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Post by neferetus on Jan 5, 2006 13:01:02 GMT -5
ALMONTE, JUAN NEPOMUCENO (1803-1869).Juan Nepomuceno Almonte, Mexican official and diplomat, was born in Necupétaro, Michoacán, on May 15, 1803. He was reputed to be a son of an illustrious priest, José María Morelos, by an Indian woman named Brigida Almonte, but conclusive evidence is lacking. In 1815 Almonte was sent to be educated in the United States, where he acquired both social and political principles that influenced a considerable portion of his public life and career. A resolute enemy of Spain, he joined Vicente Ramón Guerrero's supporters upon his return to Mexico. Almonte was on the staff of José Félix Trespalacios in Texas in 1822 and in 1824 was sent as a part of the Mexican legation to London, where he was instrumental in negotiating a commercial treaty with England in 1825-Mexico's first treaty with one of the major powers. In 1830, while serving in the national Congress, Almonte became an object of government persecution and was forced to hide. About this time he, as editor of El Atleta, accused President Anastasio Bustamante of permitting foreign intervention in Mexican affairs. The paper succumbed under heavy fines imposed by the government. In 1834 Almonte made an inspection tour of Texas and wrote a detailed and comprehensive report on what he found (see ALMONTE'S REPORT ON TEXAS). He accompanied Antonio López de Santa Anna to Texas in 1836 and was taken prisoner at San Jacinto. He was subsequently sent with Santa Anna to the United States and returned to Mexico with him in February 1837. He continued in diplomatic and military service and rose to the rank of general of a division. In 1839 he headed the Mexican legation in Belgium but in 1840 returned to the War Department. Almonte was accredited minister plenipotentiary to Washington in 1841 and held the position until 1845, when he returned to Mexico upon the annexation of Texas. He was appointed minister to France, but on his arrival in Havana he joined Santa Anna and returned to Mexico. During the Mexican War Almonte served for a time as secretary of war. He went to Europe in 1856 as minister plenipotentiary to London, but neglected his duties somewhat and devoted himself to the promotion of foreign intervention and monarchical schemes that culminated in the French intervention in Mexico. He returned to Mexico with the French troops. In March 1862 he landed at Veracruz to aid in establishing the monarchy. He was declared supreme chief of the nation by the French and was president of the regency that brought Maximilian to the throne. After Maximilian appointed him envoy to France, Almonte died in Paris on March 21, 1869. BIBLIOGRAPHY: Juan Nepomuceno Almonte Papers, Barker Texas History Center, University of Texas at Austin. Juan Nepomuceno Almonte, "The Private Journal of Juan Nepomuceno Almonte, February 1-April 16, 1836," Southwestern Historical Quarterly 48 (July 1944). Juan N. Almonte, "Statistical Report of Texas," Southwestern Historical Quarterly 28 (January 1925). Vicente Filisola, Memorias para la historia de la guerra de Tejas (Mexico City, 1848, etc.; abridged trans. by Wallace Woolsey, Memoirs for the History of the War in Texas, Austin: Eakin Press, 1985). Celia Gutiérrez Ibarra, Como México perdió Texas: Análisis y transcripción del informe secreto 1834 de Juan Nepomuceno Almonte (Mexico City: Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia, 1987). Helen W. Harris, The Public Life of Juan Nepomuceno Almonte (Ph.D. dissertation, University of Texas, 1935). Winifred W. Vigness/ HANDBOOK OF TEXAS HISTORY
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Post by neferetus on Jan 8, 2006 1:16:43 GMT -5
Another Joseph Hefter painting from the early 60's.
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Post by neferetus on Jan 8, 2006 16:04:02 GMT -5
Santa Anna and some of his staff examine the body of Davy Crocket, in front of the church doors. (Joseph Hefter)
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Post by neferetus on Jan 19, 2006 11:33:42 GMT -5
Here's an interesting old lithograph of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna that shows him out of uniform, much like Travis' slave Joe remembered him. In Joe's account, as documented by William Fairfax Gray, when Joe was led before Santa Anna after the Alamo battle, Joe found Santa Anna dressed in a black suit, looking more like a Methodist Minister, than a general.
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Post by Bromhead24 on Jan 19, 2006 11:53:22 GMT -5
He does look like a minister
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Post by neferetus on Feb 6, 2006 15:47:54 GMT -5
Santa Anna's popularity ranged the full spectrum, from frontplate of a book, to a well-riddled target.
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Post by Bromhead24 on Feb 6, 2006 20:27:19 GMT -5
Buck and ball maybe?
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Post by neferetus on Jun 1, 2006 10:58:18 GMT -5
This portrait of Santa Anna appears in an 1897 SOUVENIR OF THE ALAMO book which I recently acquired. I have never seen it before and suspect that it may've been done by a member of the DRT exclusively for the book.
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Post by neferetus on Jan 16, 2007 18:06:20 GMT -5
Capture of the New Orleans Gresy flag by Lt. Jose Maria Torres, as told by Walter Lord.
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Post by neferetus on Oct 27, 2007 11:56:54 GMT -5
Here's a nice biography of General Castrillon from the San Jacinto Museum of History: Castrillón’s reputation as a soldier and gentleman permeated both sides of the Texas Revolution. San Jacinto Museum of History © 2003 Manuel Fernández Castrillón (?–1836) Fought Texian Forces at the Battle of San Jacinto Castrillón was a major general in the Mexican army, originally from either Cuba or Spain. Like Santa Anna, he was a career soldier who fought alongside Spanish and loyalist forces near the Mexican state of Veracruz. It was there he met Santa Anna. Santa Anna's ally through much of their working relationship, Castrillón often took exception to Santa Anna's decisions during the Texas Revolution. He opposed the hurried assault on the Alamo. Yet when he received his orders to lead the battle's first column of troops, he did so with expert efficiency. A humane and honorable soldier, Castrillón also pleaded clemency on behalf of the seven Texian fighters who survived the Alamo siege. Castrillón's arguments for mercy were ignored, and the men were executed. Castrillón again stated his protest when Santa Anna ordered the execution of the Goliad prisoners. Castrillón's compassion was a sign of kindness, not weakness. When the Texians roused Mexican forces from their afternoon siesta on April 21, 1836 at the Battle of San Jacinto, he was one of the few Mexican officers to stand his ground. His bravery was recorded in the memoirs of Texian second lieutentant Walter Paye Lane: "As we charged into them the General commanding the Tampico Battalion (their best troops) tried to rally his men, but could not. He drew himself up, faced us, and said in Spanish: 'I have been in forty battles and never showed my back; I am too old to do it now.' He continues: "Gen. Rusk hallooed to his men: 'don't shoot him,' and knocked up some to their guns; but others ran around and riddled him with balls. I was sorry for him. He was an old Castilian gentleman, Gen. Castrillo." Honored on both sides of the Texas Revolution—except by Santa Anna, who blamed the loss at San Jacinto in part on Castrillón—he was even buried in the family graveyard of Lorenzo de Zavala, the vice-president of Texas. Copyright © 2006 San Jacinto Museum of History. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy.
