S I G H T S tj|tl|in|ca|st
S I G H T S
tj|tl|in|ca|st

T H E   A L A M O

San Antonio, Texas

Monday, November 15, 2004

Sight: #38

Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Hours: 9am to 5:30pm Mon-Sat, 10am-5:30pm on Sun, Fri-Sat to 7pm during Jun-Jul-Aug.

Admission: Free!

Phone: (210) 225-1391

Link: Official Website

Rating:   (5 max)


Visited by 2.5 million people a year, the old mission complex is often referred to as "The Alamo." Comprising 4.2 acres, in addition to the mission itself, the well-tended grounds offer a quiet, pastoral setting for those looking to catch some rest and reflection.

The old mission has a well-storied history. Founded by the Spanish and constructed in 1744, its first use was as a Christian mission. Named Mission San Antonio de Valero, the complex was the first in a series of missions established along the nearby San Antonio River. In 1793, the mission was abandoned and remained vacant for 10 years, afterwhich, Spanish soldiers used it as a military barracks until surrendering it to rebel Texan forces in 1835. The Battle of the Alamo started 2 months later. Stretching out over a period of 13 days, the stand-off ended when a horde of Mexican soldiers stormed the Texan holdouts.

Left in ruins after the battle, the complex stood in limbo for many, many years. Some folks wished to raze all remaining structures, others wished to preserve the old mission due to its historical significance. In the end, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) won out and were tasked with its reconstruction and restoration. The DRT currently administrates the complex and charges nothing for admission. It receives no tax money from local, state, or federal government coffers. All operating expenses are paid for through private donations.

Come join me as I venture into the old mission complex. As they say, "Remember the Alamo!" Let's get touring so we can create something to remember today.

Description & Pics


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