A Texas Shrine

In the winter of eighteen thirty-six the historic siege began. The Mexicans went three thousand strong with Santa Anna in command. The Texians defending the mission numbered one hundred eighty-two lead by Travis, Bowie, and Crockett, they vowed to see it through. The Texians expected to be reinforced, but reinforcements never came. In order to stall the Mexican advance, they decided to stay just the same. Knowing they would probably not survive, they never considered to flee; they selflessly made this sacrifice so fellow Texians could live free. Legend says Travis took his sword and drew a line in the sand; knowing that it meant certain death, the rebels crossed it to a man. Whether the legend is true or not, cannot be verified, but what we know from the history books is all the Texians died. The assault commenced on the thirteenth day before the light of the sun. Colonel Travis shouted, “Give ‘em hell” as the battle was begun. The greatly outnumbered Texians fought with valor and pride. They bravely stood their ground, but ‘twas a mere hour till the last one died. Today the site in San Antone is viewed as hallowed ground; the spirit of the heroes that died there can be felt in the air all around. The old mission is viewed with great respect by all Texans down the line, and all will tell you that the Alamo is a truly a Texas shrine.