Alamo History, Visitor Info, Pictures, & Much More

A new generation crosses the line

By Wade Dillon

 

The baby boomer era gave the world a wealth of knowledge and understanding that we'll always be grateful for. That era also produced most of the people that are part of the Alamo field today. There is a fear that because my generation isn't as historically influenced as those of the past, that the Alamo won't always be remembered. Well, I beg to differ. 

 

Squirrel huntin'

As I took part in the Alamo reenactments from the 4th and the 5th and finally on the 6th during the Dawn ceremony, I saw an amazing amount of youngsters and teens taking in what they watched and jumped to the chance to ask someone as myself, who was dressed in Crockett-like attire, questions about the Shrine of Texas Independence.

Preparing to retreat

A father with four sons had suddenly crowded me before the battle reinactment and the little boys, whose ages ranged from 4 to 8, bombarded me with questions and told me facts about the Alamo. Their eyes lit up and the four year old was bouncing up and down at the sight of my coonskin cap. He mumbled about scenes from John Wayne's film and another about the IMAX film "Price of Freedom." I was overwhelmed, because the little one reminded me of myself at his age and I also understood the importance of keeping alive a story as pivotal as the Alamo is. And a scene remoniscent from Hancock's 2004 film, the last face I saw before I swung my rifle at the oncoming soldados was the four year old; his face full of excitement.

     

About to go down swingin'!

I also saw my share of buckskin clad defenders as they stood close to their parents and firing their pop guns. I'm only eighteen, but it was an amazing sight to see all of these kids and teenagers wrapping themselves around the history of the Alamo. It allows me to accept the fact that the Alamo as well as the events surrounding it will always be remembered; even for another one hundred and seventy one years.

 

    Remember the Alamo!

The discussion continues at the Alamo Site Forums...