Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 16, 1836 - After an all night march, the Mexican foot soldiers with Santa Anna’s company straggled into Harrisburg all day long. Almont... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 16, 1836 - After an all night march, the Mexican foot soldiers with Santa Anna’s company straggled into Harrisburg all day long. Almonte with 50 mounted men leave Harrisburg at 5 p.m. to go to Lynch’s Ferry and New Washington/Morgan's Point looking for government stragglers. About this time General Santa Anna sent dispatch to General Filisola to send General Cós with 500 "chosen" infantry. Gaona should be approaching San Felipe. General Urrea is marching from Matagorda to the San Bernard River.
The steamer Cayuga left Lynchburg early in the morning with the Provisional Government, bound for Galveston. Government transferred to the armed privateer Flash at Morgan's Point. President Burnet got off and spent the night at Morgan's Point. The Flash moved offshore about 2 miles in the direction of Red Fish Bar and spent the night.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Praise the Lord, we are moving against the enemy. May the justice of our mission be realized against the tyrant of the land.
"Due to an early morning rain, our march today did not begin until 10 a.m. It was three miles to Abram Roberts’ place near New Kentucky on Spring Creek and we stopped briefly. Mr. Roberts has served in the army and has been a staunch supporter of the cause. No one is sure if the General ordered the men to take the right fork which leads to Harrisburg and certain confrontation with the enemy, or if the head of the column simply turned on its own when Mr. Roberts pointed the way. The civilians traveling with the army did not follow, but continued on the left fork of the road to Liberty on the Trinity River. There was an incident involving Mrs. Mann. At Groce's’ she lent her oxen teams to pull the two cannons. She caught up with the army several miles after the turn and demanded her oxen back since she had understood that the army was going to Liberty and the eastern border. General Houston protested, but to no avail. She was quite forward in taking possession of her oxen and Wagon Master Capt. Rohrer took up the army protest. He sadly underestimated the conviction and determination of that woman. I am afraid that it has so broke his spirit that his effectiveness has been greatly weakened. Anyway, the day’s trip was on a level, boggy prairie that frequently gave way to wagon wheels. Even the General would assist in pushing the wagons out of the damnable mud. We arrived at dark at Burnett’s and fatigue kept the camp quiet all night."
Today marks 77 years since one of the most horrendous occurrences in Texas and U.S. history - The Texas City Disaster.
"The Texas City disaster was an industrial accident that occurred April 16, 1947... View MoreToday marks 77 years since one of the most horrendous occurrences in Texas and U.S. history - The Texas City Disaster.
"The Texas City disaster was an industrial accident that occurred April 16, 1947, in the Port of Texas City. It was the deadliest industrial accident in U.S. history, and one of the largest non-nuclear explosions. Originating with a mid-morning fire on board the French-registered vessel SS Grandcamp (docked in the port), her cargo of approximately 2,200 tons (approximately 2,100 metric tons) of ammonium nitrate detonated, with the initial blast and subsequent chain-reaction of further fires and explosions in other ships and nearby oil-storage facilities. It killed at least 581 people, including all but one member of the Texas City fire department. The disaster triggered the first ever class action lawsuit against the United States government, under the then-recently enacted Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), on behalf of 8,485 victims."
~ Wikipedia
The museum in Texas City is well worth the visit to view more history of the disaster.
409 6th Street N
Texas City, TX 77590
Today in US History
The 159th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. (1865)
The 112th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic. (1912)... View MoreToday in US History
The 159th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. (1865)
The 112th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic. (1912)
The 72nd anniversary of the first flight of the B-52 Stratofortress. (1952)
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence
Apr 15, 1836 - Santa Anna reached William Stafford's plantation by noon and feasted until mid-afternoon. They burned to plantation and force... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence
Apr 15, 1836 - Santa Anna reached William Stafford's plantation by noon and feasted until mid-afternoon. They burned to plantation and force marched on to Harrisburg. The vanguard reached Harrisburg just before midnight. Three printers were captured, and it was learned that Burnet and his cabinet had left just a few hours earlier. Santa Anna has his army set fire to Harrisburg. Santa Anna learns that Sam Houston is still at Groce’s , with less than 800 men and two 4# cannons. General Vincente Filisola arrives at San Felipe in the morning and then headed south along the Old Fort road to link up with Sesma & Santa Anna.
