Events for 2003 - 2004

The Battle of Gonzales, October 2, 1835 - The settlers of Gonzales defy Mexican authority and fire the first shot of the Texas Revolution

October 3-5, 2003 - "Come and Take It" Days in Gonzales, Texas. This small farming and ranching Texas town celebrates the event that placed its name into world history books forever: the "Come and Take it" flag. Mexican General Cos stationed in San Antonio sent a detachment of about 30 cavalrymen to remove from the citizens of Gonzales a small 1" bore cannon they had for protection from Indians. Several hundred Texans that had gathered in Gonzales for the building revolution stood off the Mexican troops, under a hastily made flag. It bears a cannon barrel and the soon to be famous words: "Come and Take It". In downtown Gonzales there is a parade, craft & food booths, music and much, much more. After you've seen the parade, eat and drink your fill and the music is getting to you, gather up the family and head out to the Gonzales Pioneer Village, a mile or so north of downtown. At the Pioneer Village, you can leisurely stroll amongst 19th and early 20th century homes and other buildings. While doing this you will receive a short history and insight to the life and daily routine of the 1835 Texans. You will witness various scenarios and a skirmish between the Mexican troops and the Texans. This not an actual re-enactment of the original clash, but will give you a better understanding of 1830's military tactics. On Saturday the Village is open from 12 noon till 5p.m. There is a small admission fee for entry, but it is well worth it. See you there. Click here for Reënactor/Living Historian Information  This event is  rated 3.

The Battle for Goliad, October 9, 1835 - Goliad Falls to Texian Forces

October 24-26, 2003 - Texian Market Days , at the George Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas . The George Ranch has extended the dates to include Friday, to increase the availability of schools to attend as a school function. Obviously, this means that they would like to have as many participants as possible for Friday as well as Saturday and Sunday, but it also means that setup will be Thursday the 23rd and those arriving on Friday will not be able to set up until after the Friday program is over, which is estimated to be about 2:30 pm. There will be a waiting area for those Friday arrivals who do not wish to shuttle in to participate. The four main theme areas in this timeline event are 1830s stock farm (Texas Rev), 1860s CW camp, 1880s cowboy & ranching, and 1930s ranching. Register as early as possible to allow scheduling and program work. Click here for registration form . Contact Bryan McAuley for more information. This event is  rated 3.

October 25, 2003 - 2nd Annual Col. Juan N. Seguin Memorial Picnic , Commemorating all the heroes of the Battle of San Jacinto. Time: 10:00 am - 6 pm. Where: At San Jacinto, at the Monument. This is a location change, so please take note. This has also turned into a potluck, bring a covered dish and soft drinks (sodas, tea, lemonade etc) enough to share. SDHP is seeking San Jacinto descendants as the goal of this event is to bring families together to share infomation about this historic battle. There will also be a raffle, contact SDHP for details. Contact Angel & Linda Seguin Garcia , Founders, SDHP

October 24-26, 2003 - Austin Town Festival Historic Pioneer Texas Reenactment! Share your heritage and re-live Texas history at its best. Imagine the sound of a thunderous cannon boom as the militia is called to muster and seeing Stephen F. Austin, Jane Long, and other historical characters living life as it was in their time.
Step back in time with the Brazoria County Historical Museum as it presents the Fifth Annual Austin Town on October 25-27, 2001. A living history re-enactment, Austin Town recalls and celebrates the lives of those pioneers who settled Colonial Texas from 1821 to 1836. The fictitious "Austin Town" typically features character interpreters, demonstrators, sutlers, militia drill units, and period games. The purpose of the three-day event is not only to provide an educational and entertaining experience for Brazoria County residents, but also to attract visitors from outside the County who appreciate our area's wonderful history as well.
The Austin Town site is located approximately 2 miles off of State Highway 288 on Business 288, just north of Angleton, Texas. Admission Prices are $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12 and senior citizens. Austin Town is open for school groups only on Friday, October 26. Austin Town is open to all visitors on Saturday, October 26 are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Sunday, October 27 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For more information, please contact Ace Filipp or by telephone at (979) 864-1208. Click here for Reënactor/Living Historian Information and Forms  This event is rated 3.