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Post by Greg C. on Oct 27, 2007 12:13:09 GMT -5
Its a shame they killed Castrillion, he was one of the few, if not the only person in Santa Anna's staff that should have been spared.
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Post by neferetus on Nov 2, 2007 10:02:48 GMT -5
Colonel Juan Almonte was also one of Santa Anna's better officers. He was Santa Anna's secretary and confidential advisor. At the battle of San Jacinto, it was Almonte's cool head that saved the lives of hundreds of Mexican prisoners. Below is an account of Almonte's actions by General Rusk:
"At the close of the fight, and just after sundown, Colonel Almonte came out of the woods with about 250 men. There were at that place not exceeding ten or fifteen Americans; and none of them could speak the Mexican language well. The prisoners were asked if they could speak English. Almonte answered in Spanish that they could not. They were then told in Spanish to form two and two deep and march with us to camp. They formed and commenced marching accordingly. Our few men were distributed around them as a guard. Most of us were very much fatigued, and such was the condition of the Mexicans, also. As we proceeded in this way, one of our men, who was so tired he could hardly walk, being incommoded by a Mexican who had dropped out of the line cursed and threatened him in a very rough manner in English. This threat was immediately repeated to the Mexican in Spanish. I concluded that he, at least, must understand English very well, and that it was probably Almonte whom I saw before me. I therefore observed to him, 'You must be Colonel Almonte'. He replied in English, 'You speak well.' I then rode up to him and gave him my hand, saying to him, 'It affords me great pleasure to see you, Colonel.' With great presence of mind and his customary politeness he responded 'The pleasure is reciprocated.' "
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Post by seguin on Nov 3, 2007 12:39:55 GMT -5
Nice account! It seems like most of the Mexican high ranking officers were ok. Santa Anna was the real culprit. It was he who ordered the massacre´s at the Alamo and at Goliad...
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Post by neferetus on Nov 4, 2007 15:03:59 GMT -5
The private journal of Colonel Juan Almonte was printed in THE NEW YORK HERALD in June, 1836. It's a fascinating read, I think.
[The New York Herald, Thursday, June 16, 1836]
IMPORTANT FROM TEXAS.
By the packet ship Nashville from New Orleans, which ar- rived on Tuesday evening, we have received various documents and papers from Texas and New Orleans --and among them, the original copies of the "Private Journal of the Mexican Campaign and its Progress," by Almonte, together with a "General Order Book," both contained in two folio manu- scripts and written in Spanish. As soon as the Journal shall be translated, we shall publish it in the Herald.
It is a highly interesting and valuable document, and throws a great deal of light on the secret motives and movements of Santa Anna and his generals. The journal is kept by Almonte, who was in this city last summer, and previous to the war and afterwards travelled through Texas as a spy. To his mis- representations is attributed the campaign altogether.
The Journal or Private Diary commences on the 1st of Feb- ruary, 1836, dated at Sa[l]tillo. Under the date of the "6th March, Sunday," there is an entry describing the assault on the Alamo. It began at 5¼ A.M. and continued till 6 o'clock. The journal states that the enemy (The Texians) attempted to escape but were all killed, or put to the sword. Only four women and one negro slave saved their lives. At the close of the entry is the following by way of postcript:
"Our soldiers robbed me.--Almonte."
A great many other curious particulars are told in this journal which will appear in our columns in a day or two.
Meantime we are are [sic] happy to learn that the affairs of Texas are in a most prosperous condition. General Cos and Col. Almonte have been adjudged by a Texian court martial to be shot -- Santa Anna's life will be preserved but he will remain a close prisoner of war.--This decision has been made though not yet promulgated.
Both Cos and Almonte deserve their fate. The former was a prisoner to the Texians in the early part of the contest. He was released on his word of honor not to take up arms against them. He broke this honor, and he dies as a traitor ought to do.
Almonte is the same person who was here last summer and secretly furnished or stimulated the Courier & Enquirer to publish articles calling the Texians "rebels" and "insurrection- ists." He afterwards went to Texas as a spy. He also deserves his fate.
We further hear that the gallant Houston will soon be in New York. His physicians have recommended to him a northern latitude till his wounds are healed. The climate of New Orleans, and the general excitement there, protract his convalescence, He wants retirement and tranquility.
By the next New Orleans packet we therefore expect General Houston, the hero of San Jacinto -- a victory unparalleled in ancient or modern times. It is the Marathon of Texas
[The New York Herald, Wednesday, June 22, 1836]
SINGULAR DISCLOSURE.
Journal of the Mexican Campaign -- by Almonte, Aid to Santa Anna. Picked up on the Battle Ground of San Jacinto by Anson Jones.
Annexed will be found a translation of the first portion of the remarkable "Secret Journal" of the recent Mexican Campaign, written by Col. Almonte, aide de camp to General Santa Anna. The original, in the Spanish language, is now in our possession. It was picked up on the battleground of San Jacinto by Dr. Anson Jones, and was sent to us via Galveston Island, on the 12th of May last. The journal was seen and examined by Mr. Childress, the diplomatic representative from Texas, who left this city a few days ago for Washington. The Journal begins as follows:
Journal Commences in February, 1836.
Feb. 1st.—At 8 A. M.—The President set out from Saltillo for Monclova, passing by way of the Hacienda (farm) of Santa Maria, 6 leagues distant; thence to Carretas, 5 leagues; thence to the Hacienda de Mesillas, 5 leagues; making- in all 16 leagues of good waggon road. In Carretas there is running water, no pasture, the road passes through high ridges and hills, and with little stone. There is a shorter road to Saltillo from Los Arcos, or a bridge near to the Hacienda of Santa Maria. Mesillas has no running water, but a reservoir; the running water being 1½ leagues distant; there is a large house, corn and corn stalks.
2d.—Started for Anclo at 7½ A. M.—To the reservoir of San Felipe, 7 leagues; road almost level; little stone; the water in the reservoir somewhat scarce; there is some pasture; no house; we encamped in a small valley; there we met the second Division under command of Tolsa; we arrived at 5 P. M. having made a short halt.
3d.--At 8¼ A. M.—Started to the Hoya, 8 leagues; no people; well dry; two small poor houses—to Bejar, 6 leagues; very good road; some dry pasture; no water in the road. The In- fantry arrived at 7½ P. M. and rested the day following; many soldiers sickened with diarrhoea, and some with blistered feet; plenty of water, but no fodder; corn at 2 rials [reals] the almad [almud].
4th.--Started at 8 A. M. to the Hacienda de Castaños, 10 leagues; running water, good and abundant; to Monclova, 3 leagues; good road; corn and stalks, but few provisions. From Saltillo to Monclova, according to our account, there are 57 leagues; according to the Itinerary, 52 leagues.