General Filisola arrives at Old Fort to learn that Santa Anna has left for Harrisburg. General Sesma is still at Old Fort. General Gaona has not arrived at San Felipe yet. General Urrea left Matagorda, leaving 230 infantry and a 12 pound cannon to defend the place. Heading to Columbia on the Brazos River.
The Republic of Texas Interim Government, having been warned that Santa Anna was marching towards Harrisburg, left Harrisburg at noon by boat for Galveston. That night the Cayuga stopped at Lynch’s with President David Burnet, Temporary secretary of state Bailey Hardeman, acting secretary of war David Thomas & all inhabitants of Harrisburg. The Cayuga was towing the Schooner William and four open boats filled with evacuees. The Cayuga spent the night. Vice president Lorenzo de Zavala stopped at his house nearby.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Baker and Martin have arrived back at camp with their commands. Martin is particularly outspoken in his criticism of General Houston’s command. Martin’s impatience to fight and his frustration at having failed to prevent the enemy from crossing the Brazos has tested the friendship bond that once linked him with Houston. The General took the diplomatic approach by relieving Martin of command and “reassigning” him to organize the swelling band of civilian refuges following the army.
"Martin’s company continues with the army.
"This morning we left Donoho’s by way of the middle road. The upper road, or left fork, leads to Robbin’s Ferry on the Trinity River and then to Nacogdoches and Louisiana. The middle road leads to the Spring Creek settlement of New Kentucky and then on to Liberty on the Trinity. The lower road, or right fork, leads back to San Felipe on the Brazos. Colonel Sidney Sherman was in the lead with the Second Regiment. The march today was approximately eighteen miles on a nearly impassable muddy road. Although better disciplined and equipped now, the army is a pitiful sight to behold attempting to maintain its composure as it struggles its way through the mud. Upon arrival at Samuel McCarley’s place, any consumable livestock and crops were requisitioned and again, rail fences and post were used as firewood. The army how contains about 1,100 men.
"The camp is in great turmoil tonight as we grow closer to another decision point of turning south. The next fork would take us towards Harrisburg. Will we engage the enemy or continue our eastward fallback to the Trinity River? The General continues his silence and private company. The whole matter is quite taxing."
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 14, 1836 - Santa Anna, only 30 miles up the Brazos River from Harrisburg, learned that President Burnet and his advisors were there. He... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 14, 1836 - Santa Anna, only 30 miles up the Brazos River from Harrisburg, learned that President Burnet and his advisors were there. He decided to move one column of his army towards Harrisburg in the hope of capturing the interim government representatives. Santa Anna and his troops crossed the Brazos River at Thompson’s Ferry.
The secretary of state of the Ad Interim Government of the Republic of Texas writes from Natchitoches, Louisiana, of meeting U.S. Army General Edmund P. Gaines about his orders relating to his deploying troops in western Louisiana. Has heard of Indians in eastern Texas readying to aid Mexican forces in the Texas Revolution.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"We had a short march today to this place (Donoho‘s Plantation). General Houston has recalled all of the army units to assemble at this point. Major Wiley Martin has communicated that he had inadequate forces to prevent the enemy from crossing the lower Brazos river, but that he gave a fine account of the forces at his command in numerous engagements. He is presently in route to this place, escorting some retiring families. He has about 46 men under his command.
"Mr. Donoho is not sympathetic to our cause, and therefore the men take every advantage they can of this man. Although he forbade them to cut timber for fires, the men are in the process of burning all of Donoho’s fence rails. Being dry, they make better firewood anyway. And to make matters worse, a party is planned for this evening in Donoho’s house. I suspect he will not put in an appearance as his health might become endangered.
"As to the direction of the march, and the plans for engagement, General Houston continues to be very quiet. I assume he fears enemy spies. He is waiting for the arrival of Baker and Martin’s commands to strengthen our numbers. In the meanwhile he has sent our more spies to properly assess the present strength and location of the enemy since much has happened recently. I am pleased that he has Rusk to consult with, as he takes no council from any others."
