Charles Despalier (Louisiana)

[Greg C.]

DESPALLIER, CHARLES (1812-1836). Charles Despallier, Alamo defender, son of Caudida Despallier, was born in Louisiana in 1812 and lived in Rapides Parish. His older brother, Blaz Philippe Despallier, traveled to Texas and took part in the siege of Bexarqv but became ill and returned to Louisiana; soon thereafter Charles moved to Texas. He reached San Antonio de Béxar by mid-February 1836 and distinguished himself during the siege of the Alamo by sallying from the fort under fire to burn huts that were affording the Mexican army cover. His actions were praised by William B. Travis. Despallier left the Alamo sometime after February 25, 1836, as a courier. He returned with the Gonzales Ranging Company of Mounted Volunteers on March 1, 1836, and died in the battle of the Alamoqv on March 6, 1836.

[neferetus]

Charles Despalier is sometimes confused with Carlos Espalier, another of the defenders of the Alamo. On some Alamo rosters, Carlos gets eliminated altogether in favor of Charles. But both were there and both died.