Remember the Alamo

No one is sure who said those words first but several source credit them to Sam Houston at the battle of San Jacinto. While in San Antonio, I had to see the Alamo. It was nothing like I expected.

I figured it was going to be expensive to get into. I expected crowds of people. And, the worst part, I thought it was on the plains of Texas requiring a long ride in a tour bus or taxi. None of that was true.

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas have been running and managing the Alamo since 1905. They accept donation but admission is free. This impressed me so much I gave a donation greater than what I thought the admission would be. There was also a sign requesting men remove their hats as a sign of respect. Rarely, do you find me outside without a hat but I didn’t wear one that day.

There were plenty of people but not what I would call a crowd. Plus, it is located on 4.2 acres so there is plenty of room.

But most surprising is its location. It is in downtown San Antonio. Step outside the wall of the Alamo and this is what you see. It made me wish it had been on the plains of Texas. I know there is one taxi driver who had a story to tell about the weird tourists he encountered. I was done with my meetings and my speech was given, I had a few hours before another appointment. A few of us were going to see the Alamo! Not wanting to waste any precious time looking for a map and getting directions we went outside and climbed into a cab. I asked how much it would be to go to the Alamo. There was silence – dead silence. I was starting to think he didn’t want to drive that far when he turned around and said in a friendly tone, “Sir, it will cost about five dollars for me to drive you. You can save money and even some time if you don’t mind walking two blocks.” He gave me directions and he was right it was no more than two blocks from the hotel. Next time I will ask for a map or directions.