San Antonio

In order to continue our quest to avoid the snows of winter, we are now in San Antonio (the second most populated city in Texas). The early 1600's Spanish missionaries named this settlement after Saint Anthony of Padua because it was founded on St. Anthony's feast day. No trip here would be complete without a visit to the 1836 battlefield known as The Alamo - one of five missions that comprise the Mission National Historic Park.

thealamo.org

While we were thrilled to be able to visit this "Shrine of Texas Liberty", it was surprising to see how little of the original complex still remains and how commercialized the surrounding area has become. A few points to know: In its 300 year history, the Alamo existed under 6 flags of independent nations and served as a garrison for 5 different armies; among the defenders of the mission San Antonio de Valero were immigrants from six foreign countries (Scotland, Ireland, England, Germany, Spain, and Denmark) because the government had offered land grants to anyone who settled there. Thus, they felt they had to protect their land from Santa Anna's dictatorship. We had a wonderful time.

Unique local fauna seen along many streets.

Part of the historic Riverwalk.

Located in downtown San Antonio is the "Homeless Jesus" sculpture by Timothy Schmaltz.

The historic 1918 Burns building, located at one corner of the Alamo complex.

The mission San Antonio de Valero, aka the Alamo.

According to legend, Lt. Col. William Travis drew this line in front of the mission church, to see who would stand with him to defend the Alamo.

One of the Texan re-enactors regaling us with lots of details about the 1836 battle.

There also were re-enactors dressed in period Mexican military uniforms.

Model of the original mission complex: the large rectangular walled area in front of the mission church is now a roadway and commercial district.

Miniature model of the 1836 battle scene.

Part of the original irrigation ditch that supplied water to the Alamo, now populated by at least 20 Koi fish.

We really were there!

Nearby is the Menger Hotel where Teddy Roosevelt recruited members for the Rough Riders.