left; at 3:00 am, when fell out, less than 250 people left
Cos returned fire and MEx prepared for assault on Alamo rest of Texians moved against far side of San ANtonio, "driving in the pickets and taking possession of some houses on the edge of town. As the morning sun dawned, a fierce fire-fight began between houses occupied by the Texians and those held by Cos' forces. Both sides also used artillery, but the Mexicans had an advantage in that they were holding the better built stone houses of the upper-class residents near the town's plazas, while the Texians occupied the smaller and more vulnerable adobe huts further out. For about two days a bitter stalemate took place, made worse for the Texians when one division mistakenly opened fire on a house held by the other division, and at least one Texian was killed before the friendly fire ceased."
"On the morning of December 7, the Texians found that during the night the Mexicans had dug a new trench on the Alamo side of the river, which made the Texian left vulnerable to more effective small-arms fire. At about noon, the tide turned. Ironically it was a common tool, not a weapon, that brought the beginning of the end for the Mexicans. Wielding a crowbar, a Tennessee scout, Henry Karnes, yelled: “Damn the Mexicans and their escopetas!” (muskets) and raced for a Mexican held building. Helped by covering fire from the more accurate Texian rifles, Karnes made it to the door of the house, which was less substantial than the stone walls. Directly below the soldiers on the roof, he was now safe from escopeta fire. As he used the crowbar to force the door open, a group of Texians joined him and fought their way into the house. Most of the Mexicans ran out a back door, but a few surrendered. Unable to keep prisoners securely but not wanting to execute them, the Texians called upon the soldados' religion to ensure their parole agreement. Crosses were drawn on a house wall, and the prisoners were made to swear they would not fight in Texas again while putting their right hands on the cross and their left hands on their hearts."
many of houses adjoined,
p 26 so could avoid open streets civilians and prisoners were moved to the rear
at midafternoon, break in fighting, so Milam held council of war in front yd of Veramendi house - with Johnson, Karnes, and Creed Taylor planned assault on Military Plaza Milam hit in the head with a ball and died - Mex soldier fired from branches of a large cypress near bank of river; he was armed with a Baker rifle; Tex opened fire and killed him
after burying Milam, Texians resumed house-to-house fighting; that night they chose Frank Johnson to be the new commander
"One of the main centers of Mexican resistance was the tower of the San Fernando Cathedral. From this tower, Mexican sharpshooters and two small guns kept the Texians at a distance. In response, the Texians dragged a twelve-pounder from house to house until they had a clear shot at the tower. Firing several rounds, they collapsed part of the roof and forced the Mexicans to give up the tower. "
"Ugartechea showed up with several hundred “reinforcements,” about a hundred regular infantry, some regular cavalry, a handful of officers, a motley band of camp followers, and the rest recruits. It was the recruits that drove Cos to the edge of despair. Almost all of them were conscripts, many of them convicts in chains. None of them had been trained; all were hungry and tired."
""In such critical circumstances,” Cos would write in his official report to Santa Anna, “there was no other measure than to advance and occupy the Alamo which, due to its small size and military position, was easier to hold. In doing so, I took with me the artillery, packs and the rest of the utensils I was able to transport.” (Chariton: 100 Days, 75) While this was going on, more than 175 of his best troops, the presidial cavalry, deserted along with some infantry."
years later, Capt Sanchez Navarro, who arrived with Ugar., claimed troops didn't desert but misunderstood withdraw ordere and headed for Rio Grande also said that Cos only intended to move wounded to Alamo and not abandon town a contingent of the Morelos Battalion held Main Plaza with a howitzer and muskets until Cos gave surrender order
6:30 am on Dec 9, Mex sent flag of truce 2 days toreach agreement; Mex had 6 days to stay in Alamo and prepare for trip home; no member of either army to approach other side with arms in that time regular soldiers could stay, but recently arrived convicts had to go home
"Most of the military stores would be left with the Texians, but each Mexican soldier would be allowed his musket and ten rounds of ammunition for defense from Indians on the journey home. The column would also be allowed to take a four-pound cannon and ten rounds of powder and shot"
during the battle, Cos had run up the blood-red no quarter flag, but Tex. were generous
with Cos's withdrawal, no more Mex. troops in Texas soldiers were not supposed tro be used to fight against est. of the 1824 const again most Tex knew war not over
p 27 "Following his death during the Siege of Bexar, Ben Milam was buried in full Masonic regalia with all accompanying rites. According to some sources, Almeron Dickinson wrapped his Mason's apron around Susannah before the final Mexican assault, trusting that this would ensure that the Mexican officers would protect her from harm. There are also stories that Sam Houston spared Santa Anna after San Jacinto because the Mexican dictator flashed the Masonic distress sign which obliged Houston, a fellow Mason, to do all in his power short of endangering his own life to save Santa Anna."
"a controversial proposal by several Mexican Federalist leaders seemed like a good way to solve the last problem. The plan was to invade northeastern Mexico and take over the rich city of Matamoros. It was hoped that the Mexican Federalists would then rise against Santa Anna and join the Texian army in restoring the constitution. This plan was supported by liberal politician Lorenzo de Zavala, Brig. Gen. José Antonio Mexia, former governor of Coahuila y Texas Augustin Viesca, and former acting president of the Republic of Mexico Valentin Gomez Farias, among others. Also heavily promoting the expedition was Dr. James Grant, a lively and popular Scot with extensive holdings in the Matamoros area"
in Nov, GEn Jose ANtonio Mexia had led 200 volunteers in a raid on Tampico, hoping to move north to Matamoros after Federalists arrived with reinforcements
p 28 No federalist support, so forced to withdraw; 60 killed or wounded in original fighting, more than 30 were taken prisoner during retreat - all later executed
council voted to support new proposal anyway Smith vetoed but council overrode the veto and instructed Mexia to go to Bexar to get troops and supplies
Houston ordered Bowie to raise a company and go to Matamoros; if couldn't hold the city, then harass the MEx troops as much as possible
late Dec, Mexia, "angered that the Texian government had not formally responded to his proposal" moved his base of operations to NO so he could recruit US volunteers and exiled Federalists
SFA wrote to Frank Johnson (commander) to "be very careful not to let the Centralists turn the conflict into a national war. The Texians must encourage all the Mexican Federalists to begin their own campaigns against Santa Anna, and then only support them in an auxiliary capacity" (quotes not Austin)
Dec 12, Houston officially est REgular Texa sArmy - cash bonus of $24 and 800 acres of land and instant Tex. citizenship under regs of 1824 const enlistment 2 yrs or war duration Volunteer Auxiliary corps also est - 640 acres if served 2 yrs or duration of war, 320 acres if served 1 year vol could elect officers but were ultimately under Houston's command
wash-on-Brazos named HQ called for 5000 volunteers many of those coming from the US were already military units that did not want to submit to his control but remain ind; many of them went to Goliad
"On December 20, 1835, a proclamation signed by the entire garrison declared “that the former province and department of Texas is, and of right ought to be, a free, sovereign and independent state.”"