The Lone Star Republic
-Don Gray, reporting from Groce’s Plantation on the Brazos River, April 14, 1836
TEXAS ARMY FINISHED WITH DRILLS AND CROSSES THE BRAZOS RIVER
Today the Texas Army completed it two-day crossing of the Brazos River and is now on the river’s east bank. The army had been camped at Groce’s Plantation (west bank of the river) for the past two weeks while drilling for battle. The riverboat “Yellowstone” was used to help with the crossing of nearly 1,000 men and supplies. Following the crossings, the Yellowstone turned down river to aid in the evacuation of civilians to Galveston Island.
Sources report that large numbers of Mexican forces will be encountered about 20 miles downstream. The Yellowstone will be protected by large bales of cotton to shroud the passengers and crew from the Mexican Army’s small arms fire that is expected.
The Texas Army is marching to the southeast by way of the road to Harrisburg. Hundreds of civilians are accompanying the march, hoping that Sam Houston’s march will lead them toward the safety of the US and away from Mexican forces.
Some of Sam Houston’s officers reported that Houston’s continued refusal to attack the enemy may result in his ouster from commanding the troops. Houston refused to comment other than to say that he is keeping his own counsel and seeking no one’s advice.
-Don Gray
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 13, 1836 - Gen. Sesma joined Santa Anna at Old Fort from San Felipe. Sesma arrived. SA learns that the Texan government is at Harrisbur... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 13, 1836 - Gen. Sesma joined Santa Anna at Old Fort from San Felipe. Sesma arrived. SA learns that the Texan government is at Harrisburg. He changes his plans to attack Houston at Groce’s Ferry and instead to capture the government. Gen. Filisola finishes crossing the Colorado at AtasCósito. There is still no word from Gaona. Urrea took possession of Matagorda at 10 AM. Town was abandoned but the warehouses full of material.
Twin Sisters finally arrive at Groce’s Ferry and are turned over to Lt. Col. James Neill. A company of nine men were assigned to each cannon. The guns were unpacked and assembled. Additional shot was prepared. The crews began drilling on firing and reloading the guns.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"The army has completed its move across the Brazos at 1 PM this afternoon and is preparing to march. General Houston holds few in his confidence at this time. The two six pound field pieces have arrived and have been assembled. Though few and small in size, I am sure that we can make them effective weapons for our cause.
"The General continues to fight rumors and makes a call for all freedom loving citizens to fight. Another open call was sent out this morning. Even Rusk issued a call for volunteers and to avenge the deaths of our murdered countrymen. It is estimated that the enemy does not exceed nine hundred men in this region and none are as far as the Trinity, as previously claimed. The General has likewise sent a dispatch to his friend Chief Bowles of the Cherokees in the Redlands urging them to remain neutral in the conflict. Word has been received that the Coushatta are assisting members of the runaway scrape as they travel through that region.
"A letter from the Acting Secretary of War was received today with unfavorable remarks about the conduct of this campaign. General Houston exercised great control in responding to those that would criticize without the knowledge of the true circumstances. The spectators would demand certainty and miracles yet retain their distance from the realities of the situation. One would wonder who was the worst enemy, the invading army or the critical politicians.
"General Houston has directed our scattered forces to assemble at the house of a settler named Donoho. It is apparent that we will be traveling east, to what objective is unknown."
Today in U.S. History
At 4:30 a.m. on April 12, 1861, Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor. Less than 34 hours later, Union forces surrendered. Traditionally,... View MoreToday in U.S. History
At 4:30 a.m. on April 12, 1861, Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor. Less than 34 hours later, Union forces surrendered. Traditionally, this event has been used to mark the beginning of the Civil War.
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 12, 1836 – President David G. Burnet and his cabinet barely escape the arriving Mexican army. Colonel Juan Almonte decides not to shoot... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 12, 1836 – President David G. Burnet and his cabinet barely escape the arriving Mexican army. Colonel Juan Almonte decides not to shoot the fleeing party.
