On February 24, 1836 the commander of the mission in San Antonio wrote the following letter. He knew that the chances of leaving the walls of the Alamo alive were next to none. He chose to buy precious time for Texas. Travis and the men of the Alamo gave up their lives and dreams to fight for the future of Texas and freedom. The history of Texas is one of Strong independent peoples that cherished freedom. I hope that independent spirit is still alive today and that the people of Texas will always fight to be free. Remember the Alamo, Wild Ed
Fellow citizens & compatriots
I am besieged, 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 TravisLt. 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
Travis
2 comments:
How would someone like Travis be taken today? I wish we still had men of his metal and not cowards afraid to offend, with hands out awaiting what they think they are owed instead of earning what they deserve.
I have to say just reading that makes me want to grab my rifle and head for Texas.
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