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Alamo Tours Remind Texans About Their Glorious History

By Marci Glover


History records may examples of small numbers of people sacrificing their lives to ensure the liberty of others. In San Antonio in Texas the 1936 battle between the large army of Mexicans and a small number of courageous defenders serves as one of the most excellent examples of how history can continue, even after hundreds of years, to inspire people. That is why more than two and a half million people undertake Alamo tours annually.

The battle that took place there remains one of the best remembered in the history of the USA. It is still regarded as a crossroad in the fight for freedom and liberty. In this instance it was a fight against colonization. Visitors go there to pay homage to the courage of those few that were willing to sacrifice their lives for the ultimate American dream of freedom.

Because the site is situated in the heart of one of the ten largest cities in the United States, it is easy to reach. Visitors can go by air, bus, car or even train. The official website, thealamo.org, provides excellent directions and advice on how to best visit the site. It is also possible to book guided tours. There is a variety of options, including a private tour and even a night time tour.

Even in this times of financial instability the site can still be visited free of charge. Individual donations, as well as the support from organizations such as the Texas General Land Office and The Daughters of the Republic of Texas ensure that site is well maintained and that operational cost is covered. The free entry policy ensures that anybody will be able to experience a visit to this unique and historic site.

No tour can be complete without a visit to the church in the center of the site. The building was originally intended to serve as the principal church of the mission, but it never was completed. It is here were some of the small band made the last stand. The church features flags depicting the countries of origin and the names of all the defenders. The building now serves as a shrine and visitors are required to remain respectful.

The oldest building on the site, almost three hundred years old, is home to the Long Barracks Museum. When the outer walls were breached during the final battle, some of the survivors retreated here and this is where some of the fiercest fighting took place. Today it features a fascinating collection of exhibits called A Story Bigger Than Texas. Visitors can also view a short film on the battle itself.

Visitors are required to behave in a manner that behooves a shrine to Texas liberty. Obscene or offensive clothing is not allowed. Cell phones and cameras may not be used in any of the buildings. Visitors are even required to talk in lowered voices and men may not enter whilst wearing a hat. Nobody may touch any exhibit or even the walls.

Those that sacrificed their lives, showing great courage and bravery to ensure the freedom of others deserve to be honored and remembered. A visit to the Alamo will almost certainly serve to remind Americans of just how many sacrifices it took to obtain liberty. Those enjoying the fruits of the sacrifices are obliged to honor those who made them.




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