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Road Trip the Texas Revolution

By chet | March 2, 2017

Happy Texas Independence Day! We remember March 2, 1836 because on that day Texas declared its independence from Mexico at the Convention of 1836. Yet, there were many significant events that led up to this final important moment (and you can find a timeline here ). Here’s a list of all the modern day places that are significant to the Texas Revolution, in chronological order of their place on the revolution timeline. You can retrace Texas’s fight for independence by following this entire list on a road trip or just choose a few to find artifacts and retrace certain moments on Texas’s road to freedom.

(1) Gonzales Memorial Museum – Gonzales, TX

The journey to Texas Independence started in Gonzales on Oct. 2, 1835, when Texans — already angered by Santa Anna’s tyranny — refused to surrender a cannon to a troop of Mexican soldiers and taunted them with a call to “Come and Take It”. The Texans attacked the Mexican troops thus igniting the revolution. You can view this important cannon, artifacts from the early days in Gonzales, and a memorial dedicated to the men who died in the Alamo at the Gonzales Memorial Museum .

(2) The Alamo – San Antonio, TX

Every Texan is sure to “Remember the Alamo,” where General Santa Anna and his troops surprised the Texans after the Siege of Bexar, leading to defeat after a 13-day battle at the  Alamo . Visit this iconic Texas mission in the heart of downtown San Antonio to see the line Travis drew in the sand asking his men to join him in the fight for Texas, learn about the fateful battle and honor the men who lost their lives here.

(3) Washington-on-the-Brazos Site – Washington, TX

In the video above, you’ll see our time at the site where 59 men gathered on March 2 to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence claiming Texas as free from Mexico’s control. Not only can you still tour Independence Hall, the little cabin where Texas first gained freedom, but at this site you’ll also find the Star of the Brazos Museum and Barrington Living History Farm , where you can learn about and experience early Texas life.

(4) Fannin Battleground State Historic Site – Victoria, TX

Photo by Ernest Mettendorf .

After the fall of the Alamo, Santa Anna was angry that the Texan army was increasing, so he ordered all prisoners from battle be shot. To escape death, Commander James Walker Fannin, Jr., surrendered at the Battle of Coleto on the condition that they be escorted back United States. This historic site is where the Battle of Coleto was fought, and you’ll find a monument marking the spot where Fannin surrendered.

(5) Presidio la Bahia – Goliad, TX

After Fannin and his men surrendered at the Battle of Coleto Creek and Mexican General Mexia agreed to their condition of being treated as prisoners of war and escorted back to the United States, the prisoners were delivered to Presido la Bahia. But instead of keeping his word, on March 27, Mexia had the Mexican troops execute the Texan soldiers by the side of the road. Fannin and the other injured soldiers were executed in front of the chapel. Visit this site in remembrance of the brave men who died at the Goliad Massacre. Down the road, you’ll find the Fannin Memorial Monument , marking where Fannin and his men are buried.

(6)  New Kentucky Park – Hockley, TX

This park near Tomball is the site of Sam Houston’s famous “fork in the road” decision during the Texas Revolution. As he was traveling with the Texas troops, he had to decide whether to turn left and head for safety in Louisiana or turn right and face the Mexican Army. He headed right toward San Jacinto to face the Mexican army head on. Stop by to see the marker signifying this fork in the road.

(7) San Jacinto Battleground Site – La Porte, TX

The Battle of San Jacinto was the last major battle of the Texas Revolution, when the Texan army surprise-attacked the napping Mexican troops. During the 18-minute battle, the Mexicans were defeated and Santa Anna was captured the next morning. Walk the area where Houston and the troops claimed victory for Texas, visit the San Jacinto Museum of History to learn more about the battle and ride the elevator to the top of the monument for a bird’s-eye view of the battleground and the bay.

(8) San Fernando Cathedral – San Antonio, TX

In this cathedral are the few remains of the Texas heroes who died at the siege of the Alamo, including Travis, Crockett and Bowie. After the battle of the Alamo, Santa Anna ordered the remains of the Texas troops burned and scattered, but Juan Seguin gathered them and hid them in this Cathedral. Stop by to pay your respects to these great men.