Sesma receives orders to march to Thompson’s crossing at Old Fort to join Santa Anna. Filisola is still moving the baggage train across the Colorado River. No communications as to where Gaona is located. Urrea leaves Tres Palacios Creek and heads toward Matagorda. He and his troops travel five leagues from Cayce’s to the left bank of the Colorado River.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"The order has been issued by General Houston that we are to cross over the Brazos to the east bank. The steamboat Yellow Stone and a small yawl have been impressed into service for that purpose. The first division of the first regiment under Col. Burleson will remain as the rear Guard until further orders are issued. The removal started at 10 a.m. this morning and will probably take a couple of days to effect.
"Volunteers continue to arrive. Peter Bell arrived yesterday on his 26th birthday, having walked up from Brazoria. Today, a Georgian by the name of Mirabeau B. Lamar arrived from Harrisburg. He reports that the provision government is still in that place. Lamar likewise reported that Capt. Smith had left Harrisburg on the 9th with two small iron cannons, assumed to be the six pounders previously landed at Velasco. They were being transported by horses and due to the conditions of the roads, Lamar passed the convoy on his way here. The field pieces should arrive tomorrow, if not later today. The spirit of the Artillery corp. is high."
The Lone Star Republic
-Don Gray, reporting from Fort Bend, Texas, April 12, 1836
SANTA ANNA PERSONALLY SEIZES CONTROL OF A FERRY BOAT
Today Santa Anna leaped from hiding in ambush and wrestled a slave controlling a ferry boat to gain control of a crucial ferry boat needed to cross the Brazos River at Thompson’s Crossing near Fort Bend. The Mexican Army is now using the ferry to cross some 2,000 troops across the river. The availability of the ferry to the Mexican Army will have a profound effect on their speediness in executing their drive of all Anglos from Texas.
-Don Gray
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 11, 1836 - Santa Anna found a crossing of the Brazos at Old Fort. It is called the Lower or Thompson’s Crossing. General Almonte spoke ... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 11, 1836 - Santa Anna found a crossing of the Brazos at Old Fort. It is called the Lower or Thompson’s Crossing. General Almonte spoke good English and convinced the ferryman on the opposite bank to come over to pick up some runaway scrape settlers. Having secured a crossing, Santa Anna sent orders to Sesma & Filisola to join him there. Sesma ceases the cannonade and leaves San Felipe. Filisola and Gaona have yet to arrive there. Filisola is crossing the Colorado River at the AtasCósito crossing with the help of General Woll. It will take him several days. Urrea finally finishes crossing his army across Colorado River at Cayce’s Crossing, which took five days.
Twin Sisters are still awaiting transport to the Texian Army at Groce’s Landing. Rain soaked trails are making progress difficult.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Word has been received that the enemy has crossed the Brazos at Thompson’s ferry. Capt. Martin has withdrawn his men and they are moving northward in order not to be trapped by the Mexican army. The General has consulted with Capt. Joseph Ross, the commander of the Yellow Stone, and has determined that upwards to 500 men can be transported downstream safely due to the protection provided by the cotton bales on board the steam boat. This would allow the army to surprise the Mexican army in the south. Another option is to transport the equipment and men over to the east bank and march to a favorable battlefield to confront the enemy. There are some rumors in camp that Houston might chose to head straight to the United States border in the hopes of forcing U. S. General Gaines to bring his trained troops to the aid of the Texian army.
"The sense of the camp is that a major action is building and it is hoped that General Houston will respond directly to the challenge. There has been much dissatisfaction among the troops, the men want action and do not fully appreciate the General’s insistence on drill, discipline and patience. It is whispered that several officers have offered themselves up as replacement for Houston if he does not act."
(Note)
The Yellow Stone steamed directly into the struggle for Texas, as General Santa Anna's army overwhelmed the Alamo and pushed General Sam Houston's force eastward. In April, 1836, Houston impressed the Yellow Stone into service in order to cross the flooded Brazos River.
Built: 1830-31, Louisville, Kentucky (order placed November 24, 1830).
Type: Sidewheel, wooden hull packet.
Size: 130' x 19' x 5' 5", 144 tons.
Engine: Single cylinder.
Boilers: Three boilers.
Paddlewheels: 18' diameter.
Cost: $8,950 ($4,000 contracted for the boat, $4,950 for the steam engine).
Picture: the Steamship Yellow Stone.
