March 6, 1836
Republic of Texas: In the pre-dawn hours today, troops under General Antonio López de Santa Anna stormed the ancient mission Alamo located in San Antonio. It is believed all of the 185--190 defenders were killed after a vicious and heroic fight. The battle lasted about 90 minutes and could be seen and heard from the town's square. Both cannon and rifle fire were coming from the battle scene.
The battle began with bugles sounding the "Deguello" (which we have been told means no quarter to the defenders--no prisoners will be taken) and cannon fire from Santa Anna's positions and, at the end, hand to hand combat could be seen on all sides. Many of the attackers also died in this horrendous assault. No casualty figures have been released. Notable among the dead are William Barrett Travis, the fort's commander as well as David Crockett, a former U.S. Congressman and adventurer James Bowie.
There are reports that several women and children who were inside the Alamo when it fell were unharmed and will be allowed safe passage away from this battle site. No word yet on the exact number.
Today's battle ends the thirteen day stand-off between the Texians, led my Col. William Barrett Travis and the army of General Santa Anna. This battle is but one of many that have resulted because many of the citizens of Texas have wanted to establish their own separate country. Santa Anna and his army are attempting to put down this up-rising.
Reports that Travis was to destroy the Alamo and join Texian army and General Sam Houston have not been confirmed. If these were his orders it is unclear why he would establish a garrison here rather than destroy it and continue his withdrawal before the on-coming forces of Santa Anna.
Houston and the remainder of the Texian Army are believed to be east of San Antonio, though their exact location is unclear at this time. It is even unclear if Houston is presently with the army. Reports state that his army is in fast retreat but these have been unconfirmed. Some reports state that Houston is planning to stop and fight Santa Anna; other reports have him traveling all the way to the U.S. border.
It will take time to assess the meaning of today's events.