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It was called “Tejas,” an enormous Mexican territory - far from civilization. And soon, an epic story would be written across this terrain. Men would conspire. Battles would be fought. And legends would be born. The places where blood ran thick, those names still haunt us: the Alamo; Goliad. Unspeakable tragedy – and a final, shocking victory. And suddenly, Texas… was an independent republic. On this mobile tour, we’ll visit the places where history was made; meet the men and women who risked everything; and experience the epic story of the Texas Revolution.

WATCH: Fire of Revolution in Texas

Watch Texas Revolution Videos

Short narrated videos give travelers a glimpse into the history of the Texas Revolution.

Explore the Tour

Looking for Texas Revolution history near you? Explore the tour by location.

Texians in Conflict

Learn more about the backgrounds and deeds of just a few of those who helped forge the Republic of Texas.

Mexicans Defending Tejas

Learn more about a number of those defending the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.

About This Tour

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Step back in time by dressing up as an Old West cowboy, pioneer woman, or saloon gal in authentic period attire. We can help you look the part.

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Recommended photographer: Goen South Photography 328 Mistletoe San Antonio TX 78212 210-736-5006 or visit their website.

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Come be entertained, inspired, and motivated as san antonio's history comes to life, learn lessons from texan and american heroes about leadership...duty...character...patriotism...courage., battle of the alamo & the texas revolution (1835-1836), texas cowboys & longhorn cattle drives (1866-1886), theodore roosevelt: an american hero (1858-1919), presented by, tom jackson, alamo-certified living historian & leadership speaker, since 1995, tom jackson, a 5 th generation texan and internationally-known living historian, has taken his audiences from all over the world on fun, entertaining, and inspirational journeys through san antonio's unique history while dressed in historic attire. come enjoy an engaging program or other services while you enjoy learning just why the historic “alamo city” is so special., what others say about tom's performance as a texas cowboy..

[Tom Jackson] has been a joy to work with and has enhanced the enjoyment our guests’ experience when they have an event at our ranch. Many of our clients have commented on how they have enjoyed Tom interacting with their group with his educational and entertainment services about Texan and American history. ~ Craig Christopher, Rio Cibolo Ranch, Zuehl, Texas

Everyone was fascinated by the authenticity of your Old West Cowboy attire and the great history and stories you told about that era. Great job! ~ Gary Jones, President, Gary Jones Presents, Meeting Planner, San Antonio, Texas

What others say about Tom's programs on the Texas Revolution.

Toms' subject fit our event perfectly and was received with a standing ovation. He will definitely be recommended for future events. ~ Jason Triggs, High Priest & Prophet, Alzafar Shriners

Everyone was raving about your performance at the Alamo and your talk afterwards at the Crockett Hotel. Thank you so much. ~ Anne Ownby, Frost Bank Windsor Club, San Antonio, Texas

What others say about Tom's performance as Theodore Roosevelt.

You were amazing, entertaining and more than we thought. They loved your delivery and presentation of material. I was there for two hours after your program still talking to members-they usually leave immediately. BZ. Well done. ~ LT. Steven Brewster, U.S Navy, and Governor, San Antonio Colony of the Texas Society of Mayflower Descendants, San Antonio, Texas

Everyone was mesmerized by your impersonation of Theodore Roosevelt. Every detail of Roosevelt's career as presented by you was accurate and informative. This was by far the most entertaining and interesting program I have attended in years. Great job. ~ Col. Donald J. Engelking, US Army (Ret.), member, San Antonio Professional Tour Guide Association, San Antonio, Texas

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STAR OF THE REPUBLIC MUSEUM

Temporarily closed washington-on-the-brazos state historic site is undergoing an epic restoration and reimagination to create an enhanced visitor experience. with this restoration, the star of the republic will be temporarily closed. during this time, independence hall, barrington plantation state historic site, walking trails, and the picnic area will remain open to the public during regular hours. the site’s visitor center will be restored to bring the events of 1836 to life, highlighting the significance of the convention of 1836 in the texas revolution. the star of the republic museum will provide insight into the republic of texas, showcasing the diverse groups that lived in texas at that time..