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 10, 1836 – General Antonio López de Santa Anna traveling south along the west bank of the Brazos River trying to find a crossing. He st... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 10, 1836 – General Antonio López de Santa Anna traveling south along the west bank of the Brazos River trying to find a crossing. He stops briefly at Madam Powell’s Place. (Elizabeth Powell, a widow with five children. Her house, a typical dog-run style for the era, was situated on the trail from Brazoria and Columbia to San Felipe in what is now Fort Bend county near where it crossed one of the routes to San Antonio.)Sesma and Tolsa continue to cannonade the Texians. General Vincente Filisola arrived at the AtasCósito crossing of the Colorado with the baggage & equipment. General Antonio Gaona’s position still unknown.
The interim Texas government is still dealing with matters of the new Republic at Harrisburg.
Twin Sisters (cannons) are in transit to the Texian Army at Groce’s. Difficult trail due to weather, water soaked prairie and not well travelled.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"General Houston received a dispatch from Captains Baker, Kimbro, Wallace and Sutherlands stating that their position opposite San Felipe is quickly becoming indefensible. The enemy’s cannon has compromised the position. Thus far there has only been one casualty. The enemy is actively building barges in preparation of an assault upon the position and the Captains request permission to fall back. Houston has not responded as of yet to the request.
"It is becoming apparent that we must begin to act. A sizable Mexican force withdrew from San Felipe a few days back and was seen marching south. Obviously they are looking for a lower crossing on the Brazos. The situation with Capt. Wiley Martin and his defense of the Scroggins, Thompson and Old Fort crossings is not known. Martin was expecting to be reinforced by volunteers up from Velasco and Brazoria, but there is no confirmation of such reinforcement and that he will be able to hold those lower crossings. The Mexican General Urrea is known to be along the coast and might cross the Brazos further south at Velasco or possibly Brazoria and surprise Martin from the rear. Until General Houston decides what to do next, we can only drill and prepare ourselves for battle."
The Lone Star Republic
-Don Gray, reporting from Lynchburg, Texas, April 10, 1836
5,000 “RUNAWAY SCRAPE” REFUGEES CRAMMED INTO LYNCHBURG
More than 5,000 refugees are now crammed into emergency camp near Lynchburg on the San Jacinto River. The human toll of suffering is horrid. Virtually all of the Anglo populations between the Colorado and Trinity rivers are fleeing toward the Sabine River and US Territory to escape the four-prong advancing Mexican Army and it’s declared “War of Extermination”. The news of the execution of Col. Fannin’s 400 troops has created panic among the Anglo refugees. Due to the mass of people desiring to cross the San Jacinto River at Lynchburg, a wait of three days to cross by ferry is now the norm.
-Don Gray
Happy National Siblings Day!!
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 9, 1836 - Santa Anna decides to take 500 grenadiers and riflemen & 50 mounted men and search from crossings furthers down (south) river... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 9, 1836 - Santa Anna decides to take 500 grenadiers and riflemen & 50 mounted men and search from crossings furthers down (south) river. Sesma and Tolsa are still cannonading the Texian defenders but to no results. Filisola arrives at the edge of the timber on the Colorado. Woll still waiting at the Atascosito crossing of the Colorado for Filisola’s arrival. Gaona claims to be lost in the desert between Bastrop and San Felipe but is probably spending his time looting all of the farms he can find.
The Twin Sisters are off loaded from the sloop to ox-carts for transport to the Texian camp. Major Leander Smith had acquired horses to haul the ox-carts and left Harrisburg for Groce’s along with Capt. Allen and Capt Alfred Wyly.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Forty-five men have been sent to reinforce Captain Baker opposite San Felipe. This will bring his force to at least one hundred and fifty men. They hold a superior position and should be able to hold the Brazos crossing at that point despite bombardment from the two Mexican cannons. It has been learned that Private John Bricker of Baker’s command was struck down yesterday by a musket ball to the head. He is the first person to die in combat in our present campaign.
"Private James Wells, one of our spies, reports that based upon the size of the Mexican encampment at San Felipe, their strength would be numbered between six and seven hundred men. No doubt they have sent out riders looking for other favorable Brazos river crossings. The rain-swollen river offers few fording opportunities for the time being. However, the rain has ceased and the river should begin to fall soon.
