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The Alamo
National Park Service
photo
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The most enduring symbol of independence in Texas, the Alamo's 1744
church, is part of the remains of the mission complex established by
the Franciscans as Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718. The
mission was named Alamo, meaning "cottonwood tree," by Spanish troops
garrisoned there during the Mexican struggle for independence from Spain.
In 1836 it was the site of the famous battle in defense of the Texas
Revolution when Mexican President Santa Anna's army annihilated approximately
190 men after a 13-day siege. The sacrifice of men such as William
Travis, the commander of the garrison, James Bowie, and David Crockett,
inspired General Sam Houston's army six weeks later at the decisive
battle of San Jacinto, which established Texas' independence.
The Alamo, a National
Historic Landmark, is located at 100 Alamo Plaza in downtown San
Antonio. It is open It is open everyday of the week from 9:00am to 5:30pm, except during June, July, and August when it is open until 7:00pm. The Alamo is closed Dec. 24-25. For further information, call 210-225-1391
or visit The Alamo's website.
The Alamo has also been documented
by the Historic American Buildings Survey.
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