although Houston supposedly in charge, council gave secret orders to Fannin, Johnson, and Grant to prepare their troops for MAtamoros assault Houston went to gOliad to ask Fannin's troops to stay and protect the Texas frontier from anticipated MEx invasion
p 29 late Dec, Houston assigned James C. Neill to command troops in Bexar, and asked Green B James to determine what Neill needed
Houston ordered Travis to send junior officers to US to try to raise troops; should report to San Felipe by Mar 1, 1836
rumors that Mex agents were trying to stir up the Indians in the north gov't appted Houston, John Fortes and John CAmeron as commissioners to treat with the Cherokees
Dec 30, Horatio Alsbury wrote to Houston that 300 men were leaving Bexar that evening for Matamoros, leaving only 100 behind; Neill stayed behind- supposed to collect all guns in the town and move them into the Alamo and destroy the fortifications that Cos had built in the town
early Jan, Tex council voted that no free Negroes or mulattors be allowed itno Texas, and any found could be dold into savery, with 1/3 of the price to go to arrester and rest to treasury
On January 6, 1836, Neill wrote from San Antonio de Bexar to the governor and General Council:
…. We have 104 men and two distinct fortresses to garrison, and about twenty four pieces of artillery…. we have no provisions or clothing since Johnson and Grant left. If there has ever been a dollar here I have no knowledge of it. The clothing sent here by the aid and patriotic exertions of the honorable Council, was taken from us by arbitrary measures of Johnson and Grant, taken from men who endured all the hardships of winter and who were not even sufficiently clad for summer, many of them having but one blanket and one shirt, and what was intended for them given away to men some of whom had not been in the army more than four days, and many not exceeding two weeks. If a divide had been made of them, the most needy of my men could have been made comfortable by the stock of clothing and provisions taken from here. About 200 of the men who had volunteered to garrison this place for 4 months left my command contrary to my orders…. I want here for this garrison at all times 200 men and I think 300 until the repairs and improvements of the fortifications is completed, a chart and index of which has been sent to headquarters at Washington, with the present condition of the fort, and such improvements suggested by Mr. Jameson as has met my approbation…. …. The men have not even money to pay for their washing, the hospital is in want of stores and even the necessary provisions for well men was not left the wounded by Grant and Johnson.
p 30 Neill also said that his army could be starved out in 4 days When Grant and Johnson left for Matamoros they impressed cattle and horses of the cits of S.A>, so they couldn't cultivate crops
Johnson was angry that the council did not approve commissions for people he recommended and declined to participate in Matamoros campagain; when council appointed Fannin in his place, he changed his mind
FAnnin, believing he was in charge, ordred all Matamoros volunteers to assemble at San Patricio Jan 24-27; they'd sail from Velasco abt Feb 18
Jan 9, Davy Crockett arrived in San Agustine and enrolled in army as a volunteer for 6 months
Jan 10, Jonson issued a call to army for the Federal Volunteer ARmy of Texas - to go to MAtamoros
"On the same day, in a letter from New Orleans, Austin at last acknowledged the death of his dream. “The information from Mexico recd. here is that the leading men of the federal party have united with Santana to invade Texas; consequently, the position taken by the declaration of 7 November in favor of the republican principles of the Constitution of 1824 can no longer do any good, the object of that declaration having been to extend light and liberty over Mexico, and thus secure the cooperation of the liberal party"
p 31 Jan 11, Congress impeached gov Smith for "refusing to back the Congress' chosen commander for the Matamoros expedition, Fannin, and appointing his own favorite, James Bowie, “not known to the government as an officer of any rank whatever.” The Congress also denied any responsibility for Grant's raiding the stores in San Antonio de Bexar to help the expedition, denying “having ever recognized in Dr. Grant any authority whatever.”"
"Smith responded, “Well, you have adopted your course and I will pursue mine!” (Chariton: 100 Days, 127) James Robinson, the lieutenant governor, was sworn in as acting governor."
Jan 14, Neill again told Houston about lack of supplies, clothing, rifle powder, and no pay said 20 men planning ot leave the following day, leaving about 80 behind also wrote that he believed Santa ANn to be closer than generally believed, but without sufficient horses couldn't send out scouts
Houston sent Bowie to Bexar with 30-50 men to haul away everything they could and destroy the rest after arriving, Bowie, Neill, Jameson, and the majority of the garrison decided that Santa Anna would have to be stopped at Bexar - artillery and munitions couldn't be moved b/c not enough animals and carts, and they didn't want to destroy them Jameson had a map showing current and planned improvements to the Alamo to make it a better fortification also point of honor
"Bowie spoke for the entire garrison when he wrote to Governor Smith on February 2: “The salvation of Texas depends in great measure in keeping Bejar out of the hands of the enemy. It serves as the frontier picquet guard and if it were in the possession of Santa Anna there is no strong hold from which to repel him in his march towards the Sabine…. It does, however, seem certain that an attack is shortly to be made on this place…. The citizens of Bexar have behaved well…. These citizens deserve our protection and the public safety demands our lives rather than to evacuate this post to the enemy….”" same letter also said "Colonel Neill and myself have come to the solemn resolution that we will rather die in these ditches than give up this post to the enemy"
p 32 next day, Travis arrived with a company of regular cavalry He soon wrote a letter to the governor, "We would consider death preferable to disgrace, which would be the result of giving up a Post which has been so dearly won … should Bejar fall, your friend will be buried beneath its ruins….""
a few days later, Crockett rode in with the Tennessee Mounted volunteers (commanded by Wm B Harrison)
with three potential leaders there, Neill got permission to go on leave many sources say he left to be with ill family members, some historians think it was cowardice, "However, in recent years, research has indicated that the most likely reason Neill left his post at Bexar was to gather supplies and pay for his men. Given the tone of his letters to the government and Houston, this seems very likely"
Feb 11, Neill left, putting Travis in command volunteers claimed they had the right to choose whether they were commanded by an officer in the regular army and demanded to elect their own leader Travis agree, and they chose Bowie Bafter a few days, they agreed on a join command military decisions would be made jointly and both would sign orders
for next 10 days, continuted to improve fortifications following Green Jameson's plans the lunette outside the main gate (begun by Cos), was strengthened, and a palisade and dirt wall erected in open area between south wall and chapel
most evenings, garrison and town held fandangos on night of Feb 21, one was held in honor of Grg Washington's birthday Santa Anna's advance guard only 25 miles away, camped on south banks of Medina spied told them about the party, so a force of dragoons ordered to push ahead and cut off the town from the Alamo a sudden storm caused river to rise and stopped the scheme
p34 S.A. called his army "Army of Operations in Texas" began assembling at San Luis Potosi, 365 mi from Bexar; eventually numbered 4000
Gen Ramirez y Sesma has started north with 1st Division to reinforce Cos but did not get there in time rest of Mex army arrived at Saltillo on Jan 7, 1836 spent several weeks training while supplies were gathered in Saltillo, Santa Anna got a stomach ailment and was sick for 2 weeks; since no medical dept, he hired Dr. Reyes, a local doctor, as his personal physician
The chain of command of the Army of Operations in Texas was as follows:
Commander-in-Chief: Antonio López de Santa Anna
Aide-de-Camp to Santa Anna: Gen. Manuel Fernandez Castrillon
Personal Secretary to Santa Anna: Ramon Martínez Caro Second-in-Command: Gen. Vicente Filisola Major Brigade General (third-in-command): Juan Arago
Quartermaster: Brig. Gen. Adrian Woll
Purveyor (Commissary) General: Col. Ricardo Dromundo
Commander of the First Infantry Brigade: Brig. Gen. Antonio Gaona Commander of the Second Infantry Brigade: Gen. Eugenio Tolsa
Commander of the Cavalry Brigade: Brig. Gen. Juan José de Andrade Commander of the Artillery: Lt. Col. Pedro Ampudia Commander of the Zapadores Battalion: Col. Augustin Amat Commander of the Vanguard of the Advance: Gen. Joaquin Ramirez y Sesma
p 35 Spanish tradition involved execution or enslavement of prisoners Anglo American tradition was for parole - release after promise not to bear arms again "In time, the lack of mercy shown by the Mexicans was met by a fierceness in the Texians that embarrassed many of their fellow countrymen. At San Jacinto, during the following violent years of the Republic, and especially during the Mexican War, the Texas Rangers and other volunteers developed a reputation for cruelty"
Jan 25, Santa Anna paraded is men in grand review; next day the first columns headed out of Saltillo Brig. Gen. Jose Urrea went to Gulf Coast the other 4000 men and 12 cannon went north under Santa Anna's direct command - spread out for miles, inclj 1800 pack mules, 33 4-wheeled wagons, 200 2-wheeled carts, and several hundredc arts owneded the civilians
"The purveyor general, Col. Ricardo Dromundo, Santa Anna's brother-in-law, had been given funds enough to provision 6,000 men for two months, but suspiciously little of this ever reached the troops."