A visit to the museum provides an overview of the Texas Republic period, beginning with a 20-minute film entitled, “Once a Nation.” Visitors can browse through the museum’s permanent exhibition, The Republic of Texas, which showcases over 1,000 objects that demonstrate the heritage of Texas within the context of the early to mid 19th century. Professionally designed and fabricated, the exhibition presents the experiences of ordinary Texans and extraordinary events in 10,000 square feet of exhibit space. The first floor exhibits present a chronological history of early Texas, from the first Texans (the Native Americans) to European explorers, to settlers and colonists, to the soldiers and patriots who fought for Texas independence. Above the ramp leading to the second floor, a 140-foot long, ten-foot tall mural illustrates the overland route from east Texas to the town of Washington in the mid 19th century. The second floor exhibits represent the social and multicultural history of the Republic of Texas, which existed from 1836 to 1846. The complete exhibition provides a comprehensive and unparalleled history of the people, places and events that created the Republic of Texas.

The Star of the Republic Museum’s collection is unique and irreplaceable, and includes three dimensional artifacts, as well as prints, maps, paintings, original manuscripts, rare books, and early historic documents, primarily from the Republic period.

See the Collection

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Public Hours

The museum will closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.

Admission Fees 

Tickets for the general public may be purchased at the Visitor Center.

Individual Tickets for all sites:

• Adults: $8.00
• Students (Age 6-18 and college students): $5.00
• Children (Age 5 and under): Free
• Family Pass (Includes 2 adults and 1 student): $20.00 Each additional student is $1. 
• Seniors & Veterans: $7.00

Group Tour Tickets: 

• School Group (per student): $2 per site or $5 for all three sites.
• Adult Group (per person): $6 for all three sites.

Tour Information

Group tours and education programs are available.  Please call 936 878 2214 for additional information or to book your tour.

Events at the Museum

• Independence Hall
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• The Star of the Republic Museum
• Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site
• Visitor Center
• Six Flags over Texas Monument
• Washington on the Brazos Historical Foundation
• Descendants of the Signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence
• Letter from the President

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Descendants of the Signers

If you’re a descendant of one of the 59 men who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, complete the necessary forms to have your name added to the registry of documented descendants, and receive a complimentary one-year membership in the Park Association.

Star of the Republic Museum 936.878.2214 [email protected]

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Touring Texas Battlefields

Texas is a state rich in history . However, one aspect of that history which is often overlooked is the state's military history, specifically the battles which were fought in Texas during both the Texas Revolution and the Mexican/American War. In these two wars, both of which occurred in the mid-1800s, a number of important battles and numerous smaller skirmishes took place in Texas. Today, it is still possible to visit many of these battlefields. Some have been preserved as historic sites, while others have not. In either instance, it is still possible to get a feel for where the battle took place.

Through the years the Alamo has become such a popular tourist attraction that it is easy to forget what made it famous, to begin with. But, as most people know, this old mission was the site of the infamous Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. Although Gen. Santa Anna and the Mexican Army won the battle in overwhelming fashion, it became a rallying point for the struggling Texan army which, obviously, eventually won the war. Much of the Alamo's mystique comes from the men who died defending it. Luminaries such as Davy Crockett and William Barrett Travis were among the slain Alamo defenders. Today, the Alamo is owned by the State of Texas and operated by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and is open every day of the year except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

San Jacinto

Maybe not as famous as the Alamo to the outside world, San Jacinto is certainly dear to Texans as this was the site of the decisive battle that ended the Texas Revolution. The Battle of San Jacinto, which took place on April 21, 1836, won Texas its independence from Mexico when the Texan Army, commanded by Gen. Sam Houston, captured General Santa Anna – Mexico’s dictator and leader of the Mexican troops. Located a short distance from Houston , today the battlefield houses the San Jacinto Monument and Museum and is open to the public seven days a week.

The Battle of Palo Alto, which took place on May 8, 1846, was the first battle of the two-year conflict known as the US/Mexican War. The site was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and a National Historic Site in 1978. Today, the 3,400-acre battlefield is the only unit of the National Park Service that has a primary focus on the US/Mexican War. The battlefield and historic site, which are located just outside of Brownsville, are open to the public seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.

The first military action of the US/Mexican War was actually an artillery exchange between the US troops at Fort Texas and the Mexican troops across the river in Matamoros. Fort Texas, later known as Fort Brown, survived that bombardment as well as the war and remained an active US military post until after World War II. Today, portions of Fort Brown are on the University of Texas-Brownsville campus and the Fort Brown Golf Course.