5th--The thermometer at Monclova in the house at 59°; in the afternoon arrived Messrs. Ampudia, Caro, Wall and Arago; I wrote to New York; it rained in the night; stood guard; Mr. Moral arrived.
6th.--In Monclova, thermometer at 59°, cloudy.--The second Division arrived; Flores was ordered to deliver the command of the Division of Gaudalaxara to his next in command; wrote under dictation of His Excellency the President; D. Ramon Musquiz left for Sta. Rosa; Arago continues unwell; Moral on guard.
7th.--In Monclova, thermometer 62°, day clear. Orders is- sued at 6 A. M. the next day; Sr. Mora, assistant guard; I wrote to********** ** * * * * * * * * * *. the mail from Mexico arrives at Monclova, Tuesday, in the morning, and leaves Wednesday at night.
8th.—Left Monclova at 7½ A. M. arrived at the Hacienda de Dos Hermanas and slept there.
9th.—To Lamparos, 5 leagues, (well water); to Laura, 5 leagues, (well water); good roads, all level, and good pasture.
lOth.--To the river Sabinas at La Hacienda de Soledad, 5 leagues; to San Juan, also Hacienda, 1 league; to San Jose, 9 leagues; good roads and pasture.
11th.--To the Cabezeras de Sta. Rita, 7 leagues, (running water); to San Miguel de Allende, 4 leagues; good roads and pasture; high hills.
12th.--We arrived at Rio Grande, having left Nava 14 leagues to the left; road good and level; pasture, but no water until reaching the river.
13th.--At the Rio Grande; weather stormy; thermometer 51°; the Americans burnt the bridge over the river Nueces; the Division left the day before under the command of Sr. Sesma.
14th.—At the Rio Grande; the weather moderates; ther- mometer 46°; our baggage arrived at 6 P. M. after dark.
15th.--At the Rio Grande; weather good; thermometer 56°; fine weather for traveling; despatched a part of the corre - spondence.
16th.--At 4½ P. M. started from Rio Grande, after writing until 3 in the afternoon; arrived at La Peña 11 o'clock at night; distance 12 leagues.
17th.--Exceedingly hot at mid-day on the Nueces; from La Peña to La Espantora, 5 leagues; to the river Nueces 1½, and to La Fortuga [Tortuga], 3 leagues.
18th.--To La Leona, 8 leagues; to No lo Digas, 4 leagues; no water.
19th.--At the Rio Frio, 5 leagues; found there in the morning the Division of Sr. Ramirez; little pasture; made a new bridge; the division crossed in the afternoon.
20th.--Started for Arroyo Seco, 4 leagues; to Tahuacan, 2 leagues; to Rio Hondo, 2 leagues, making 8 leagues. The night was clear and pleasant, morning cloudy, 72° of Farenheit; day cloudy, misty, no rain.
Thus far to day. We have only a few observations to make.
The publication of this authentic document, will be interesting on many accounts. The question of Texian Independence, is rapidly becoming the absorbing topic of the present day. Mex- ico, the United States, Great Britain, and France will all take a deep interest in the astounding events of the last six months. The creation of a new nation by the arms of a few brave men, will establish a new principle of action among mankind. The romantic enterprizes of Cortez and Pizarro, are about to be renewed by a different race, and under a new auspices. Religion was the impulse that overthrew the ancient races of this con- tinent, and established a fresh people over their ruins. Liberty is now the watchword, that may drive Spanish superstition and Spanish cruelty, not only from Texas, but from all South America.
Under the date of the 7th, we have left a gap in the Journal. This is done on purpose. In the original, the names are given at full length, to whom Almonte wrote. They are persons now residing in New York and Philadelphia, some of them of great respectability. During their sejour in this country, we do not wish to endanger their peace. The intelligence and views which Almonte communicated to them, is also known to persons here. It has a close and intimate connection with various movements of various men and prints both in New York and Philadelphia. Robt. Walsh, the editor of the National Gazette--Charles King, of the New York American--and several other persons have been conspicuous for their sympathy with the enemies of American liberty in Texas. We could a tale unfold, connected with these personages and the Mexican intriguants here-- but we stop a little while, and give them time to repent. The day will soon be here, when we may feel it our duty to fill up the blank from the original manuscript, which out of generosity and kindness, feelings, very probably, which they cannot ap- preciate, is for the present suppressed.
Another remarkable fact is known. In Almonte's correspond- ence with persons in New York and Philadelphia, it is certain, that some persons who have been speculating in Texas Land Companies, have been trying to keep on the kindly side of both the chiefs of the Mexican, and those of the Texian armies. They had made arrangements of such a nature, that whatever might be the issue of the contest, they should, like cats, fall on their feet. The same people have been, and are on the fence. Has any person in New York or Philadelphia been advancing funds on the Mexican interest? Have such persons refused to aid the Texians? These questions will be solved in proper time.
This portion of the journal brings down the Mexican army to the eastern bank of the Rio Frio, only a short distance from San Antonio. It begins at Soltillo [Saltillo] or Leona Vicario, in the State of New Leon. The descriptions of the scenery are brief, pithy, and correspond exactly with the accounts we have re- ceived personally from travellers. The next portion of the journal will bring us down to the assault of the Alamo.
[The New York Herald, June 23, 1836]
ALMONTE'S JOURNAL
We continue our translations from the "Journal." The first portion was all preparation and diplomacy--this is all war and bloodshed. The account of the investing and storming oí the Alamo is quite interesting. To the general reader it will be more pleasant reading than the first part. We have some further remarks to make--but we reserve them for another day.
Almonte's Journal Continued.
Feb.— Sunday 21st--At 7½ A. M. left Arroyo Hondo- weather cloudy--slight showers--not cold--wind south east. To Francisco Perez 4 leagues, (a stream of water very distant, but not on the road) To Arroyo del Chacon, good water, 3 leagues. To the river Medina 2 leagues; all good road, but broken by large hills. At ¼ before 2 o'clock the President ar- rived. The day completely overcast; the whole division at 5 o'clock, when it commenced raining heavily--all wet but baggage dry, at 12 o'clock at night it cleared some.
Monday, 22d--Commenced cloudy, but cleared at 10 o'clock. The troops cleared their arms and dryed their clothes; no de- sertions whatever or sickness. We passed the day at Medina to rest the troops. Two men from the Ranchos near Bexar ar- rived, one menchaca [Menchaca] and another; killed a beef; va- rious other persons came in, reviewed the troops. Sr. Ramirez y Sermer [Sesma], marched to cut off the retreat of the enemy with dragoons. It was believed the enemy discovered our movements.
