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The Alamo
Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo) was established in 1718 as the city's first mission. On the east side of Alamo Plaza is the famous spot in Texas where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna's army which sealed it in lexicon of U.S. history.
History
In the 18th century, the Spanish church established five Catholic missions along the San Antonio River, primarily to extend its dominion northward from Mexico, but also to convert the native population. What remains of the largest concentration of missions in North America provides an interesting look into Texas' history.
The first mission established in San Antonio, the Alamo (San Antonio de Valero) served as a way station between east Texas and Mexico. It was already 100 years old when it fell in the notorious Battle of the Alamo and became an inspiration and a motivation for liberty during the Texas Revolution.
For 13 days in 1836, around 200 Texas defenders held the Alamo from over one thousand of General Santa Anna's troops. The defenders, William Travis, Jim Bowie, and Davy Crockett, would die fighting overwhelming odds for freedom.
Today
Fifty years ago, the Alamo made its way onto the big screen and into the international consciousness as never before. What John Wayne's historic rendering of Davy Crockett may have lacked in some historical accuracy was more than made up for in impact, to such a degree that nowadays it's hard to tell fact from fiction.
The curvaceous façade and the legend behind it have made their mark on the international consciousness in ways that range from the iconic to the comic; as a symbol of heroism, courage and sacrifice, and, as is the case with any symbol, a target for satire.
Alamo Historian and Curator Bruce Winders says "It's a blessing because people remember the Alamo. We like them to remember it for the history, but sometimes they remember it for something that's irreverent and out of context."
Getting There
300 Alamo Plaza,
San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 225-1391 x34
Fax: (210) 354-3602
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Copyright (c) 2011 by City of San Antonio. Any party wishing to reproduce content displayed on this website must obtain the express written permission of the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau. Phone: (800) 447-3372
