The Alamo Defenders: David P. Cummings

CUMMINGS, DAVID P.

(1809-1836)

Born in Pennsylvania, David Cummings graduated from Jefferson College in Canonsberg, PA in 1835.  Upon graduation, he left by boat, initially arriving in New Orleans and reaching his final destination in Texas in mid-December, 1835.  His initial plans were to join a ranger unit for action against the Indians.  During a transaction in which he sold his best rifle for $30, he encountered Sam Houston.  Cummings gave Houston a letter of introduction from his father, David Cummings, who was an officer in the war of 1812 and served in the Pennsylvania legislature.  As a result, Houston instructed Cummings to proceed to Goliad and would rendezvous with him later.  Cummings traveled to Gonzales and then San Antonio, joining the garrison in early 1836.  As a surveyor, Cummings departed San Antonio in mid-February to survey lands titled to him located in Cibolo Creek.  He then returned to San Antonio and joined relief forces to enter the Alamo.  He died in battle on March 6, 1836.

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