Tuesday 23—At 7½ A. M. the army was put in march—To the Potranca 1½ leagues—To the Creek of Leon or Del Medio, 3½ leagues—To Bexar 3 leagues, in all 8 leagues. At half a league, from Bexar the division halted on the hills of Alazán at 12½ o'clock. General Sesma arrived at 7 A. M. and did not ad- vance to reconnoitre because he expected an advance of the enemy which was about to be made according to accounts given by a spy of the enemy who was caught. There was water, though little, in the stream of Las Lomas del Alazán. At 2 the army took up their march, the President and his staff in the van. The enemy, as soon as the march of the division was seen, hoisted the tri-colored flag with two stars, designed to represent Coahuila and Texas. The President with all his staff advanced to Campo Santo (burying ground.) The enemy lowered the flag and fled, and possession was taken of Bexar without firing a shot. At 3 P. M. the enemy filed off to the fort of Alamo, where there was pieces of artillery; among them one 13 pounder: I[t] appeared they had 130 men; during the afternoon 4 grenades were fired at them. The firing was suspended in order to re- ceive a messenger, who brought a dispatch the contents of which appears in No. 1, and the answer which was given will be found in No. 2. I conversed with the bearer who was Jameson (G. B.) and he informed me of the bad state they were in at the Alamo, and manifested a wish that some honorable con- ditions should be proposed for a surrender. Another messenger afterwards came, (Martin) late a clerk in a house in New Orleans. He stated to me what Mr. Travis said, "that if I wished to speak with him, he would receive me with much pleasure." I answered that it did not become the Mexican Gov- ernment to make any propositions through me, and that I had only permission to hear such as might be made on the part of the rebels. After these contestations night came on, and there was no more firing. In the night another small battery was made up the river near the house of Veremenda. I lodged in the house of Nixon, (Major) with Urriza and Marcil Aguirre. An inventory of the effects taken was made; many curious papers were found. One Smith, carpenter and cabinet maker, they say was the owner of the effects. I did not sleep all night, having to attend to the enemy and the property, the charge of which of which [sic] was entrusted to me; its value was about $3000.
Wednesday, 24th.--Very early this morning a new battery was commenced on the bank of the river, about 350 yards from the Alamo. It was finished in the afternoon, and a brisk fire was kept up from it until the 18 pounder and another piece was dismounted. The President reconnoitered on horseback, passing within musket shot of the fort. According to a spy, four of the enemy were killed. At evening the music struck up, and went to entertain the enemy with it and some grenades. In the night, according to the statement of a spy, 30 men ar- rived at the fort from Gonzales.
Thursday, 25th.--The firing from our batteries was com- menced early. The General in Chief, with the batallion de Cazadores, crossed the river and posted themselves in the Alamo--that is to say, in the houses near the fort. A new forti- fication was commenced by us near the house of McMullen. In the random firing the enemy wounded 4 of the Cazadores de Matamoros battalion, and 2 of the battalion of Jimenes, and killed one corporal and a soldier of the battalion of Matamoros. Our fire ceased in the afternoon. In the night two batteries were erected by us on the other side of the river in the Alameda of the Alamo--the battalion of Matamoros was also posted there, and the cavalry was posted on the hills to the east of the enemy, and in the road from Gonzales at the Casa Mata Antigua. At half past eleven at night we retired. The enemy, in the night, burnt the straw and wooden houses in their vicinity, but did not attempt to set fire with their guns to those in our rear. A strong north wind commenced at nine at night.
Friday, 26th.--The northern wind continued very strong; the thermometer fell to 39°, and during the rest of the day remained at 60°. At daylight there was a slight skirmish be- tween the enemy and a small party of the division of the east, under command of General Sesma. During the day the firing from our cannon was continued. The enemy did not reply, except now and then. At night the enemy burnt the small houses near the parapet of the battalion of San Luis, on the other side of the river. Some sentinels were advanced. In the course of the day the enemy sallied out for wood and water, and were opposed by our marksmen. The northern wind continues.
[To be continued.]
[The New York Herald, June 25, 1836]
ALMONTE'S JOURNAL OF THE MEXICAN CAMPAIGN. NO. 3
Taking of Bexar--Reinforcement of the Enemy from La Bahía--Firing from the Alamo-Almonte's opinion of the Campaign--Capture of San Patricio--Council of War on Assaulting the Alamo--Santa Anna Undecided.
We continue our translations from this highly interesting document. Some of the opinions and transactions recorded are quite curious. This portion of the Journal brings us down to the Council of War at which was deliberated the assault of the Alamo, in which Travis and his brave companions were massacred.
Journal Continued.
Saturday 27th.--The northern wind was strong at day break, and continued all the night. Thermometer at 39°. Lieutenant Manuel Menchacho was sent with a party of men for the corn, cattle, and hogs at the Ranchos (small farms) of Seguin and Flores. It was determined to cut off the water from the enemy on the side next to the old mill. There was little firing from either side during the day. The enemy worked hard to repair some entrenchments. In the afternoon the President was ob- served by the enemy and fired at. In the night a courier ex- traordinary was dispatched to the city of Mexico, informing the Government of the taking of Bexar, [1] and also to Gen'ls Urrea, Filisola, Cos & Vital Fernandez. No private letters were sent.
Sunday, 28th.--The weather abated somewhat. Thermometer at 40° at 7 A. M. News were received that a reinforcement to the enemy was coming by the road from La Bahia, in number 200. [2] It was not true. The canonading was continued.
Monday 29th.--The weather changed--thermometer at 55°; in the night it commenced blowing hard from the west. In the afternoon the battalion of Allende took post at the east of the Alamo. The President reconnoitered. One of our soldiers was killed in the night. The wind changed to the north at mid- night, about that time Gen. Sesma left the camp with the cavalry of Dolores and the infantry of Allende to meet the enemy com- ing from La Bahia or Goliad to the aid of the Alamo. Gen'l Castrillon on guard.
March 1st.--The wind subsided, but the weather continued cold--thermometer at 36° in the morning--day clear. Early in the morning Gen. Sesma wrote from the Mission de la Espador that there was no such enemy, and that he reconnoitered as far as the Tinaja, without finding any traces of them. The cavalry returned to camp, and the infantry to this city. At 12 o'clock the President went out to reconnoitre the mill site to the north west of the Alamo. Lieut. Col. Ampudia was com- missioned to construct more trenches.--In the afternoon the enemy fired two 12 pound shots at the house of the President, one of which struck the house, and the other passed it. [3] Nothing more of consequence occurred. Night cold—thermometer 34° Farenheit, and 1 ° Reaumur.
Wednesday, 2d.--Commenced clear and pleasant—thermom-
eter 34°--no wind. An Aid of Col. Duque arrived with des- patches from Arroyo Hondo, dated 1st inst.; in reply, he was ordered to leave the river Medina, and arrive the next day at 12 or 1 o'clock. Gen. J. Ramirez came to breakfast with the President. Information was received that there was corn at the farm of Sequin [Seguin], and Lieut. Menchaca was sent with a party for it. The President discovered, in the afternoon, a covered road within pistol shot of the Alamo, and posted the battalion of Jimenes there. At 5 A. M. Bringas went out to meet Gaona.