"The army has now been reorganized into two regiments. Col. Edward Burleson has been appointed commander of the First Regimental Volunteers and Col. Sidney Sherman of the Second Regiment. The camp is healthy."
The first naval ensign of the Republic of Texas adopted via executive order issued by President David G. Burnet on April 9, 1836.
Wishing those who celebrate a Happy Eid al-Fitr.
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 8, 1836 – Santa Anna joins Sesma at Beason's Crossing. The cannonade and sniper fire has not dislodged Baker’s company of Texians. Mean... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 8, 1836 – Santa Anna joins Sesma at Beason's Crossing. The cannonade and sniper fire has not dislodged Baker’s company of Texians. Meanwhile barges are being built so the army can pass once it is cleared. The river is scouted north and south for an alternate crossing, but none is found nearby. Santa Anna getting impatient as he wants to end the campaign before the spring rains. Sesma commands the First Brigade and Tolsa commands the Second Brigade. Gaona commands the Third Brigade and has been ordered to march to San Felipe de Austin. However, his location and arrival is unknown. Vicente Filisola travels to the Navidad River on his way to the Colordao. Urrea is still crossing the Colorado at Cayce’s.
The Texas Navy ship, Ohio, bearing the Twin Sisters cannon, arrives at Harrisburg in the evening.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Word has been received from Captain John M. Allen that he is on march to our camp with 100 men and possibly two cannons received at Velasco from the good citizens of Cincinnati. The men in camp joyously welcome this news that field pieces are in transit. General Houston has instructed Allen to confiscate the property of those who refuse to join us and to regard those individuals as deserters from our cause.
"Shots have been heard from San Felipe and the men grow restless to know the nature of the engagement and whether the Mexican army will march north to our position. General Houston put the army on notice to be in 'readiness for action at a moment’s warning.' He has put the men on alert in order to discipline, but he feels that our camp in the bottoms is secure from any immediate attack. Any approaching army would be slow moving in the terrain and would make enough noise breaking through the cane and timber so as to alert us in amply time to prepare for any encounter."
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 7, 1836 - Gen Antonio López de Santa Anna's army reaches San Felipe de Austin with Sesma & Tolsa and find the town in ashes. Texian Mos... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 7, 1836 - Gen Antonio López de Santa Anna's army reaches San Felipe de Austin with Sesma & Tolsa and find the town in ashes. Texian Mosley Baker’s company is protecting the crossing of the Brazos River. A cannonade is set up to try to dislodge the Texians. Filisola completed the crossing of the Guadalupe River at Gonzales and begins marching towards the Atascosito crossing of Colorado River where Woll is waiting with barges to transport the camp equipment. Gaona’s situation is still unknown. Urrea started his army across the Colorado. Because the river had expanded due to the heavy spring rains it will take him five days to complete the crossing.
The Texas Navy's Sloop Ohio is traveling from New Washington to Harrisburg with the Twin Sisters on board.
From the dispatches of Col. Alexander C. Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"It is now known that the advance of the enemy, only 30 in number, arrived at San Felipe yesterday. One of our sentries was captured and the enemy knows our position, as well as the strength of our forces lead by Captain Baker on the east side of the Brazos. General Houston has issued the statement 'The moment for which we have waited with anxiety and interest, is fast approaching. The victims of the Alamo, and the names of those who were murdered at Goliad, call for cool, deliberate vengeance. Strict discipline, order and subordination will insure us the victory.'
"Regimental Quarter Master E. Winfield has been sent to Washington (-on-the-Brazos) to procure blankets, domestic for summer clothing and tents. Aide-de-camp Major James Collinsworth has been ordered to take command of the men at Washington, just north of our position, and James R. M. Williamson (Three Legged Willie) has been reprimanded for killing two Mexicans instead of sending them to us for interrogation. One can never know the source of valuable information.