soldederas comman in almost every army of this time period; they also served as nurses, cooks, and laundresses
p 36 Fisiola wrote "“All of this country, in all directions is a wilderness difficult to cross during half the year because of the lack of water, and during the other half because of too much of it"
Feb 13 a snowstorm struck, covering the road knee deep with snow; some froze to death frequently attacked by Comanche
army on half-rations, so only got 1/2 pound of hardtack each day; excessive foraging made the locals bitter little forage for the horses, even after snow gone men had dysentery, spotted itch, and exhaustion; the ill were sometimes transported in the gun and ammo wagons if room Santa Anna had a coach for day travel and a red-and-write striped marquee to sleep in
arrived Monclova Feb 1 Feb 12 rested for 4 days at Rio grande Feb 16, crossed Rio Grande, and joined by Ramirex y Sesma's first Brigade, which had 1541 men that day, S.A. wrote to Mexico City officials that hoped to reach Bexar by March 2
"On February 21, Santa Anna reached the Medina River, only twenty-five miles from Bexar. Not realizing that the Mexicans were anywhere near this close, the Texians had planned a large fandango for the night of February 21" "Friendly Mexicans reported the party plans to Santa Anna. He in turn ordered General Ramirez y Sesma to mount a hand-picked force of cavalry on the more rested horses of the infantry officers, and make a surprise strike during the party. Such a blow most certainly would have crippled the small garrison, and made the later, heroic defense of the Alamo impossible. Fate, however, smiled upon the Texians. Sudden heavy rains made the Medina too treacherous for Sesma's cavalry to cross, and the raid had to be canceled."
On Feb 23, first of Santa Anna's army entered Bexar (29 day trip of 365 miles - one month before expected) Tex. thought he would wait for spring grass so horses would have food
"No sooner did Santa Anna take possession of the city than he ordered a blood red flag, symbolizing “no quarter,” raised from the spire of the San Fernando Cathedral. The garrison answered with a cannon shot, and the Siege of the Alamo was on!"
p 37 15-16 in of snow Feb 16
p 39 Feb 23 most Bexarenos preparing to leave; friendly ones told Travis that S.A. was less than a day away 1 pm lookout at SF church saw troops: "More likely, he had seen the sun reflecting off shiny lanceheads and dragoon helmets, a sight which disappeared when the riders went into an arroyo. This would also explain why, when others went to look, they saw nothing"
Travis sent Dr. John Sutherland and Smith to scout. " If the scouts returned with their horses at anything faster than a walk, it meant that they had spotted the Mexicans. About a mile and a half out of town, Sutherland and Smith spotted a large force of Mexican cavalry. They turned around and headed back to Bexar at full speed. Along the way, Sutherland's horse tripped and fell on the doctor's leg. Although in pain, he managed to remount and continue his dash toward the town. When the sentry in the cathedral tower saw them coming, he again frantically rang the church bell. This time there was no doubt what it meant."
p 40
Travis sent 2 messages, one to Fannin, and one to alcalde and cits of Gonzalez
Dr. Sutherland and Smith went together to carry the messages - they could see the Mex army getting into town as they left Sutherland and Smith met with Bonham, who was returning after unsuccessful plea to Fannin
on outskirts of Bexar was a Mexican tricolor flag, in center were two stars, signifying Coahila and Texas - probably raised by Seguin's men "as a symbol of their loyalty to the constitutional government."
took the flag into the Alamo with them by 3 pm, Military Plaza full to Mex troops - stood in formation to impress those who might have questionably loyaltyl about 1500 Mex. men there at this point (Permanent Matamoros Battaltion, Permanent Jiminez Batt, Active Batt of San Luis Potosi, Dolores Cavalry Regiment, and 8 pieces of artillery) Travis had 150 men Almeron Dickinson assigned to guns at rear of chapel; Travis took post at artillery battery on N wall; Crockett at wooden palisade between S wall and chapel - most vulnerable position - "In military protocol, this was the post of the highest honor."
in initial cannon fire from Alamo, S.A> reported that a corporal and a chasseur were killed and 8 men wounded; Mex. fired 4 grenades from 2 howitzer; no Tex. casualties
Bowie believed that Mex. had tried to signal for a parley before the firing, and sent Green B. Jameson to meet with SA who would not receive him; instead met wih COl Juan Almonte and Jose Bartres; Almonte said that Jameson asked for an honorable surrender; Bartres sent back a reply "I reply to you, according to the order of His Excellency, that the Mexican army cannot come to terms under any conditions with rebellious foreigners to whom there is no recourse left, if they wish to save their lives, than to place themselves immediately at the disposal of the Supreme Government from whom alone they may" p 41 "expect clemency after some considerations.”
shortly after, Travis sent Capt Albert Martin to Mex. lines - received same reply from Almonte by time parelys over, nightfall, and no further fighting. MEx. erected artillery battery near Veramendi house
"The Texians' goal was to bide time so that Houston could organize and train his army, and the Texian government could organize itself into some kind of a stable body. To do this, the defenders had to hold Santa Anna at bay for as long as possible. The Mexicans, in turn, had to dispose of the Alamo as quickly as possible and continue their advance"
p 42 Wed, Feb 24 - first full day of siege Mex army reconnoitered Alamo defenses 11 am, S.A. went out with cavalry, at one time within musket shot of he Alamo S.A. had personally presided over distribution of shoes to the grenadiers and light infantry early afternoon, artillery batter of 2 8-lb and a mortar began to fire, 350 yds from Alamo; Alamonte reported that 2 of the Alamo guns, incl 18 lb were dismounted (not out of service long though) Mex took possession of several jacales, huts, in nearby La Villita, but suffered casualties
Bowie collapsed, probably with typhoid pneumonia Bowie turned over all command to Travis - "entrusted his sisters-in-law to the care of Travis and Crockett"
Travis wrote Victory or Death letter and sent it out with Capt Albert MArtin - "The letter would be published and read throughout Texas, then North America, and finally most of Europe, and its message of heroism and defiance has become an essential part of the Alamo story."
during day, Gregorio Esparza, member of Seguin's cavalry, and his family came into the Alamo his brother Francisco was part of local PResidial Cavalry Company and served under S.A.
evening, Col Juan Bringas led scouts across a footbridge over the river; Tex. killed one soldier Santa Anna ordered his military band to serenade the Tex defenders during the cannon bombardment
Feb 25 (Thur) - 2 more Mex. batteries est. during the night; Alamo returned fire S.A. again personally inspected outside of Alamo according to Traivs, at abt 10 am, 200-300 Mex. soldiers cross S.A. river and took cover in LA Villita houses
p 43 this was 90-100 yds from Alamo walls Tex fired with canister and grapeshot from artillery and small arms fight lasted 2 hours "Charles Despallier, Robert Brown, James Rose, and a few others valiantly sallied out of the Alamo and set fire to some of the huts and some hay that was affording cover to the Mexicans." 2 Mex killed and 4 wounded; several Tex. scratched by flying rock, but no serious injuries
in afternoon, Mex. posted men to the east on road to Gonzales that night, Tex gathered wood for firewood and burned more huts that were giving Mex cover during night Mex. under Col Juan Morales dug two more trenches (finished around 11:30 pm) to give cover to Matamoros Battalion 2 more artillery batteries est, one 300 yds south of Alamo, other near old Powderhouse, 1000 yds to SE - now under fire from 3 sides
about 9pm a norther blew in; Travis sent Seguin and ANtonio Cruz (his orderly) with another plea for help; they did enounter a Mexican patrol but escaped thanks to knowledge of Spanish, knowledge of local area, and that he was riding Bowie's horse, the fastest in the mission
at Goliad, Fannin began preparations to go help
Friday, Feb 26 only 39 degrees that day at dawn, Tex noticed Ramirez y Sesma's cavalry going to the E; Tex. engaged on horseback and cavalry driven back Mex had 8 guns in place to west, s, and SE of Alamo; steady bombardment all day Tex. conserved ammo and rarely fired back Tex cont to work on defenses under Jameson's direction several Tex parties ventured out, likely in search of firewood; quickly driven back by Mex sharpshooters but no casualties
p 44 Fannin began a relief effort, with 320 men, 4 pieces of artillery and supplies supplies were limited, men poorly clothed and underfed and no horses to move the supply wagons and artillery, so had to rely on slow moving oxen
night of Feb 26, Tex burned more huts, near the position of hte San Luis Potosi Batt.
