We took a spring break trip to San Antonio – one of our favorite vacation destinations. We love spending time on the Riverwalk. I also, have always been intrigued with the Alamo.
William Barrett Travis who led the band of brave men who gave their lives there was an interesting historical figure. Some believe that he left Alabama and fled to the new territory because he had killed a man who was having an affair with his wife. Regardless, of the circumstances he showed incredible courage in a turning point in history resulting in what would later be the state of Texas.Travis wrote several letters from the Alamo. The following is perhaps the most famous.
Fellow citizens & compatriots
--I am beseiged, by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna -- I have sustained a continual Bombardment & cannonade for 24 hours & have not lost a man -- The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken -- I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, & our flag still waves proudly from the walls -- I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism, & every thing dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch -- The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily & will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country
VICTORY OR DEATH
William Barret Travis
Lt. Col. Comdt.
P.S. The Lord is on our side -- When the enemy appeared in sight we had not three bushels of corn -- We have since found in deserted houses 80 or 90 bushels & got into the walls 20 or 30 head of Beeves --
Travis was one of the first to die in the battle that took place in the predawn hours on March 6, 1836. He died of a gunshot wound to the head as he took his post on the cannon platform of the northeast corner of the fortress.
He was 26 years old.