October 25, 2003 - "Battle of Concepción" 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Admission is free. Near the old Spanish Mission of Concepción, this battle of the Texas Revolution was fought between the Mexican military garrisoned in town and the Texian rebels. This historical encampment and battle reenactment will be presented across from Mission Concepción at 919 Mission Road, adjacent to St. Peter/St. Joseph's Children's Home. Members of the San Antonio Living History Association, using authentic flintlock muskets, long rifles and cannon of the combatants, dress in uniforms and clothing of the 1830s. The field event includes a historic encampment with period demonstrations and life skills of the 1835-36 Texas Revolution. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site.  This event is rated 3.

October 31 - November 2, 2003 - San Felipe Campout, San Felipe. This is a Texas Army event.  From Houston, travel west on Interstate 10 to FM 1458 (just before Sealy). Turn right (north) on FM 1458 and then left on Park Road 38. The camp was across the street from Stephen F Austin State Park , but the location has changed to "down by the river in the old park area.". Contact Jerry Tubbs for more details. This event is rated 3.

November 1, 2003 - San Jacinto Monument Fall Family Festival, La Porte. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. View a new archeology exhibit inside the Museum, visit living history and cultural demonstrations, such as the Texas Army Camp, cooking and camping skills, weaving, calligraphy, woodcarving, metal work and pottery, experience guided tours of the battleground, enjoy a variety of live entertainment, and much more. The event is free and open to the public. Food vendors will be on-hand to provide refreshments.  For more information, telephone the San Jacinto Museum of History at 281/479-2421 or visit www.sanjacinto-museum.org . Event Coordinator, C. David Pomeroy, Jr.  This event is rated 3.

December 6, 2003 - Battle of Béjar and the Capitulation of General Cos 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at La Villita's Maverick Plaza. Admission is free. Reenactment of the 5-day storming of Béjar (old San Antonio) and the surrender ceremonies of the Mexican garrison by General Martín Perfecto de Cos to the Texian Federalist Army. The nearby Cos House in historic La Villita is the site of the December, 1835, capitulation that gave Texian troops control of Béjar and the Alamo fortress only three months before the famous 1836 siege and battle of the Alamo. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site .  This event is  rated 3.

The Storming of Béxar, December 9, 1835 - Béxar (San Antonio) Falls to Texian Forces

December 11-14, 2003 - Candlelight Tours, Sam Houston Park in Houston. December 11, 12, 13, 2003 • 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.(except the 14th, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.) Sam Houston Park, Downtown Houston, Allen Parkway at 1100 Bagby. Enjoy Yule Tide Festivities: Historic homes, demonstrations of traditional crafts, antique toy exhibit,  and much more.

January 24, 2004 - Pilgrim's Camp and Swap Meet. Location is Dancy Farm, south of LaGrange. Folks from several different Texas Rev groups have joined together to organize this event with the goal of providing a friendly, safe, informative and fun place for "civilians" to explore their interest in living history and for "old hands" to pass on their knowledge and expertise. Camping will be available in two camps; one for modern camping and one for period camping. Meetings will be held to discuss the various levels of living history; the philosophy and goals of our avocation; weapons, clothing and tools of the period; historical research, and, above all else: safety issues. In order to provide an environment most conducive to learning, the event will be open to living historians, reënactors, interested individuals and groups, but will be closed to the general public. In conjunction with the "Pilgrim's" Camp, the "old hands" are encouraged to bring their surplus gear, equipment, clothes and accouterments for an old fashioned trading session and swap meet.  If you're a living historian interested in helping lead one of the presentations or simply someone interested in getting involved in the wonderful world of early Texas, contact Jerry Tubbs (telephone 713-973-1136) or Charlie Yates (telephone 512-264-2355). A $10 camp fee will be charged for wood & port-a-jons. For more details (and a map) click here. This event is rated 1. If you missed out and want to see the notes, they're here.

