This day in Texas history

[6PAK2GO]

February 24, 1836: William Barret Travis issues a plea for aid for the besieged defenders of the Alamo.

To The People of Texas and
All Americans In The World --
February 24, 1836

Fellow citizens & compatriots --

I am beseiged, 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 Travis
Lt. 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

[60]

[mjUTfan]

I remember reading some stuff written by people in the Alamo, and, how cold it was. They were talking about how some of the Mexicans had frozen to death in their march to San Antonio.

[Mesa]

you do know what Davie Crockett(sp? told Jim Bowie as the Mexicans were coming over the walls?

Davie responded: i didn't know we were roffing today.

[mjUTfan]

Beseiged by thousands of Mexicans...hmmmm, sounds like Texas in 2010?