Thursday, 3d.--Commenced clear, at 40°, without wind. The enemy fired a few cannon and musket shots at the city. I wrote to Mexico and to my sister, directed them to send their letters to Bexar, and that before 3 months the campaign would be ended. [4] The General-in-Chief went out to reconnoitre. A battery was erected on the north of the Alamo within musket shot. Official despatches were received from Gen. Urrea, an- nouncing that he had routed the colonists at San Patricio--kill- ing 16 and taking 21 prisoners. [5] The bells were rung. The battalions of Zapaderes, Aldama, and Toluca arrived. The enemy attempted a sally in the night at the Sugar Mill, but were repulsed by our advance.
Friday, 4th.--The day commenced windy, but not cold-- thermometer 42°. Commenced firing very early, which the enemy did not return. In the afternoon one or two shots were fired by them. A meeting of Generals and Colonels was held, at which Generals Cos, Sesma, and Castrillon were present; (Gen- erals Amador and Ventura Mora did not attend--the former having been suspended, and the latter being in active commis- sion.) Also present, Colonels Francisco Duque, battalion of Toluca--Orisñuela, battalion of Aldama--Romero, battalion of Matamoros--Arnat, battalion of Zapadores, and the Major of battalion of San Luis.--The Colonels of battalions of Jimenes and San Luis did not attend, being engaged in actual commission. I was also called. After a long conference, [6] Cos, Castrillon, Orisñuela, and Romero were of the opinion that the Alamo should be assaulted--first opening a breach with the two cannon of -- and the two mortars, and that they should wait the arrival of the two 12 pounders expected on Monday the 7th. The President, Gen. Ramirez, and I were of opinion that that [sic] the 12 pounders should not be waited for, but the as- sault made.--Colonels Duque and Arnat, and the Major of the San Luis battalion did not give any definite opinion about either of the two modes of assault proposed. In this state things remained--the General not making any definite resola- tion [sic]. In the night the north parapet was advanced towards the enemy through the water course. A Lieutenant of Engineers conducted the entrenchment. A messenger was despatched to Urrea.
[To be continued.]
Notes
[1] "Taking of Bexar"--this was the first signal victory gained by Santa Anna himself over the Texians. It appears to have chee'red up their spirits wonderfully. So overjoyed were they that no private letters were written--no time--all was "pomp and circumstance of glorious war."
[2] La Bahia or Goliad was situated on the west side of the river San Antonio, on the banks of one of whose tributaries is Bexar or the Alamo. Col. Fannin's command was stationed at Goliad--the main Texian army under Gen'l Houston had re- treated at that time to the east of the Colorado.
[3] These twelve pounders came very near levelling Santa Anna in the dust. Travis in this showed them good gunnery.
[4] "Wrote to my sister"--"before three months the cam- paign will be ended." What a flood of reflections these recorded sentiments of poor Almonte create! At the last accounts he was a close prisoner of war at Velasco on the mouth of the Brassos. When his sister hears of his sad fate what a burst of grief and sisterly affection! Even in the midst of war these sentiments cannot be controuled. "Wrote to my sister!" This simple passage has raised Almonte higher in our estimation than all his talents--his brief--energetic mind. He was the sole cause and occasion of the war in Texas. He stimulated Santa Anna to that expedition. Standing before the Alamo-- measuring over his various fortunes--he exultingly predicts that Texas will be reduced in three months--and that he will return in triumph to Mexico, where he can embrace with the affection of a brother his beloved sister. With all his errors, Almonte's heart breaks out in the right spot--honorable to himself and to human nature.
[5] This was their second victory and their ringing the bells is highly characteristic. San Patricio is a small place on the eastern bank of the Rio de las Nueces near the bay of that name. It formed the extreme right of the base of Santa Anna's operations.
[6] "After a long conference, &c." Here is a remarkable disclosure. Cos who had been released by the Texians on parole, is the first to advise an assault upon the handful of brave men in the Alamo. Almonte also is for immediate assault. This disclosure ought to decide the question of life and death as affecting Gen. Cos. He has justly forfeited his life according to the rules of war.
END OF PART ONE
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Post by neferetus on Nov 4, 2007 15:05:51 GMT -5
The next portion will contain a brief and energetic description of the assault on the Alamo itself.
[The New York Herald, June 27, 1836] ALMONTE'S JOURNAL—NO. 4
In the annexed portion there are several important par- ticulars, both political and military.
The assault of the Alamo is very briefly given. It will be observed that Almonte's account differs very essentially from what we received at the time through the Texas Papers.
Another point is the account of the news from Mexico of the election of M. Corro as President ad interim, instead of General Bravo, who was the candidate of Santa Anna. This singular fact shews that during Santa Anna's absence, his political op- ponents had gained a majority of votes in the Senate of Mexico. Here is the germ of the revolution which we expect to hear of every day from Vera Cruz. A New-Orleans paper, in the Mexican interest, stated very recently that Gen. Bravo was assembling an army of 10,000 men to recapture Texas. We doubt very much the accuracy of such statements, and wait with impatience to hear of the events which must follow Santa Anna's discomfiture at San Jacinto.
JOURNAL CONTINUED.
Saturday, March 5th.--The day commenced very moderate-- thermometer 50°--weather clear. A brisk fire was commenced from our north battery against the enemy, which was not answered, except now and then. At mid-day the thermometer rose to 68°.--The President determined to make the assault; and it was agreed that the four columns of attack were to be commanded by Generals Cos, Duque, Romero, and Morales, and second in command, Generals Castrillon, Amador, and Miñón. For this purpose the points of attack were examined by the commanding officers, and they came to the conclusion that they should muster at 12 o'clock tonight, and at 4 o'clock to morrow morning (Sunday, 6th) the attack should be made.
Sunday, 6th—At 5 A. M. the columns were posted at their respective stations, and at half past 5 the attack or assault was made, and continued until 6 A. M. when the enemy at- tempted in vain to fly, but they were overtaken and put to the sword, and only five women, one Mexican soldier (prisoner,) and a black slave escaped from instant death. On the part of the enemy the result was, 250 killed, and 17 pieces of artillery-- a flag; muskets and fire-arms taken. Our loss was 60 soldiers and 5 officers killed, and 198 soldiers and 25 officers wounded --2 of the latter General officers. The battalion of Toluca lost 98 men between the wounded and killed. I was robbed by our soldiers.
Monday, 7th.--Commenced with a north wind. A special despatch was received from Gen. Urrea, dated 3d March, from San Patricio, in which he communicated that the preceding day, at a place called Los Cohates, he attacked Dr. Grant and his party, and killed Dr. Grant and 41 of his men, and after- wards 2 out of 5 who fled. There was no loss on our side. By the 14th General Urrea would be in Goliad. The greater part of the 1st brigade arrived under command of General Gaona. The mail arrived from Matamoros and Mexico--dates to the 2d and 3d of February.
