The Texas War of Independence 1835–1836

Just after noon, the bell rang and the sentry called, ""the enemy are in view!"" Travis dispatched John Sutherland and John Smith to reconnoiter. Just over the Alazan Heights, west of town, the two came upon the Dolores Cavalry Regiment (Reinforced), preparing to attack the town. Upon their return to Béxar at the gallop, Travis ordered a full retreat into the Alamo.

Defending the Alamo

As the Alamo gate closed behind the Texians (now numbering about 150 men, as well as a dozen non-combatants), the advance guard of the vanguard brigade entered Béxar. Three companies of cazadores, three of granaderos, the cavalry and two 7 in. howitzers captured San Antonio. The remainder of the vanguard bypassed San Antonio to ensure there were no federalists two miles away at the Mission Concepción. The Mexicans raised a blood-red banner over the San Fernando church, indicating that no quarter would be shown to the Texians. The 18-pdr., the heaviest cannon in the Alamo, fired in response. There would be no quarter for the Mexicans either. Soon the Texians dispatched two separate couriers asking for parley. Each time the Texians received the same response: surrender at discretion or be put to the sword.