Feb 27 temp still only abt 39 degrees; not much firing on either side Lt Manuel Menacho of presidial cavalry sent to forage on Seguin and Flores ranches to get food for the troops tried to cut of Alamo water supply by sealing off irrigation ditch that ran into the fort Tex. completed a well at S end of the Alamo; struck water but "damaged an earthen parapet near the low barracks that limited their ability to fire to the south."
rest of Army of Operations on its way (Feb 25, first infantry brigade reached San AMbrosio, a days march north of Rio Bravo; de la Pena reported that "due to careless handling, the powder supply of the Aldama Battalion caught fire, causing “considerable alarm” in camp"
p 45 at Alamo, Travis again wrote to Fannin for help, again sending bonham Santa Anna sent his own couriers - one to Mexico City and others to other commanders of the Army of Operations to let them know of the siege
Feb 28 (Sunday) Mex cont to shell Alamo and again tried to cut off the water supply weather better rumors that 200 Tex arriving from Goliad in Mex camp Seguin rounded up 25 men to go back to Alamo, met sutherland (and 12 more volunteers) at Cibolo River and waited for Fannin, who didn't show
Col Duque's column joined with Cos and his men
Feb 29 (Nom) weather up to 55 degreees Allende Infantry Batt at E side of Alamo; Jiminez Batt at left of Gonzales rd S.A. again inspected Alamo walls 7:30 pm that night, SEcundino Alvarez (private first class of San Luis Batt_) ordered to get close to Alamo to reconnoiter; shot and killed by Tex sharpshooter
"Henry Warnell summed it up when he said, “I'd much rather be out on that open prairie…. I don't like to be penned up like this"" men tired, weather bad, food bad
p 46 Tue, March 1 only 36 degrees at dawn Gonzales volunteers trying to get in; approached from NE (most Mex patrols concentrating on roadto Goliad at SE)
"According to some sources, they brought with them the first flag of the Texas Revolution—the “Come and Take It” flag that had flown above the cannon at the engagement at Gonzales." later in day, Ramirez y Sesma brought his men back to their former positions around Alamo - thought no reinforcements coming from Goliad
"The effect of the Gonzales Volunteers on the morale of the Alamo garrison was way out of proportion to their numbers. The beleaguered garrison now knew that the rest of Texas understood their plight. If these men had come, surely others would soon follow"
". Research currently being conducted by Tom Lindley, of Austin, Texas, suggests that the garrison may have consisted of about 257 men on the day of the final battle. Although much more work must be done before anything definite can be said in this regard, one thing is certain. Those who did come knew full well what odds they faced, and they came to the Alamo anyway. They all died there, but in doing so, they gained a glorious place in Texas history."
throughout the day, Lt Col Pedro Ampudia, acting general of artillery, supervised work on siege lines getting closer to Alamo
Wed Marc 2 bitterly cold (1st Inf Brigade still on way) "Lieutenant de la Pena reported that it was so cold that written messages could not be sent because the ink froze in the inkwells. The column crossed the Medina River and marched to within a short distance of Bexar before stopping for the night. They rested and prepared for a grand entrance into the town the next day."
Lt Menacho again sent to SEguin ranch to find corn; a chasseur from San Luis Potosi battalion, Trinidad Delgado, drowned accidentally during afternoon, S.A. went on other scouting trip; discovered a road near the Alamo and posted Jiminez Batt there
that day, Tex Dec of Ind signed (Alamo men never knew)
p 47 March 3 (Thur) - Tex fired sporadic artillery rounds S.A. again scouted new Mex. Battery on N side of Alamo, within musket shot of walls abt 11 am, Bonham made it through enemy lines with no injury whatsoever Fannin not coming; Bonham had then gone to Gonzales to get men, only to find they had already left devestating to garrison's morale ". He carried a letter addressed to William Travis from his friend, Maj. R. M. “Three-Legged Willie” Williamson, who had recently been appointed commander of the Texas Rangers. The letter, written in Gonzales on March 1, advised Travis that more than 300 reinforcements were on the way, and pleaded for the garrison to hold out until they arrived. The orignal letter, which has been lost, was reportedly found on or near Travis' body after the final battle."
abt same time, Matamoros Exp issues when reached San Patricio, 100 mi north of Matamoros, Johnson and Grant fought over whether to wait for reinforcements or push on knew there were Mex. forces coming towards them; Grant took abt 50 men(1/2 of garrison) and went west to look for horses Feb 27, 100 Mex cavalry took Johnson by surprise 16 killed, 34 prisoners, rest escaped and headed N to join FGannin at Goliad Mex lancers caught on 3rd, and all but 3 killed
this news reached S.A. Marc 3, and much celebrating 4 pm Marc 3, Col Duque's men arrived as reinforcements for MEx
p 48 Duque's men marched into Military Plaza in full dress uniforms - Aldama, Toluca, and Zapadores batt.; Travis est about 1000 men (de la Pena reported 846 men + addl officers, staff, and drivers)
that evening, Tex. left fort to attack Mex camped near a sugar mill, but retreated under heavy fire
midnight, Deaf Smith left with more dispatches and letters, incl a letter from Travis to the convention: "
I have so fortified this place, that the walls are generally proof against cannon-balls; and I shall continue to entrench on the inside, and strengthen the walls by throwing up dirt. At least two hundred shells have fallen inside our works without having injured a single man; indeed, we have been so fortunate as not to lose a man from any cause, and we have killed many of the enemy … I look to the colonies alone for aid; unless it arrives soon, I shall have to fight the enemy on his own terms. I will, however, do the best I can under the circumstances, and I feel confident that the determined valour and desperate courage, heretofore evinced by my men, will not fail them in the last struggle, and although they may be sacrificed to the vengeance of a Gothic enemy, the victory will cost the enemy so dear, that it will be worse for him than a defeat "
"So that people would know that the Alamo still held out, Travis also included in his dispatches that the garrison would fire the eighteen-pounder morning, noon, and night for as long as they were able."
Friday, Mar 4 Mex began bombarding early; Tex only shot one or two rounds in the afternoon (of all day) S.A. called meeting with senior officers to discuss an attack- many officers though that would be too costly (sources don't agree on which officers thought what) wanted to wait for heavy artillery to breach walls - pair of 12 lbers expected Mon, Mar 7
"According to Lieutenant de la Pena, the question of what to do with any captured prisoners also came up at the meeting. De la Pena stated that General Castrillon and Colonel Almonte argued against the no-quarter policy ordered by Santa Anna. The meeting eventually broke up without a firm decision having been made on this issue."
Cos had knowledge of much of the defenses since his men had done them during last siege he had left his wounded behind, and they told about other things th Tex had done locals also provided info
p 49 "Years later, Enrique recalled that on the first night of the siege, his father was among a party of defenders that sortied out of the Alamo and captured a Mexican soldier. Brought back as a prisoner, throughout the siege he interpreted the Mexican bugle calls, which helped to keep the defenders apprised of the enemy troop movements"
"
There were also several Mexican officers trained in engineering skills who were constantly assessing the enemy's defenses as well as directing the Mexican siege operations. Capt. (Acting Colonel) Ignacio Labastida drew an excellent sketch of both the Alamo and the town of San Antonio de Bexar that is often referred to as the “Mexican Engineer's Map.” Lieutenants Ignacio Berrospe and Juan Ordones also performed valuable engineering services.