On October 9, 1835, the first offensive action of the Texas Revolution took place in Goliad. Two months later, the first 'Declaration of Independence' was signed in a Goliad mission. In 1836, Col. James Fannin and 341 Texan soldiers captured following the Battle of Coleto Creek were executed in what became known as the Goliad Massacre. Today the site of the Battle of Coleto Creek is preserved as a state historic site - the Fannin Battleground , which is part of the Texas Independence Trail.

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Texas Revolution and Civil War

Historical marker.

722 21st Street, Galveston, TX ( Directions )

One of over 200 historical markers on the island, this marker is located at the Galveston County Courthouse and highlights Galveston during the Texas Revolution and Civil War. The marker was erected by the County of Galveston.

“Following Laffite’s expulsion from Galveston, settlers from the West Indies began to arrive. Within a few years, Galveston became principal port to the Republic of Texas.”

“Galveston was declared a Port of Entry in 1825 by Mexico and a customs house was established. The City served as capital of The Republic of Texas when President David G. Burnett and his cabinet were forced to abandon the interior at the time Sam Houston’s forces met and defeated the Mexican army at San Jacinto in 1836.”

“Michel B. Menard purchased what is now the present site of Galveston from the Republic of Texas in 1836 for $50,000.”

“Galveston County was created in 1838 by an act of the Texas Congress. The city of Galveston was incorporated in 1839.”

“During the next decade, Galveston shared in the rapid growth and development of Texas. Churches were established and banks were founded. The Galveston News began publication and the first Federal Count in Texas was established. The City was soon to become the most important cultural and commercial center in the State.”

“In 1858, trackage of the Galveston, Houston and Henderson Railroad was completed between the island and Houston.”

“By July 1861, the Federal blockade was extended to Texas. Confederate forces evacuated Galveston in October, 1862, but in 1863, with General John Bankhead Magruder in command, the Confederate forces occupied the City, capturing four vessels and some 300 Federal troops. The Confederate forces remained here until the end of the Civil War.”

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Road to Revolution

Road to Revolution  is a rotating exhibition series highlighting National Archives records that document major milestones and critical historical context to the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Annotated Map of the British Colonies in North America with the Roads, Distances, Limits and Extent of the Settlements, ca. 1775. Records of Boundary and Claims Commissions and Arbitrations

Augmenting the well-known sequence of events in the two years preceding July 4, 1776, are displays that focus on the diverse experiences and perspectives for members of the Founding generation whose stories are less well known—including Native Americans, free and enslaved African Americans, and women. 

Collectively  Road to Revolution  reveals that the journey from colonial resistance and rebellion to American revolution and independence is not composed of a single narrative but a story of many intersecting (and diverging) paths in the universal pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. 

Roots of Rebellion

June 21 - August 28, 2024

The origins of the American Revolution can be traced to another conflict–the Seven Years' War. Colonial resistance emerged in response to new imperial policies related to western lands and eastern taxes (and trade) as Parliament grappled to administer its vastly expanded empire.

First Continental Congress

August 29 - October 30, 2024

The First Continental Congress convened to discuss united resistance to the Coercive Acts and issued a Declaration of Rights and the Articles of Association. Recognizing that unity would be essential to forcing a repeal of the so-called "Intolerable Acts," the Continental Association formed local committees to put economic pressure on Parliament–and on their neighbors–to submit to patriotic boycotts.

Native Americans and the American Revolution

October 31, 2024 - January 29, 2025

The American Revolution aligned and divided Native American communities just as it did British North American colonists. The stories presented reveal that whether Native Americans sided with the Rebels, Redcoats, neither, or both, the actions of tribes and their leaders were primarily motivated by a desire to preserve their land and autonomy.

Additional Online Resources:

• America's Founding Documents
• Founders Online
• Milestone Documents
• The Text Message:  American Revolution
• Military Records Research: The American Revolution

Exhibit Credits:

Road to Revolution  is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation, through the generous support of Comcast Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, and Procter & Gamble.

