The Alamo really is an astonishing place. I have to admit that I went just because I was "supposed" to go and see it since I was in San Antonio. I knew it had something to do with Texas independence, but that was about it. I was pretty sure that they lost the battle so I didn't understand the importance. In fact, the men fighting for independence against an oppressive Mexican General, Santa Anna did lose the fight. But it was a victory in defeat. Once others heard of the injustice done at the Alamo, people from all over the states came to Texas to help fight for freedom.

Over 100 years before the fighting began and when San Antonio was part of Spanish territory, the Alamo was built as a Mission in 1724 which served as a home to the missionaries who were trying to convert the Native American Indians over to Catholicism. In 1793, Spain distributed the land of its five missions, including the Alamo, to the remaining Indian residents. The men and women continued to farm the fields and raise their families in this San Antonio Community.

You will catch your first glimpse of the Alamo from Alamo Plaza where you have a great view of Alamo Shrine which you can enter by walking through the large wooden doors. This is an original building which used to be the church and is now dedicated to the memory of the men who fell in defense of the Alamo. Inside you will see a few battle weapons, a diorama, flags and other items. Upon exiting the Shrine, cross into the next building which is now called the Sales Museum. This building was built in 1936 and houses both the gift shop and exhibits on Texas History. When were visited we saw several original Bowie Knives and a variety of guns.

If you have the opportunity to hear someone speak about the history of the Alamo, I strongly suggest you take a seat and listen. The talk is about twenty minutes and gives a thorough account of the events which happened at the Alamo throughout the years. Legends and facts are both discussed. These talks are usually held in the Cavalry Courtyard on the North side of the complex.

Behind the Shrine and gift shop, visitors can walk over the acequia (irrigation system) and into the Alamo Garden. Here a wide variety of plants and cactus live. On the south side of the complex are a few buildings including Alamo Hall and the DRT Library. Neither of these buildings was open when we visited. The Crockett Fountain is in front of the Library.

We saw every thing at the Alamo and we were only there about an hour or an hour and a half. I strongly recommend that anyone who visits San Antonio take that hour to understand the story of the Alamo, and also learn some of the history of San Antonio along the way.

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