"
Enrique Esparza claimed that SA offered to let Americans go with their lives, but the tejanos would be executed as rebels - but Todish thinks it unlikely that S.A. wanted to let any of them off
"On the evening of March 4, a Mexican woman from Bexar reportedly told Santa Anna that Travis had promised his men that they would either try to escape under cover of darkness or surrender if help did not come very soon. More than one historian, and even some of Santa Anna's own officers, have speculated that this information is what prompted him to push for an immediate assault rather than wait for his heavy siege guns. There would have been little glory in a bloodless victory, and glory is what Santa Anna craved above all else"
in the dark, Mex again inched closer
Mar 5 (Sat) pleasant day - temp between 50 and 68 degrees Mex artillery in N fired all day S.A. held a staff meeting; major assault next day "Lieutenant de la Pena reported that although a number of officers spoke against an assault when it was still in the planning stages, once the orders were given, all stood ready to carry them out. According to General Filisola, the leaders of the four attack columns were selected for their unquestioned loyalty."
battle orders drawn up by Gen. Juan Valentin Amador - great attn to detail seasoned veterans used mostly, with new recruits to remain in camp
"Although it was not stated directly in the orders, Santa Anna also saw to it that the presidial troops from Bexar did not take an active part in the actual fighting. In spite of whatever else he may have been, Santa Anna did not want to have relatives, friends, and neighbors fighting one another" - Francisco Esparza did not actually take an active part in assault
p 50 according to battle orders: fight to begin at 4 am on signal of bugle from N battery 1st column led by Cos (Permanent Battalion Aldama and first 3 active companies of San Luis) 2nd col - Col Francisco Duque (Gen. Manuel Fernandez Castrillon 2nd in command) - Active Batt, TOluca, 3 Active rifle Co from San Luis (not grenadier co) 3rd - Col Jose MAria Romero (Mariano de Salas 2nd); rifle cos from Matamoros and Jiminez Batt 4th 0 Jun Morales (Jose Minon 2nd) - scouting companies of Matamoros Jiminez and San Luis Batt
reserves - Sapper Batt and 5 Grenadier Cos from the battalions reserve force commanded by S.A
Grenadier and Scout companies would get 6 rounds of ammo per man (4 for rifleman) and 2 flints in reserve not wear cloacks, blankets, etc all shako chin-straps should be correctly worn, and all should war shoes or sandals untrained recruits in camp Gen. Joaquin Ramirez y Sesma's cavalry to guard camp and "keep anyone from deserting"
"Take this into consideration: Against the daring foreigners opposing us, the Honor of our Nation and Army is at stake. His Supreme Excellency, the General-in-Chief, expects each man to fulfill his duties and to exert himself to give his country a day of glory and satisfaction. He well knows how to reward those brave men who form The Army of Operations" = written by Juan Valentin Amador
p 51 whether Travis drew line or not, men would have had to make their own decisions by night
abt 10 pm on Mar 5, the artillery stopped firing - S.A. wanted the Tex to be lulled by sleep that night, 16-yr-old James Allen rode out with Travis's last plea
Mar 6 (Sunday) by 5 am, all Mex soldiers in place; some within 300 ft of Alamo 5:30 am, S.A. gave order for advance - some say were supposed to advance quietly for surprise other say advance signaled by trumpeter Jose Maria Gonzalez of Zapadores Batt "hen picked up by the massed bands of all of the units, stationed with the reserves"
"At any rate, it is known that enthusiastic soldados, unable to contain their nervous energy, soon began to shout, “Viva Santa Anna, viva la republica,” and whatever element of surprise the Mexicans had was quickly lost"
Mex in column, not line formation Cos moved to NW corner Duque directly to N wall Romero from E Morales to the S wall - weakest point supposedlyl the palisade was wooden on inside, but as actually a double wall, 6 ft wide, filled with dirt - artillery at rear of chapel and in lunette would catch attack force in crossfire in front of palisade was a ditch that was too wide to be jumped by horses fallen trees stacked in front of ditch at least one cannon mounted behind palisade - and it was defended by Crockett and his men probably, "Morales' main mission was to keep the riflemen pinned down so they could not help out at the main points of the assault, rather than to actually take the palisade"
"Other Mexican light infantrymen, skilled in the use of their Baker Rifles, moved as a screen ahead of the advancing columns, ready to pick off any defenders who dared to show themselves. Texian pickets stationed outside the walls, who were supposed to give the alarm, were surprised and quickly dispatched."
Capt John Baugh probably first to notice the Mex and raised the alarm ". As he ran past some of the Tejano defenders, Travis shouted “!No rendirse, muchachos!,” a call for no surrender"
eac Tex had 4 or 5 loaded guns ready to go their opening fire was deadly p 52 "Mexican army advanced in a French column formation, two companies wide, with the remainder of the assault force stretched out behind. Only the front two ranks could safely fire during the advance, and the tightly packed columns were perfect targets for both artillery and small-arms fire. The concentration of the Mexican forces allowed the Texians to also consolidate their much smaller force at the actual points of attack."
Tex artillery in one shot "took out half of the light infantry company of the Toluca Battalion, including its captain, José María Herrera. (De la Pena, 47) The Mexican gunners, on the other hand, had to remain silent throughout the battle, for fear of inflicting casualties on their own soldiers."
Mex front ranks wavered, but rear pushed them on when Mex reached walls they were safe from artillery; some Tex leaned over walls to fire directly into them; Travis died so, and as he emptied both barrels of his shotgun struck in head with a ball - fell down artillery ramp (oneof very first to die) Joe left and went back to the barracks, cont firing from a window there Joe said that Travis revived as Mex began comiong over wall and stabbed a Mex officer with his sword before dying
"Galba Fuqua, a sixteen-year-old volunteer from Gonzales, ran into the sacristy of the chapel where Susannah Dickinson was hiding with her daughter Angelina. Fuqua frantically tried to say something to Susannah, but was unable to speak because his jaw was shattered. After several unsuccessful attempts to get his message out, he bravely turned and ran back to the fighting."
at N end, Mex columns faltered and withdrew at S end, Morales's men sought shelter in huts near SW corner of the compound
after short break, Mex regrouped and attacked again, still unable to break in 3rd charge - this time to tune of Deguello
"Because of the crowded conditions in their long column formations, and the inexperience of many of the Mexican troops, some of the soldados fired into the backs of those in front of them, causing a significant number of casualties by “friendly fire.”"
"Colonel Duque, and probably many others, fell wounded, and were trampled in the confusion by their own men."
p 53 most of ladders did not end up in right places; those that did poorly made for 3rd strike, Col Romero's col shifted to right and joined Toluca Batt after heavy fire Cos, attacking from NW, shifted left to avoid fire, so all were massed at N wall S.A. saw this and sent the reserves to the same area
"The soldiers massed against the north wall found that they could claw their way up the timber reinforcements built by the Texians to strengthen the weakened section. Tradition holds that the first Mexican to reach the top of the Alamo's wall was Gen. Juan Amador" Cos's men abt same time used axes and crowbars to open N postern gate and also began climbing through gun ports Romero shifted attack to corrals on NE side
at S side, Morales moved away from lunette and gate and eventually siezed the 18 lb cannon
Mex troops soon pouring in from everywhere Tex followed prearranged plan and fell back into barracks and chapel "Lieutenant de la Pena described one Texian, whom he mistook for Travis, calmly loading and firing as he led the withdrawal from the north wall. This person may have been the adjutant, Capt. John Baugh, or one of the officers of the Greys"
Tex had previously put holes in the walls of the rooms so they could fire out them
"Capt. Almeron Dickinson came running into the sacristy of the chapel, where his wife Susannah and daughter Angelina were hiding. “Great God, Sue, the Mexicans are inside our walls! If they spare you, save my child,” he cried." Dickinson had his men turn their gun and fire into the Mex in the courtyard
Crockett and his men turned to defend interiro campo santo wall between low barracks and convento - hand to hand combat
"The Alamo's quartermaster, Eliel Melton, and an unknown number of men, perhaps as many as twenty, decided to try to break through the Mexican charge. They leapt over the wall and made a mad dash for safety. This is exactly what the cavalry was waiting for, and one by one the Texians were cut down by Mexican sabers and lances. Several escaped immediate death, and some may have escaped entirely. One man tried to hide under a bush, but was quickly discovered and shot. Another hid under a bridge over the river, but was found by a Mexican woman doing her wash. He, too, was quickly killed when she summoned the soldiers."