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 6, 1836... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 6, 1836
San Anna, with Sesma, is heading toward the San Bernard River on the way to San Felipe. Santa Anna leaves General Woll at Atascosito with a battalion and a cavalry picket in charge to build a barge so that the artillery can cross the river as well as the 12 transport wagons, baggage and other equipment that Gen. Filisola was bringing up from the Guadalupe at Gonzales. Advance troops under Gen. Castrillon and Col. Trevino capture an American sentry. They learn that a detachment of 60 men are on the opposite side of the Brazos River. Also, that Sam Houston is north at Groce's on the west side of the Brazos with 800 men after 400 recently deserted. The river is running high and frequently flooded due to the frequent spring showers. Gaona’s situation is still unknown. Urrea occupies Cayce’s Crossing of the Colorado River and explores the area.
The Interim Government cabinet is still dealing with matters of the new Republic at Harrisburg.
The Texas Navy vessel, Flash, arrives at New Washington with the Secretary of Navy and the Twin Sisters on board before noon. The Twin Sisters are moved from the Flash to the steamboat Ohio under the command of Capt. Lt. Aaron Burns.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Dispatches from Acting Secretary of War David Thomas have been received stating that the supplies are on their way. Captain Jacob Eberly has been authorized to raise a company of 56 men. Sergeant Foard should arrive shortly with 25 men raised by Merriweather W. Smith in Alabama. Smith is too sick to bring them himself even though he is presently located at Fort Bend.
"General Houston has written Capt. Baker about rumors that Baker allowed for waste and destruction in San Felipe. Baker is supposed to have put the town to the torch, on Houston’s orders. Houston said he did not order it and that Baker might have misunderstood his order. This confusion has created a rift between the two men.
"Another deserter from the enemy has been brought into camp and confirms the previous reports about the miserable conditions of the enemy army and the lack of adequate provisioning. Our spies continue to be active in reporting the location and deplorable condition of the enemy’s camps."
Happy future First Contact Day!! (2063)
"OOBY DOOBY, OOBY DOOBY, OOBY DOOBY, OOBY DOOBY
DOO WAH DOO WAH DOO WAH DOO WAH....."
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 5, 1836 – US Army General Edmund P. Gaines (1777-1849), from his post in Natchez, Louisiana, warns the Native American populations in T... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 5, 1836 – US Army General Edmund P. Gaines (1777-1849), from his post in Natchez, Louisiana, warns the Native American populations in Texas not to interfere with the Texas revolutionary efforts. Defiance of his order will bring a military response from the US Army.
Santa Anna reached Atascosito Pass on the Colorado. Mexican General Adrián Woll assigned a battalion to construct rafts to ferry across the remainder of the army, which was arriving under General Vicente Filisola, second in command of the Mexican forces. Santa Anna then proceeds with a division to San Felipe.
General Antonio Gaona, upon new orders from Santa Anna and after an eight-day delay, abandons his occupation of Mina to proceed to San Felipe de Austin.
A. J. Yates, assisting the Texas commissioners to the U.S., writes from Baltimore to the future co-founder of the city of Houston, A. C. Allen, that he has just been in Washington. President Andrew Jackson and Congress are in favor of recognizing Texan independence and, if Texas so desires, annexation to the U.S.
Gen. Sam Houston ordered Ira Ingram, then commissioned as a major, to return to East Texas and the United States to recruit volunteers for the Texas army.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"Col. Rusk, the Secretary of War, arrived in camp last night. His support is greatly appreciated by the General. I am sure that his presence will encourage the men in our cause.
"General Houston has dispatched Captains Kimbrough and Bryant to Captain Mosley Baker’s camp opposite San Felipe on the Brazos to assist him in his defense of that position. He has also instructed Baker to protect the remaining stores at San Felipe.
"Major Ira Ingram has been dispatched to the east to raise men and forward troops for the service of the Army of Texas. Houston plans to concentrate his forces at this place and feels that the enemy currently offers no threat due to their high losses at the Alamo and in combat with Fannin before his surrender.
"Suspicious persons are being detained in order to stem the flow of information to the enemy. Although men are regularly leaving camp, it is their intention of putting in this season’s corn crop with the hostilities now at a lull and that they will return once their mission is accomplished.
"There is little more to report as the daily routine of drills continues, so I will retire early and hope for good news tomorrow."
The Lone Star Republic
-Don Gray, reporting from Groce’s Plantation, Texas, April 5, 1836
UPDATES
General Sam Houston and his troops remain at Groce’s Plantation on the Brazos River conducting drills. Houston’s scouts continue to keep Houston informed as to the advancement of the various branches of the Mexican Army as they move eastward. Houston and his men arrived at Groce’s Plantation on March 31.