Santa Anna and the Mexican Army Arrive in Béxar, February 23, 1836 - The Alamo is Surrounded by Mexican Forces

February 28, 2004 - Glory at the Alamo at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free. Living history reënactments portray the beginning of the 13-day Alamo siege including a scene from a Fandango; the earlier-than-expected arrival of Santa Anna's Army of Operations Against Texas; early attempts to parley, an Alamo cannon shot in reply; and the reading of the famous Travis letter from the Alamo asking for aid. "Glory At The Alamo" programs also feature living history interactive demonstrations, period music, dance, food and novelty booths, historical crafts, old-time photographs, a sutler store and family fun for all. Also hosted is "This Hallowed Ground - Alamo Plaza", a historical walking tour of Alamo Plaza that is presented in collaboration with the William Barret Travis Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site .  This event is rated 3½ .

February 28-29, 2004 - Texas Independence Day Festivities at Washington-On-The-Brazos, Texas. This year the presentation is an "audience participatory play on the Convention of 1836 that will allow the audience to incorporate 'what if' scenarios into the story, depending on how they vote. It may happen that the convention lasts 'too long' and Mexican soldiers burst into the convention hall and arrest the delegates."  For an invitation to participate, contact Walt Bailey. Walt is looking for Mexican Soldado reenactors who would like to be in the play as well as Texian reenactors "of all types". Walt can be reached at 936-878-2214 ext. 227. Mail is Walt Bailey - Exhibit Tech, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, P.O. Box 305, Washington, TX 77880. Email is at Walter.Bailey@tpwd.state.tx.us .  This event is rated 3.

Texas Independence Day, March 2, 1836 Delegates in convention at Washington-On-The-Brazos sign the Texas Declaration of Independence

Texas Independence Day Celebrations:

March 2, 2004 - Texas Independence Day Memorial Service, Texas State Cemetery, Austin. 8:30 AM, from IH 35  go East on 7th street to Navasota. Turn left, cemetery main building will be up the block on your right at the flagpole. Memorial service and musket volley to honor the Great State of Texas, and the Men and Women who made her so. Keynote Speaker: Rep. Terry Keel.  This event is rated 3.

March 2, 2004 - Texas Independence Day Celebration and Parade in Austin, Texas.  Sponsored by our friends at Celebrate Texas . The parade this year has been cancelled due to unforeseen events. The celebrations and ceremonies at the State Capitol will still be held at noon.  This event is rated 3.

March 2, 2004 - Texas Independence Day Celebrations, statewide. Celebrate Texas encourages everyone to help with celebrations in their hometown. See their website.

The Alamo Falls to Santa Anna, March 6, 1836 - Travis, Crockett, Bowie and approximately 200 defenders are killed in heavy, early morning fighting.

March 6, 2004 - Dawn at the Alamo Memorial 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio,Texas. SALHA members, joined by re-enactors from across the U.S., represent both armies and pay homage in recognition of the great sacrifices made on both sides of the Alamo conflict. Thirteen candles are lit to symbolize the 13-day Alamo siege. The fall of the Alamo is remembered with a historical narrative, readings of eyewitness accounts, a reconciliation peace prayer, in both English and Spanish, flintlock musket volley salutes, and the placement of commemorative wreathes complete the solemn event. This free hour-long event begins during the Alamo battle hour that begins in darkness and ends in early morning light. Participation with wreaths is welcomed from Alamo descendants, historical organizations, students and other visitors. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site .  This event is  rated 3½ .