p 54 in close combat, Tex advantage of marksmanship gone Mex bayonet had longer range than Bowie knife or tomahawl
"Jim Bowie's sisters-in-law, Juana Alsbury and Gertrudis Navarro, had taken refuge in one of the rooms along the west wall, near the eighteen-pounder in the southwest bastion. They opened the door to their room, hoping to be spared because they were women, and Gertrudis had a baby at her breast. When discovered, they were threatened by the soldados, and a member of the garrison named Mitchell (it is unknown if it was Edwin Mitchell or Napoleon Mitchell) was bayonetted while trying to defend them. An unknown young Tejano was also bayonetted in their presence. Although their personal possessions were stolen, they were not harmed physically. Interestingly, at one point during the battle, they were approached by a Mexican officer who was looking for the main gate. Apparently he was part of Morales' column, trying to help his comrades find their way into the Alamo."
Lt Jose Maria Torres of Zapadores Batt say a Tex flag flying over one building; he and Lt Damasio Martinez decided to tear it down; 3 others had already died tring same tong; Mart killed, but Torres managed ot tear it down and raise Mex glaf before being mortally shot
"Once all of the defenders were driven from the courtyard, they had to be dislodged from the various rooms in the barracks and the chapel where they had taken refuge. This was the scene of some of the fiercest of the fighting"
finally, only a few men left in the chapel - Dickinson, Bonham, and Esparza; prob among last to die
Sue said that she saw Crockett's body and his cap in area in front of the chapel - near where he was defending
"There is also a possibility that Crockett was one of about a half dozen captured prisoners who were brought before Santa Anna after the battle. Supposedly, they had been promised quarter by General Castrillon. Santa Anna, however, was furious that they had been spared, and ordered them executed on the spot. Whether or not Crockett was part of this group is widely debated, and it is the authors' position that there is not enough proof to resolve the issue one way or the other. "
p 55 By 6:30 am battle over Joe and Brigido Guerrero only soldiers alive Sue shot in calf, but not serious
"Santa Anna ordered the alcalde of San Antonio, Francisco Ruiz, to show him the bodies of Bowie, Crockett, and Travis. He then ordered Ruiz to gather up all of the rebels' bodies and burn them. There was but one exception. Presidial Cavalryman Francisco Esparza was allowed to claim his brother Gregorio's body and give it a Christian burial."
Mar 7, S.A. asked to meet with survivors offered to adobt Angelina and pay for her education in Mexico City; Sue refused - no offer made to Mrs. Alsbury for her baby
Tejanos allowed to return to Bexar; Joe and Dickinsons, esc by Ben, Col Almonte's black cook were sent to Anglo settlements to deliver warning
"Speaking to Capt. Fernando Urizza, Santa Anna remarked, “It was but a small affair.” (Lord: A Time to Stand, 167) Lt. Col. José Juan Sanchez Navarro had a different view. He remarked that “with another such victory as this, we'll go to the devil.” "
est that 60 - 2000 mex died; with 250-300 wounded, many of whom later died b/c no medical care; reasonable est - 400-600 killed and wounded (1/3 of those involved) "a tremendous casualty rate by any standards"
p 67 SA now intended to crush rest of rebellion Urrea would go to Goliad with 1400 men Gaonoa would take 700 to W on the B to get the gov't Ramirez y Sesma and 700 would do across central part of Texas - Gonzales, San Felipe and Harrisburg
2 armies left - Fannin at Goliad, and Houston, who had 400 men waiting at Gonzales on March 11 when Houston heard from Sue, he advised all the civilians to evacuate, and burned the town behind him as they headed E
Mar 17, W on B got word that Gaono was at Batrop, 60 miles way Gov't left for Harrisburg, 70 mi southeast
Mar 17, Houston and "accompanying refugess" rested at the Colorado River; ordered Fannin to abandon Goliad and go to Victoria (NE of Goliad) to protect Matagorda Bay - if that was too dangerous, Fannin should come to Colorado and join rest of army
"Finally, Urrea's advance guard appeared outside the Fort Defiance walls. They were driven back by a troop of volunteer cavalry. The next morning, under the cover of a heavy fog, the garrison set out across the open prairie.
Not far from the heavily wooded banks of Coleto Creek, about ten miles from Goliad, Fannin's force was stopped by Mexican troops.
"
p 68 "next morning Fannin's men found themselves ringed by the main Mexican force, now equipped with artillery. Faced with the choices of surrender, fighting to the death, or trying to fight his way to the nearby woods leaving his wounded behind, Fannin surrendered."
350 Tex marche dback to GOliad and held prisoner in the chapel for 1 week; very small - only 1/4 of them could sit at a time "had the walls not been so high, the prisoners might have died of asphyxiation"
Mex high command arguing about what to do with them Palm Sunday (Mar 27), Fannin's men marched a short distance away, shot down, and bayonetted; a few escaped the wounded "were dragged from their beds and killed in the yard"
"Fannin, too badly wounded to march out, was helped from his room by a Texan medical “assistant” who was spared. The ill-fated commander offered money and a watch to a Mexican officer in exchange for a promise that he would be shot in the body, not the head, and that he would be properly buried. The officer accepted the items, agreed to Fannin's requests, then stood by as the blindfolded Fannin was shot in the head and his body burned."
not everyone killed - 80 newly arrived volunteers from US, who were captured without weapons were spared, and 30 others, incl American doctors who had been impressed into helping Mex, as well as medical assistants and skilled laborers (doctors sent to San ANtonio to care for soldiers wounded in Alamo - no attention before that) Senora Francisca Alvarez (wife of an officer) and several other officers and enlisted men saved several men
"Back on the Colorado River, Houston had finally seen the enemy. Encamped on the east bank, the Texians had spent five nervous days two miles and a swollen river away from Ramirez y Sesma's force. During the week, Ramirez y Sesma had been reinforced, and his army now numbered about 1,200 men. Houston also had been joined by more volunteers, and he now commanded approximately 700 men. On March 25, Houston learned how uncertain the future of the Revolution had become. He received a letter from President Burnet informing him of the government's flight and ordering him to Harrisburg to protect the Legislature. About the same time, a refugee from Fannin's debacle at Coleto Creek brought news of the surrender. Houston grimly told his aide that they would never again see Fannin or his men. Angering the men of his command who wanted to cross the river and avenge Travis and Fannin, Houston gave orders to abandon the camp on the Colorado and march east"
Runaway Scrape - remains of Tex Army retreated before Mex army "Criticized by almost everyone at the time, Houston's tactics today are seen as a classic “strategic withdrawal.” Houston fell back to Austin's town of San Felipe, left a small defensive force there and sent another south along the Brazos to Fort Bend, then took the main army north to Groce's Ferry in the Brazos bottomlands. Houston told his grumbling troops there was corn there, and they could whip an enemy force ten times their size. Once there, Houston finally had a chance to organize his army into companies and regiments, and begin some rudimentary drills."