Yesterday a Texian soldier was spared execution. Execution had been ordered for dereliction of duty after falling asleep while on guard post duty. The soldier is only 18 years old and has no prior military experience. The soldier was very apologetic.
Today the commanding general of US troops massed on the Louisiana border issued orders to his commanders along the border to prevent Texians and Mexicans from crossing the border into Louisiana with arms.
-Don Gray
Today in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 4, 1836 - General Antonio López de Santa Anna had taken to the field and caught up with Generals Tolsa and Ramírez y Sesma at the Colo... View MoreToday in Texas History
On the trail to Texas independence.
Apr 4, 1836 - General Antonio López de Santa Anna had taken to the field and caught up with Generals Tolsa and Ramírez y Sesma at the Colorado and pressed them forward to San Felipe de Austin in pursuit of Houston. The two generals took their time crossing the Colorado and were waiting for Santa Anna. Santa Anna had sent word to General Antonio Gaona in the north to meet him at San Felipe, but Gaona “got lost in the desert between Bastrop and Washington (-on-the-Brazos).” General José de Urrea was moving slowly up the coast as he encountered scattered Texian groups and waited for his supply train to catch up.
The interim government cabinet is still dealing with matters of the new Republic at Harrisburg.
Capt. J. M. Allen had left Brazoria with the Twin Sisters and was marching back to the Texian Army by way of Harrisburg. Before his arrival he met Major Leander Smith who was traveling from Houston’s camp to Brazoria to get the Twins. Allen told him that Quartermaster had taken control of the guns and were sending them to Galveston. When Allen arrived later at Harrisburg he told Secretary David Thomas (acting Secretary of War in Thomas Rusk’s absence) that the guns were being sent to Galveston. Thomas sent the Steamboat Ohio to go get the guns in Galveston and bring them back to Harrisburg.
Houston was now aware that actual cannon were being sent his way. He had previously sent for cannon but only to discover that there were no cannon, only fabricated reports. Now he had concrete evidence and stalling for time was in his favor.
Two men were court martialed for dereliction of duty and were to be shot on the 4th. Private Scales, who was granted mercy due to his mental condition at the time, and John P. Garner.
From the dispatches of Alexander Horton, Sam Houston's aide-de-camp:
"The firing squad for John P. Garner was formed, his grave was dug and the prisoner placed at one end for the completion of his sentence from April 1st. At that moment, General Houston granted him mercy with a reprieve. Houston proclaimed that he would rather spare the lives of all that would be useful to the Country, but any future crimes of mutiny and desertion will be dealt with according to the Law. What an experience, and one that will undoubtedly insure better discipline among the men.
"The General feels secure with this place, as the bottoms nearby will soon overflow with the rain we have experienced. If the weather continues we may have to move again, either out beyond the timer, or to cross the Brazos for higher ground. He is most concerned that the horses be protected from the enemy, as they are our only burden for travel. He expects the Mexican army to possibly move south to visit Matagorda and then Velasco and has therefore instructed his agents and the government to land provisions at Galveston and to bring them overland to this camp. If we cross over the Brazos, which we can do only with the aid of the steamboat Yellowstone, we will drop down opposite Fort Bend. With the state of the river and that to come due to the continued rains, the enemy will not be able to cross for at least a month. As for the moment, Capt. Kimbro has been ordered to join Capt. Baker opposite San Felipe and keep that crossing secure."
Side note: On this day in 1836, Sarah Ann Horn was captured by Comanche Indians near the Nueces River. Her family was traveling from the failed Dolores settlement, in Beadles’ Rio Grande colony, hoping to reach the port of Matamoros. The Comanche killed several men, including John Horn, Sarah's husband.
After capture, Sarah was separated from her children, and in 1837, American traders ransomed her at a trading rendezvous in New Mexico.
She moved in 1838 to Missouri, where writer E. House recorded her account of her captivity, published the following year as “A Narrative of the Captivity of Mrs. Horn, and Her Two Children.” Sarah Horn died in 1839 from injuries sustained during her captivity.
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