Alamo Tours Remind Texans About Their Glorious History

By Marci Glover


The epic battle against the Mexicans and a small band of brave besieged defenders outside San Antonio in Texas in 1936 remains one of the finest examples of courage and self sacrifice in the history of the United States. David Crockett, Jim Bowie and the rest of the handful of defenders died there when the battle finally ended on 6 March of that year. Every year more than two and a half million people undertake Alamo tours.

The battle has been a crossroads in Texan history and remains so to this day. It is here that Spanish colonization first took hold. However, most visitors simply want to visit the place where a mere handful of brave defenders stood firm for thirteen days against the powerful army of General de Santa Anna. Their death remains as a symbol of bravery and courage to this day.

This historic site is easily accessible. San Antonio is one of the ten biggest cities in the United States so it is possible to fly there, to go by train or bus or to simply drive there. Directions and traveling advice can be obtained from the official website, thealamo.org. It is also possible to book a variety of guided tours, including exclusive tours for individuals or small groups.

Entrance to the facility is free of charge. The management is of the opinion that anybody must be able to experience this unique site. Of course, the maintenance and operation of the site requires extensive funding. This is covered by donations and special support programs. The society Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Texas General Land Office also provide valuable support.

At the heart of the site is a church that now serves as a shrine to those who died there. This church was where some of the defenders made their last stand and where they died. Visitors are asked to be respectful. The church contains flags from the countries of origin of all those that formed part of the defense. The building itself features a distinctive architectural hump and a fine ornamental facade.

Visitors should not miss the opportunity to view the excellent exhibits in the Long Barrack Museum. This museum is housed in the oldest building on the site. It dates back three hundred years. It is also here that the most ferocious fighting took place, especially after the outer walls were breached by the enemy. Visitors to the museum can get an excellent introduction to the history of the battle by watching a short film from the History Channel.

Visitors are required to behave in a manner that behooves a shrine to Texas liberty. Obscene or offensive clothing is not allowed. Cell phones and cameras may not be used in any of the buildings. Visitors are even required to talk in lowered voices and men may not enter whilst wearing a hat. Nobody may touch any exhibit or even the walls.

History often serves as a reminder of great deeds, extraordinary courage and self sacrifice. The Alamo is one such place where Texans, indeed all Americans can honor the efforts their forebears have made to ensure that they are at liberty today. Freedom always has a price and those that paid it deserve remembrance and honor.




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