early April, SA joined Ramirez y Sesma at the COlorado River found San Felipe empty and burned
"While Ramirez y Sesma's men were caught up in a firefight with the rearguard of the Texian force that had fled San Felipe de Austin, Santa Anna issued orders for the three columns to rendezvous at Fort Bend, which the Texians had already abandoned. He then set off with 750 infantry and about 50 cavalry to try to surprise the government at Harrisburg. On April 15 the dictator led a cavalry patrol into the town, only to find that the government had fled to New Washington, about twenty miles away. Interviewing the editors of The Telegraph and Texas Register, Santa Anna also learned that Houston was leaving Groce's Ferry and heading for Lynchburg. Santa Anna was certain that the end was near"
Houstoun learned of Fannin's fate at Groce's Ferry
p 69 Tex anxious to avenge Fannin and Travis "Just after the middle of April, Houston learned about Santa Anna's personal detachment and his plan to take the Texian government prisoner. The Texian commander called together his army of about 800 men and told them the time had come to march again. If they could get between Santa Anna's strike force and the rest of his army, they could end the war. And so, the Texian army set off for Harrisburg"
at New Washington, Tex govt just escaped SA; Mex army rested a few days - possible because of daliance with EMily Mogran "The dictator planned to be reinforced and then confront Houston in or near Lynchburg. He sent for General Cos, who was at Fort Bend with Ramirez y Sesma's army, to bring 500 reinforcements and meet him near Lynchburg, between the Buffalo Bayou and the river of Saint Hyacinth — San Jacinto in Spanish."
night of April 19, Tex army crossed Vince's Bridge - one of only two fords between NEw Wash and rest of Texas morning of April 20, moved Tex army to wooded area near Lynchburg Ferry, the other point S.A arrived later on April 20 - tried to lure Tex into battle into open, but then withdrew and made camp
Tex expected to strike at dawn April 21, but Houston said no, and left orderes that he should be able to sleep until 8 am "At about 9:00 A.M., General Cos arrived with his reinforcements. They had just made a forced march from Fort Bend, and since there was no movement in the Texian camp, they rested. Houston ordered Deaf Smith to go and burn Vince's Bridge, ensuring that Santa Anna would receive no more aid"
"At about noon, during an officers' call, Houston's subordinates advised against attacking the Mexican encampment across open ground. Houston laughed and dismissed them. At 3:30 P.M., Houston gave the order "
MEx camp quiet - everyone resting in the heat 4:30 pm the Tex moved out; silent until 200 yds from Mex camp; then at Houston's signal the two Tex. cannon, known as Twin Sisters, fired cavalry under MB Lamar rode out toward camp
"The Texians ignored Houston's orders to fire and advance and just began running pell mell toward the enemy, firing and reloading at will, shouting “Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad!” Suddenly, Deaf Smith appeared, riding across the Texian front and yelling that Vince's Bridge was down. For the Mexicans, any hope of escape or reinforcement was gone." during battle, 3 horses shot from under Houston and he wounded in ankle by musket ball
according to Houston, battle lasted 18 min after cannon fired "That may be, but it is almost certain the killing went on much longer. The Texians, flushed with victory and determined to avenge the massacres at the Alamo and Goliad, slaughtered the Mexicans with little regard to age or condition"
"General Castrillon, who allegedly had tried to save some captured Alamo defenders, was shot down unarmed after an unsuccessful attempt to rally a defense at a field piece. Drummer boys and wounded soldados were brutally cut down, many of them crying “Me no Alamo!” One Texan volunteer, ordered to stop killing by an officer, replied, “Colonel Wharton, if Jesus Christ were to come down and order me to quit shooting Santanistas, I wouldn't do it, sir!” (Time Life: The Texans, 140) Of the wanton killing, Houston reportedly proclaimed in disgust, “Gentlemen, I applaud your bravery, but damn your manners!” and left the field to rest his shattered ankle. (Hardin: Texian Iliad, 214) "
"At the end of the killing, about half the Mexican force was dead, the other half held as prisoners. Among the missing was Santa Anna, who had mounted a horse and fled at the start of the battle. The next morning he was found by a Texan patrol,"
p 70 "into the Texian camp, his identity was revealed when his loyal troops began shouting, “El Presidente!” Led to Houston, with his courage bolstered by a dose of opium from his captured medicine box, the dictator declared, “That man may consider himself born to no common destiny who has conquered the Napoleon of the West. And now it remains for him to be generous to the vanquished.”
“You should have remembered that at the Alamo,” was Houston's reply "
Houston spared S.A. , who then ordered the rest of the Army back to MExico (even though Mex army STILL outnumbered Tex)
"The political instability in Mexico that had led to the Texas Revolution continued. Army officers and politicians blamed each other for the debacle. Santa Anna fell from power, then returned.
There were unsuccessful Mexican attempts to retake the lost state, and ill-fated Texan invasions of Mexican territory. The Nueces Strip, between the Nueces and the Rio Grande, became a virtual noman's land, a battleground fought over by Mexican outlaws and Texas Rangers. Many of the outlaws were displaced Tejanos, driven from their homes by recent immigrants or Texians who had forgotten, or chose to ignore, the contributions of the Tejanos to Texas' independence "
"For the Tejanos, the years after San Jacinto were tragic and enraging. The attitude of many in Texas toward the Tejanos was summed up by Frederick Law Olmstead: “Mexicans were regarded in a somewhat unchristian tone, not as heretics or heathen to be converted with flannel and tracts, but rather as vermin to be exterminated…. White folks and Mexicans were never made to live together, anyhow, and the Mexicans had no business here. They were getting so impertinent, and were so well protected by the laws, that the Americans would just have to get together and drive them out of the country"
p 73 "There is no such thing as a complete and accurate list of all of the valiant defenders of the Alamo" "Although there is reasonable supposition for everything that we list, much of the information will be presented as “maybe” or “could have been,” simply because absolute proof is lacking."
"The first attempt to document the names of the defenders of the Alamo was in 1837, when the Texas Adjutant General's Office began compiling muster rolls of all those who served in the Texas Revolution"
" In the early 1930s, Amelia Williams compiled information for her doctoral dissertation entitled “A Critical Study of the Siege of the Alamo and the Personnel of Its Defenders.” Although dated, and in some respects inaccurate, Williams' study has served as the basis for most Alamo defender lists since then "
"The generally accepted number of defenders killed at the Alamo now stands at 189. In addition, there are the noncombatants, as well as the soldiers who survived, primarily because they left as couriers before the final battle"
"It is probable that research currently being conducted by Texas historian Thomas Ricks Lindley, when made public, will drastically change the list of defenders killed at the Alamo. While Lindley's efforts may result in the removal of some names from the current list, he expects that the final total will be about 257 defenders killed, rather than 189" Lindley looking at ballot from Feb 1 elections for candidates to the convention he also thinks there was a second wave of reinforcements of
p 74 abt 50 men on March 4 "Col. Juan Almonte said that 250 Texians were killed, and Lt. Col. José Sanchez Navarro claimed that there were 257" "This large increase is not to be verified yet, though. Caution must still be exercised, for other eyewitness evidence is contradictory. Francisco Ruiz, the alcalde (mayor) of San Antonio de Bexar, wrote:
“The men burnt numbered one hundred and eighty two. I was an eyewitness …” (Chariton: 100 Days, 327)
"
"It is not an easy task to assign all of the defenders of the Alamo to a specific military unit at the time of the siege. As with most revolutionary armies, the Army of the Republic of Texas was in a constant state of flux. Individuals came and went, and whole units were absorbed into other units or just disappeared from the table of organization. Many defenders had served in several units by the time they reached the Alamo. Regular Texas Army at Alam: 3 indivs with regular comissions: Travis, lt col of Texas Cavalry Bonham, 2nd lt of Texas Cavalry Dickinson, capt of Texas Artillery Companies of reg Texa sArmy Seguin cavalry Forsythe cavalry Permanent Volunteers Capt Wm Blazeby's infantry co - had been NO Greys and San Antonio Greys Capt Wm Carey's artillery company Bowie's volunteer co
p 75 some say there was a nother distinct unit, Capt Robert White's infantry
Volunteer Auxiliary Corps Capt Wm Harrison's company of Tennessee Mounted VOlunteers
Militia (Texas Militia Companies (MIL) were organized in each municipality, with the original purpose of defending the colonists against Indian attack.) Gonzales Ranging Company of Mounted VOlunteers
p 88 list of defenders killed = 187; 2 sons of Wolf killed - 189
p 138 "The narrative of José Enrique de la Pena, of the Zapadores Battalion, is one of the most controversial documents to come out of the Texas Revolution. While there are some serious questions about its authenticity, a number of respected historians and authors believe it is legitimate"
p 156 see explanation of equipment at the Alamo
p 187 "there can be little doubt that most Americans have probably formed many of their opinions on what occurred at the Alamo not from books, but from the various movies made about the battle. Almost every generation since the advent of film has produced at least one movie about the Alamo" see Frank Thompson's book Alamo Movies
p 188 "For years, while under contract to Republic Pictures, John Wayne had been developing a film on the Alamo. "
"After years of being put off by Herb Yates, head of Republic Studios, Wayne finally went independent so that he could begin making his dream film on his own. He had already been working on ideas for the film at Republic, and a partial script had to be left behind."