Tuesday, 8th.--Fine clear day, but cold. Letters were written to Mexico under date of 6th inst. Commenced blowing hard. I wrote to * * * *. Official reports were forwarded to-day.
Wednesday, 9th. Commenced with a violent north wind, weather not very cold. Generals Filisola, Araga, &c., &c., ar- rived. Orders to march were given to Gen'l Sesma and Colonel Gonzales. Two persons arrived from the interior to see the President. The wind continued all night.
Thursday, 10th. Day broke mild, but soon the cold north wind commenced blowing, though with clear weather. The cav- alry under command of General Audrade [sic] came in. They were quartered in the Alamo. The Commissary and the Treasury of the Army arrived.
Friday, 11th. Day pleasant, but somewhat windy. Gen'l Tolsa came in with the 3rd brigade, but the divisions of Sesma and Gonzales had already marched with four six pounders and one howitzer. Marches detailed being 9 days to Goliad, 5 to Gonzales and 14 to San Felipe.
Saturday, 12th. Day broke mild--became windy--but clear and temperate. We consumed many fish. Sesma wrote from El Salado, giving the details—-Romero likewise. The troops were reviewed in the afternoon in the Square.
Sunday, 13th. Day clear but windy. Heard mass in the Square. Very warm in the afternoon. Thermometer 85°. Nothing particular.
Monday, 14th. Cloudy and windy, and warm.--Weather cleared and the wind abated a little. The correspondence from Mexico, Monterey and Matamoros was received, and a despatch from Gen'l Urrea stating that he would be at Goliad the 14th, that is to-day.--Orders to march were issued to the battalion of Tres Villas.
Tuesday, 15th. Windy and warm. The battalion of Queretaro was ordered to march to Goliad, with one 12 pounder and the corresponding munition. To-morrow the two battalions of Queretaro and Tres Villas will march. In the afternoon the courrier was despatched to Gen'l Urrea. Accounts came from Gonzales by a Mexican that the Americans, in number 500 fled as soon as they heard of the taking of the Alamo and the ap- proach of our troops, leaving their stores and many goods, and throwing two cannon in the water, &c.&c. This was Sunday in the afternoon. The same man said that the Convention had met at Washington and declared the independence of Texas. The battalions of Guerrero and Mexico were ordered to get ready to march to Gonzales to-morrow with about 200 horses selected from Dolores and Tampico. A courier extraordinary arrived with accounts of the sickness of Gen'l Barragar [Bar- ragan] and the election of Mr. Corro as President, ad interim by 27 votes. For Bravo 18 votes, and Parres 8. This election did not please Gen'l Santa Anna; he preferred Gen'l Bravo. It is said that Gen'l Michilena voted for Bravo.
Wednesday, 16th. Accounts were received from Gen'l Ra- mirez--it was determined that Gen'l Tolsa should march with two battalions to Goliad, and he started at 3 o'clock P. M. It was also determined that I should join Sesma. Montoga left with two batallions for Goliad, to reach there in seven days. Wind continues.
[To be continued.]
[The New York Herald, June 29, 1836]
ALMONTE'S JOURNAL—NO. 5
We continue our translations from this interesting journal. Some of the distant papers doubt the authenticity of this curious document. Fools! what do they imagine us to be? The old line newspaper editors in this and every other large city, have entered into a league to discountenance and run down the small daily press. Now it happens that I was for years an editor of the largest paper in the country, and had to cut my connections with these pompous blockheads, because they were too ignorant and too stupid to make any improvement in newspapers, or to know what talent was. The efficiency of the Parisian press of New York, will soon be universally acknowledged.
As to the authenticity of Almonte's Journal, the original went on yesterday to Washington, to be exhibited to his Ex- cellency, the President of the United States.
The following portion brings the Mexican army down to the banks of the Colorado:—
JOURNAL CONTINUED.
Thursday, March 17th.--A Courier Extraordinary was des- patched to Tolsa and Sesma, and to Matamoras; one for Mexico will start to-morrow; by it go my letters for Mexico and the United States; I could not start to-day, because the mules did not arrive in time.
Friday, 18th.--At 10 A. M. we started from Bejar; at 3 leagues from Cibelo [Cibolo], we met a soldier of the company of Bejar, with dispatches from the President; he said that General Sesma left yesterday (17th) for San Felipe. General Tolsa started this afternoon from Cibelo; it was supposed he will not reach Carrizo; one and a half leagues before reaching Cibelo, we saw a large drove of horses; at half past 5 P. M., we arrived at Cibelo; encamped on the side towards Bexar about 100 yards from the river; on the other side, the grass was burnt, and the track of two persons on foot, who had been down to the river; nothing occurred during the night; we passed Rosio creek and the Tinaja; day windy and rainy.
Saturday, 19th.—At 8 A. M., left Cibelo. To the Tinaja or El Cuchillo, four leagues; to the stream of Carrizal, four leagues, --making eight leagues. We arrived at half past 3 P. M. It rained during the march. About a league and a half before arriving, we noticed a cross and bench on which it appeared some person had been shot. Rained all night. Nothing now [new?] occured. One horse was found to be tired out. We stopped one league short of the Carrizo.
Sunday, 20th.--No rain. No sun. Met a soldier who was re- turning. Found water the whole of the road. At La Perra, (farm of Judge Williams,) the houses were burnt. At half past 4 P. M., we arrived at the crossing of the river. I spoke with General Tolsa, who had not yet crossed the river. I did not cross. We killed a beef. Lost four mules, (tired out,) and one yesterday. General Tolsa collected some cattle, which were sent across the river. It rained at night until half past 9 o'clock. In the afternoon two pigs were killed.--Journeyed eight leagues.
Monday, 21st--Commenced cloudy, but cleared soon. Crossed the river with difficulty. We joined the brigade of General Tolsa and left Gonzales at 12 o'clock. We arrived at Tejoates or El Durasno, at 3 P. M. Found no people; but an individual was seen at the side of the road, who appeared like an American, and although he was followed until he lost his horse near a farm a league and a half from Gonzales, he escaped by a road which branched off at the farm. Night clear. Nothing new. Made three leagues. Passed about 9 houses on the road.
Tuesday, 22d—Commenced with a north wind, but the day clear. At night the wind fell. We started at 8, A.M., and ar- rived at River La Baca, at 3 P. M., only five leagues. The farm was abandoned before the revolution. We made two halts of an hour and a half for the baggage to come up, which had been left a long distance in the rear of the division. We passed the small branch of Piedras, (abandoned.) In the night, Capt. Montoya arrived with 100 mules, which General Sesma had ordered to meet us. Two mails also arrived. The enemy were seen on the Colorado yesterday afternoon, and three persons, Americans, showed themselves at the River Navidad. At La Baca, coming from Gonzales, and about a mile from the farm, the road from Goliad passes to Washington and Nacog- doches. On the same side, but in front of the farm, the road goes to the mouth of the La Baca, a small harbor where the ar- ticles destined to Gonzales arrived. All along the La Baca, (be- low,) the're are small farms about two leagues apart, with cattle, hogs, good pasture, and wood.