300 Alamo Plaza

San Antonio, TX 78205

Open today 9 a.m to 5:30 p.m

Travel the "Timeline of the Texas Revolution" at The Alamo on October 9

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT Kevin Femmel, Alamo Trust, Inc. [email protected] Office (210) 225-1391x3005 Mobile (210) 836-8616

Travel the "Timeline of the Texas Revolution" on Saturday, October 9th to immerse yourself in the events that lead up to Texas gaining independence at the Battle of San Jacinto. The 1836 Battle of the Alamo took place within a larger movement for independence. Visitors will learn about the important events in the Texas Revolution through engaging programming including demonstrations on 1830s bullet making, cooking, firing demonstrations, and more. Organizations like the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site, San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, the Gonzales Convention and Visitor Bureau Board, the Gonzales County Historical Commission, Presidio La Bahia, and the Texas Independence Trail Region will be onsite to teach visitors about the role each of these places played in the Texas Revolution. A free event that is appropriate for all-ages, join us for a journey along the "Timeline of the Texas Revolution."

What:    Timeline of the Texas Revolution Who:      Public When:    Saturday, October 9, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where:   The Alamo               300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

About Alamo Trust, Inc. | Located in the heart of San Antonio, the Alamo serves as a sacred memorial to all those who lived, fought and died there. Visitors pay homage to the heroes of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, a defining moment in Texas History. Alamo Trust, Inc., or the Alamo, tells that story of Texas independence, as part of its 300-year history to over 1.6 million visitors every year. To visit the Alamo is to witness living history, experience authentic artifacts and admire an iconic landmark that shaped the country. Visit thealamo.org.

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This defiant statement sparked a revolution and would forever define the spirit of the town of Gonzales , where the fight for Texas liberty began. The first shots of the Texas Revolution rang out in Gonzales, and its people played a pivotal role in helping the Lone Star State gain its freedom from Mexico. This proud past is represented in the many museums and historic sites throughout town, making it a must-visit destination for Texas history fans. But that’s not all Gonzales has to offer. Travel here and you’ll discover a vibrant community with a beautiful downtown full of unique shops and restaurants, plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors, and fun annual events for the whole family. All of this is less than 100 miles from San Antonio and Austin, making it a one-of-a-kind retreat from the fast pace of big-city life.

The Texas Revolution began in Gonzales on October 2, 1835, with 18 men and one cannon, but the story doesn’t end there. Gonzales was the only town to send troops to reinforce the defenders of the Alamo, a group of men known as the “Immortal 32.” It was also where Sam Houston began building his army after the fall of the Alamo. Gonzales was burned to the ground shortly thereafter, as Houston wanted to prevent the Mexican Army from benefiting from anything in the town. These pivotal moments in Texas’ war for its independence are retold at the Gonzales Memorial Museum , which features artifacts and other items including the famous “Come and Take It” cannon that started it all.

Of course, the Gonzales Memorial Museum is just one of several museums in town. In fact, quite a few of the town’s sites are located within the Texas History Museum District , the first of its kind in the state. These museums touch on a range of different time periods in Gonzales’ past. Experience life as an early settler to Texas at the Pioneer Village Living History Farm , a recreated town with authentic 18th- and 19th-century structures, including a home built in 1892. Meanwhile, the Gonzales County Jail Museum , situated within the original jail that was built in 1885, tells the story of the town’s sheriff’s and criminals.

There’s plenty to see outside the district. Gonzales’ downtown streets are lined with gorgeous historic buildings that house interesting restaurants and shops that are well worth browsing. In addition, there’s the Gonzales County Courthouse, a spectacular example of Richardsonian-Romanesque architecture with red-brick walls, white-stone arches, and a clock tower. Downtown is also home to two public squares, each of which honors soldiers who fought and died in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War.

Gonzales has just as much to offer those who like to play outdoors as it does history enthusiasts. Independence Golf Course , a nine-hole public golf course in Gonzales, features lush green fairways set among native pecan trees. The beautiful Guadalupe River, with its slow current and wealth of wildlife, provides the ideal environment for kayaking and fishing. All of the natural beauty of south central Texas can also be enjoyed at Palmetto State Park , a 270-acre area where you can go kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping.

An outstanding history, a wealth of museums and historic sites, a striking downtown area, and a remarkable amount of recreational opportunities makes Gonzales a great vacation destination for any kind of traveler. 

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