Herbert J. Yates had the script completed and hired Frank Lloyd to direct; called the Last Command, it featured Bowie as central character "In many ways this is the most ambitious Alamo film, going into the background of the Texas Revolution in some detail, but it has a lot of problems. Hayden virtually sleepwalks through the film as Bowie, and there is a ridiculous romantic subplot involving a Mexican girl who is infatuated with him. Despite these faults, many Alamo buffs and historians regard this as the best of the theatrical Alamo film"
"When he left Republic, Wayne's scriptwriter, James Edward Grant, was forced to leave his first draft of the Alamo script behind, which certainly accounts for the many similarities in characters and incidents between The Last Command and The Alamo" "there is not a single scene in The Alamo which corresponds to an historically verifiable incident. Despite the hours of research Grant said he did (he claimed to have read over 100 books on the Alamo), the story is basically made out of whole cloth. Eminent Texas historians J. Frank Dobie and Lon Tinkle were both on the set frequently as historical advisors, but when they saw the finished film, they demanded that their names be removed from the credits. " score by Dimitri Tiomkin received an Oscar nom last scale set,called Alamo Village, pretty accurate and used for many movies since
p 189 "Originally, Wayne had wanted to play Houston himself as a cameo, but was forced to take a starring role in order to get financing" Wayne then played Crockett
p 190 "John Wayne's The Alamo was the last cinematic word on the subject for many years. Then, in the early to mid-1980s, as the 150th anniversary of the Texas Revolution approached, several projects of varying quality appeared. The made-for-TV movie, The Alamo: Thirteen Days to Glory, based on Lon Tinkle's book, was probably the least successful effort" starred Alec Baldwin as Travis, JAmes Arness as Bowie, Brian Keith as Crockett and Raul Julia as SAnta Anna "Filmed on a very tight budget, with some stock scenes repeated to an extreme, and some hilarious invented incidents, Thirteen Days to Glory is probably the most disappointing Alamo movie, at least since the early talkies"
"Three other TV productions have been more successful. Seguin!, made for PBS, was a revisionist view of the Tejano hero, but featured strong performances by A. Martinez and Henry Darrow as Juan and Don Erasmo Seguin respectively. Interestingly, although the film championed the ill-fated Tejanos and was somewhat hard on the Anglos, it presented one of the most totally evil Santa Annas ever, played by Edward James Olmos."
"Unfortunately, what may be the best theatrical film ever made about the Alamo is also the most difficult to see. Alamo … The Price of Freedom, which shows several times a day at a theater across the street from the Alamo, was filmed in the IMAX format, requiring a special facility to show it. Made with only a few professional actors, the film relies heavily on historical reenactors for its authentic look."
"
The excellent screenplay was written by Keith Merrill and George A. McAlister. Merrill also produced and directed the film, while McAlister served as executive producer. One of Hollywood's finest historical producers, Ray Herbeck, Jr., a reenactor himself, served as associate producer. Texas historian Kevin R. Young acted as technical advisor and also served as director of the IMAX Theater for many years after the film's debut. The film also received support from the custodians of the Alamo, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, with their then director, Bernice Strong, acting as historical advisor
" only runs 45 min and "lacks dramatic depth. It also lacks the fictional padding that has afflicted so many longer versions"
p 191 "an attention to detail and intensity that are remarkable, Alamo … The Price of Freedom is probably as close to being at the Alamo as most of us would want to get"
p 194 "As in so many other areas, the saga of the Alamo has inspired a significant body of songs and music. Some of it, like the song “The Green Leaves of Summer,” has enjoyed a popularity well beyond its connection to the Alamo. It is virtually impossible to compile a complete list of Alamo-related music from all conceivable sources" "The Ballad of Davy Crockett", by Tennessee Ernie Ford on released in 1955 spent 16 weeks on country charts, up to No 4
p 196 Marty Robbin's version of The Ballad of the Alamo in 1960 spent 13 weeks on pop charts, peaked at 34
p 198 "In the years since the Battle of the Alamo, the mission-turned-fortress has been revered as a shrine of freedom by many" After Alamo fell, MEx. troops garrisoned there After San Jac, they tore down most of the walls, filled in the trenches, and burned the palisade that Crockett defended artillery and ammo dumped in river
several sections of barracks living quarters for local families - others carried off stones and rock for new homes
By the 1845 Mex-Amer War, only the chapel, long barracks and low barracks were still standing US armyused as supply depot
"Meanwhile, the Catholic Church and the City of San Antonio were involved in a dispute over ownership of the chapel. Despite this controversy, the army began renovating the old church. Eventually, the Texas Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Catholic Church, but rather than try to reconsecrate the battle-scarred building, the church contented itself with collecting a monthly rent from the army."
1849 the "hump or gable, which today is the most recognizable smbol of the Alamo, was added"
Civil War, Confederate Army used Alamo as supply dept, then US Army again got it until 1879, when Ft Sam Houston built
p 199 by this time, N and West walls gone and remaining rooms along south wall were razed after army left, RCC sold the long barracks to Honore Grenet, who also leased the chapel; heturned one corner of the long barracks into a museum
1882, he died and long barracks sold to firm Hugo and Schmeltzer; Texas bought the chapel
at turn of century "earnest. An unsuccessful attempt to purchase the Hugo and Schmeltzer building was made by the San Antonio Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. The chapter was headed by Adina de Zavala, whose grandfather, Lorenzo de Zavala, had been a Tejano patriot and the first vice-president of the Republic. This attempt to save the Alamo was countered by a proposal to raze the structure and replace it with a hotel. Perhaps surprisingly, many Texans were in favor of this proposal. But before anything was done to destroy the historic landmark, a wealthy rancher's daughter, Clara Driscoll, came forward and offered to buy the buildings with her own money. Chagrined, the Texas Legislature bought the property, then appointed the Daughters guardians of the site"
" 1913 the remnants of the second floor of the convent building were removed under questionable circumstances. The reason given was that the second-floor ruins hindered people's view of the shrine, as the chapel was now called. While the shrine became a major tourist destination and a source of patriotic emotion, and while new buildings and monuments were erected, the long barracks/convent ruins became overgrown with flora and suffered from a benign neglect. In time a museum and gift shop building, a library, and memorial gardens were added to the grounds, and a huge statue, the Alamo Cenotaph, was erected opposite the convent. Finally, during the 1968 Hemisfair, a roof was added to the ruins of the convent, and a museum tracing the history of the mission was established. Critics point out that the so-called Long Barracks Museum in no way resembles the original structure. Although this is true, it has saved another part of the original compound from complete obliteration"
p 200 Jose Enrique de la Pena was an officer of the Mexican army who severely criticized Santa Anna's conduct of the Texas campaign following the return of the army to Mexico. In Mexico in the 1950s, a book appeared that was accepted by both Mexican and American historians as de la Pena's long lost narrative, originally published but then quickly suppressed in the nineteenth century. Its authenticity was unquestioned for years, until Long's book caused some Crockett supporters to begin an indepth analysis of the Mexican accounts. As a result of this probing, inconsistencies in de la Pena's account led some to theorize that the work was a forgery. In 1994, Alamo buff and historian Bill Groneman published Defense of a Legend, outlining his reasons for suspecting the Mexican officer's account was a fake. Others came to the defense of the de la Pena account, and the battle is far from over.
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