Wednesday, 23d.—-Started at 8 o'clock; in this journey (on Saturday 19th,) the Americans surprised the scouts of General Sesma, and killed two men and wounded one; we found water along the wood; at two and a half leagues we breakfasted at the stream of La Piedra, (a farm abandoned) ; at 3 P. M. ar- rived at La Navidad, 2 and a half leagues; the mules were a long time crossing, notwithstanding it was not miry; farms abandoned and with stock; at the farm de los Coates there is a good house, (abandoned) good water, and pasture; at the farms of the Navidad the road to Washington branches off as was seen by the wagon tracks; it crosses the Colorado about 7 leagues higher up than where the division was; from La Navidad to the Colorado there are 7 leagues, with three or four farms on the road.
Thursday, 24th.—A Cloudy day; left the farm at quarter past 8 o'clock and at 4 P.M.; arrived at our camp on the Colorado, passing by the farm of Los Nogales, the streams of the Alamo and San Autonito [Antoñito], which is lined with a thick wood; about a league before coming to the river, the road from Atascosito and La Bahia, of Espiritu Santo separates; in the night the Major General reconnoitered; made six leagues.
Friday, 25th.—The day clear and temperate. The division cleaned their arms. An express was sent at night to the Pres- ident, at Bejar. In the afternoon about 50 cavalry of the enemy started off in small parties, and carried with them about 12 cattle that were grazing in the plain, within sight. Nothing occurred during the night excepting a small fire in the camp.
Saturday, 26th.—Cloudy but temperate; at 6 A.M. com- menced moving, and at half past 10 o'clock started from the camp on the river, for Atascosito. On the march, received the express from the President, dated 23 inst. in which he advised the taking of Goliad. The enemy burnt some houses up the river in the morning, and in the night, it was believed the house of Mr. Wright was burnt, from whence we had started; at three leagues we encamped at 4 o'clock, having made three halts; the enemy came to reconnoitre us; the mail carrier arrived alone, and said that General Pavon remained in Gon- zales, collecting the cattle and corn from the neighboring farms; the place we encamped at was on the banks of the stream de San Antonito, about one and a half leagues from the pass of Atascosito.
Sunday, 27th.--At 7 A.M. commenced the march for the pass of Atascosito; day cloudy and showery; the road miry; at 11 o'clock we halted a quarter of a league from the river Colorado, having made 2 leagues; as soon as it cleared (at 12 o'clock) we reconnoitred; discovered none of the enemy; at 3 o'clock commenced the rafts and finished at 10 o'clock at night; we tried the crossing and worked until half past 12 o'clock without much success; it rained in the night, and the troops were drenched; no general order.
Monday, 28th.--Commenced cloudy, and rained until 8 o'clock, and afterwards at intervals; a violent gust of wind passed over the camp in the night; continued working at the rafts, and at a bridge for the infantry, but little was done at the rafts, and the bridge could not be made on account of the strength of the current; notwithstanding, we succeeded in crossing the vanguard of the Cazadores in a small canoe, after working all day; none of the enemy's scouts made their ap- pearance; a large canoe was found in the afternoon, about half a league from the c'rossing, down the river, which was ordered to be brought up; the reserve retired to the camp on the plain, at 12 o'clock (noon,) the 2d brigade only remaining at the river and on the other side, as stated above, the van-guard of the Cazadores. The General in Chief and I slept in the camp on the plain. There was no general order issued, as each camp had its commander.
[To be continued.]
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Post by neferetus on Nov 4, 2007 15:07:25 GMT -5
[The New York Herald, July 1, 1836] ALMONTE'S JOURNAL—NO. 6.
We had intended to have accompanied the last portion of this curious Journal, with some remarks of our own--but want of room compels us to put the purpose off to another day. The question of Texas will soon occupy the attention of the world.
JOURNAL CONCLUDED.
Tuesday, 29th March.— Weather cleared, and the day was warm. The remainder of the Cazadores, and the Battalions of Matamoros and Toluca, and one piece of artillery were Crossed. A new raft was finished, and a canoe found. The river com- menced rising in the night, and half past 9 o'clock, had already risen 4½ feet. The camp on the other side was reconnoitered, and signs of the enemy's camp, (apparently of about 50 men md a small cannon,) were discovered. The enemy, it appeared, had abandoned the pass the same day we arrived. A courier was dispatched to General Urrea, named Herrera, who spoke English.
Wednesday, 30th.--At daylight, the river had risen 3¼ yards, and the crossing ropes were broken 4 times. The battalion of Aldama crossed. Several showers fell. A courier was despatched to the President, advising him of the freshet. A messenger ar- rived from General Santa Anna, bringing an answer to an official communication, which General Sesma sent to him from this river, the 24th instant. The answer was dated the 26th. To me he says, he had marched, (I infer,) to Goliad. Lieut. Ramirez went out with 17 men to reconnoitre.
Thursday, 31st.--Commenced cloudy. The river fell some. It rained some during the day. The remainder of the battalion of Aldama crossed with its baggage and supplies; the artillery and park likewise. A courier arrived from General Urrea from the Village of Victoria, bringing dates of the 27th March, stating that by the 29th or 30th, he would start for Matagorda. A reply was dispatched the same day, stating that we should be in San Felipe by the 5th of April. A canoe and a boat were discovered; also some cattle on the other side of the river, and two Americans about half a league distant. Guerrero came to the crossing place.
Friday, April 1st.--Commenced with a little rain. The weather continued temperate. The cattle, pack saddles, the rest of the division of Aldama, the supplies, horses, mules, and the Con- ductor General of the Equipage were all crossed. Six Amer- icans were discovered up the river on the other side, who took to the woods; three were on foot, and three on horseback. Two or three cows were caught. Proceedings were instituted against Captain Ruiz, Purveyor of the division. In the night, an American was caught, called Smith, supposed to be of those who were routed at Goliad.
Saturday, 2d.--Commenced with rain. The prisoner was brought out; nothing was ascertained from him; he said he knew nothing of the taking of Goliad, nor where the army of the Colonists was. A courier with dispatches from General Urrea arrived, dated at Victoria, 30th March, and stating that he would be at Matagorda by the 4th. Two soldiers were drowned by the upsetting of a canoe. Two negroes (slaves,) a man and woman presented themselves. They discovered where there was corn and salt. The Purveyor still remained suspended.
