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 that took place there remains one of the best remembered in the history of the USA. It is still regarded as a crossroad in the fight for freedom and liberty. In this instance it was a fight against colonization. Visitors go there to pay homage to the courage of those few that were willing to sacrifice their lives for the ultimate American dream of freedom.

The official website, thealamo.org, provides detailed information on how visitors can get there. San Antonio is among the ten biggest cities in the United States and therefore boasts excellent air ports and motorways. Visitors can go by train, bus or air if they do not want to drive. The website can also be used to book personal tours. There is even a night tour available.

Even in this times of financial instability the site can still be visited free of charge. Individual donations, as well as the support from organizations such as the Texas General Land Office and The Daughters of the Republic of Texas ensure that site is well maintained and that operational cost is covered. The free entry policy ensures that anybody will be able to experience a visit to this unique and historic site.

No tour can be complete without a visit to the church in the center of the site. The building was originally intended to serve as the principal church of the mission, but it never was completed. It is here were some of the small band made the last stand. The church features flags depicting the countries of origin and the names of all the defenders. The building now serves as a shrine and visitors are required to remain respectful.

The oldest building on the site, almost three hundred years old, is home to the Long Barracks Museum. When the outer walls were breached during the final battle, some of the survivors retreated here and this is where some of the fiercest fighting took place. Today it features a fascinating collection of exhibits called A Story Bigger Than Texas. Visitors can also view a short film on the battle itself.

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.

The Alamo will inspire every visitor. History is shaped by the bravery and sacrifices of real heroes. Those that follow have an obligation to honor their memories and their deeds. Only by remembering can one truly appreciate the liberty that grew from those deeds.




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