Sunday, 3d.--Fine weather--day clear. Dates were received from the General in Chief from Bexar, of 29th March, in reply to dispatches of the 25th, and stating that he was coming on with 600 men, and a howitzer, which would start the 31st. The Courier said he saw some cattle on the other side of the river, and that he caught 8 mules and a mare--that the mes- senger, who went from here to Bexar on the 30th, was followed by some Americans, and was obliged to abandon his horse. We all crossed the river, and the division finished crossing at about 12 o'clock. We sent one of the American prisoners (Smith) to reconnoitre the pass of Luis, and he returned about 5 o'clock in the afternoon, saying, that the Americans had abandoned the country, and the trenches which they had made on the bank of the river, and had taken the road to San Felipe de Austin, with cattle, &c.--that they had not burnt the houses, and that he did not see a single inhabitant on the road, nor a single track.
Monday, 4th--At 6 A.M., the division took up its march for the pass at Louis or Dewes or Mosely, about 4 leagues from Atascosito; road good for 3 leagues, and 1 league, from Mosely's to the river, bad and miry. The night overtook us on the bad road, and we slept there. General Wall remained at the river exploring. The ferry at Madame Beeson is 2½ leagues from Atascosito, and 1½ leagues from Mosely's or Dewe's and from there to the river 1 league. Some iron tools, and 2 cables were found in the house of Mosely. The President arrived at Atas- cosita in the night.
Tuesday, 5th.--The division returned, and the President was now in the camp, with his staff. General Wall did not come in until half past 10 o'clock, A.M., nor did the 2 Americans. In the night, the President's baggage arrived.
Wednesday, 6th.--Heavy thick clouds. A courier came in from General Gaona with despatches, dated on the Colorado, (Bastrop.) According to the courier's statement, he had taken various effects. At a quarter past 9 o'clock we started from the river, and at 12 we arrived at the stream of San Bernardo, 5 leagues distant. The infantry arrived at 3 o'clock. We camped on the side of the road, on the left bank of the river.
Thursday, 7th.--At 2 in the morning General Santa Anna advanced towards San Felipe with 80 horses and 200 of the Cazadores, for the purpose of taking the town by surprise by daylight. But his object was defeated, as day broke before reaching it. Took a prisoner notwithstanding, who gave us in- formation about the enemy: that they were 70 in number on the other side of the river, and from 700 to 800 were higher up the river, at the house of Mr. Gross. They had thrown up a breastwork -- two of their men were killed by grape shot. The division arrived at half past 10—distance 5½ leagues.
Friday, 8th.—In San Felipe. At daylight commenced en- trenchment on the bank of the river opposite to the enemy, where were placed two six pounders.--Yesterday began two rafts. It was determined to march on.
Saturday, 9th.--At 5 A.M., we left San Felipe with the choice companies of Guerreros, Matamoras, Mexico, and Toluca, and 50 cavalry of the regiment of Tampico and Dolores. At half past 12 o'clock we arrived at the farm of Colls, and another a mile beyond -- in all 6½ leagues. Three Americans were seen who took the road to Marion, or Orazimba, (Old Fort,) and leading to Thompson's ferry. We found at the farm a family from La Baca, who came by the way of the Brassos. -- Various articles were also found. The husband of the woman was a mulatto, the woman white. We sent Wilson (the mulatto) to reconnoitre at Marion, that is, at the ferry. He did not return. It rained some in the night, and the wind changed to the north.
Sunday 10th.--We remained at Coll's farm, waiting for our scout. The farm is on the left bank of the river San Bernardo. At a house 7 leagues from the farm, on the road leading to the Colorado, there were 500 fanegas of corn and 20 barrels of sugar. In the afternoon the scout returned, and confirmed the accounts we had received of the position of the enemy. At a quarter before 4 o'clock P. M. we took up our march for Marion, or Old Fort, on the road from Brazoria. At half past 5 o'clock we made a short halt at the farm of the widow Powell, or rather at stream called Guajolota, from thence, leaving the road from Brazoria on our right, we took the left, following the wagon tracks to Marion. We marched until half past 9 at night, and made another short halt. Night dark. At 2 in the morning we commenced the march on foot, from the President down to the soldier, leaving the baggage and cavalry, for the purpose of surprising the enemy who defended the crossing place before daylight. We did not succeed, as we found the distance double what we supposed it to be. Day broke upon us at a quarter of a league from the ferry and frustrated our plan. We then placed the men in ambush. The stream of Guajolota is 7½ leagues from Marion, road level, with some miry places.
Monday, 11th.--Still in ambush. A negro passed at a short distance and was taken. He conducted us to the place he had crossed at, and having obtained a canoe we crossed without being perceived, a little below the principal crossing place. In the mean time the cavalry arrived at Marion and took possession of the houses. The enemy retired on the other side, and kept up a fire for a long time, until the Cazadores under command of Bringas crossed at the lower ford, and ascending the river, and were about to take them in the rear, when they abandoned Marion, and we remained in possession of the ferry, one canoe, and a flat boat. A courier was dispatched to General Sesma, with orders that he should come up with the whole division. The Cazadores slept on the other side of the river. Rain during the night.
Tuesday, 12th.—-Day clear and fine. Was occupied in pro- curing the canoes and going up in the flat boat to Thompson's ferry. A Mexican and a Prussian came in. The Mexican is the son of Delgardo. In the afternoon the boat was injured. A courier came in from Guadaloupe and from General Sesma. Wrote to Urrea at Matagorda.
Wednesday, 13th--The boat was repaired. The division of General Sesma arrived. Many articles were found. General Urrea and F. V. Fernandez were written to. Despatches ar- rived from Urrea and Filisola.
Thursday, 14th.--We crossed the river early with our beds only and provisions for the road. At 3 in the afternoon we started from Thompson's ferry.
Friday, 15th.-—At Harrisburg. [in pencil.]
Saturday, 16th.—At Lynchburg. [in pencil.]
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Post by seguin on Nov 4, 2007 20:33:50 GMT -5
Wow! - That´s a very interesting document! So the actual battle at the Alamo only lasted from 5.30 to 6.00! Only 30 min. - That´s the shortest time span I´ve ever read. Of course, it does´nt include the "mobbing up" operations, but still. Thanks, for posting this, Ned!
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Post by neferetus on Nov 4, 2007 20:57:52 GMT -5
Based upon Almonte's account of the assault, it is easy to see how overall casualties may've been lower than previously believed, when just 1/2 hour into the assault, the Texian breakout attempt is already in effect.
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Post by seguin on Nov 5, 2007 16:18:45 GMT -5
Yes, there´s a limit to how many you can shoot in 30 min. with mainly flintlocks, which takes 20-30 sec. to reload. If Almonte is correct then it seems like the defenders cannons did´nt kill many soldados...
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Post by neferetus on Nov 5, 2007 16:38:55 GMT -5
Many people do not want to face the fact that the Texians were amatuers trying to stand up to a professional army. This makes them all the more heroic, in my eyes.
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