March 6-7, 2004 - "Remembering the Alamo" Weekend at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, from 11 AM – 5 PM Saturday, and 12 – 4 PM Sunday. Admission is free. Features educational programs, demonstrations and re-enactments interpreting the men, women, and children of both sides of the Alamo battle. From historical music and dance, food preparation, corn grinding, spinning and weaving to demonstrations of the types of arms and tactics used by both sides with military accoutrements and 1836 period fashions. "Santa Anna's Council of War" and "For God and Texas! ¡Dios y Libertad!" are the main re-enactments that convey the story of the Alamo conflict. A Sutler store, Alamo certificates signed by students with quill pens, cornhusk doll making, and a kids marching drill are also featured. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site .   This event is  rated 3.

Battle of Coleto, March 19, 1836 - Fannin and 384 men under his command surrender to General Urrea

Fannin Massacre, March 27, 1836 - Fannin and his command are massacred at Goliad

March 27-28, 2004 - "The Goliad Massacre" at Presidio La Bahía, Goliad, Texas. This event is sponsored by the Presidio La Bahía and the Crossroads of Texas Living History Association. Click here for Attendance Information including a complete list and timetable of events. Click here for Reënactor/Living Historian Information . Check out the Photos from the event. CONTACTS: Steve Trowbridge , 307 Taos, Victoria, TX 77904 or Dave Vickers , P. O. Box 942, Sinton, TX 78387 This event is rated 3½.

April 3-4, 2004 -  Runaway Scrape and Engagement at Thompson's Ferry, at the George Ranch , just south of Richmond, Texas . The George Ranch Historical Park will be hosting its fifth annual Runaway Scrape and Engagement at Thompson's Ferry on April 3 and 4, 2004. We have had a good turn out of re-enactors the past few events but this year we hope for more. We need re-enactors to portray fleeing colonists, defending Texian infantry, cavalry, and artillery, as well as Mexican infantry, cavalry, and artillery. There will be a cotton bale defense line for the Texians that will be defending Thompson's Ferry. There will be firewood, hay, and water for camps. Horses must have current Coggins. Bounty for artillery, and possibly mileage pay. All reenactors must return registration forms by April 1st by mail or by fax. To receive a registration form please call the Ranch at 281-343-0218 ext. 278 (Bryan McAuley).  This event is  rated 3½ .

 April 3, 2004 - History Faire and Culture Fest sponsored by Tejeda Middle School, San Antonio, Texas. 10am - 3pm. Free admission, and the event will go rain or shine. This event covers from Vikings to Viet Nam, and is a community, family style event that draws quite a crowd. This is a great event to introduce people to "living history". The timeline history reenactment groups and demonstrations will be on History Hill, behind the school. Groups and periods include the Buffalo Soldiers, SCA, Muskets of the Crown, WWII, Viet Nam, Texas Rev and many more. A stage will be set up for dance and cultural performance groups.  Musical groups include Scots, Mexican, and various ethnic groups. ( MS students learn Social Studies as opposed to History ). Student groups will sell handmade items, food and drinks, and run some games. Picnics are welcomed. If anyone knows of any one or group who would be interested in participating please put them get in touch with one of these fine ladies: Debora Marzec or Heidi Dye for registration. Directions available on the school site. More info here . This event is  rated 3½ .

April 3, 2004 - Easter Fete at the French Legation, 802 San Marcos St. in Austin. 10am-3pm. Egg hunt and games for the kids, live music, free tours, and a picnic area (bring a lunch and a blanket). We will be in a period camp,I have not yet heard if shooting a few rounds will be disallowed... you may want to bring a few cartridges. This event helps us return the favor of the DRT's support. On-site contact is Amy Crockett. Admission for the general public (non-participants) is $6 for adults, $4 for kids, $15 per family. Click here for flyer. This event is  rated 3.

Battle of San Jacinto, April 21, 1836 - Santa Anna's Army Defeated by General Sam Houston and Texian Forces

If you would like to have your pre-1840 Texas History event listed here, send me all the pertinent information and I'll post it. Be sure to include a TLA Rating and an event contact for further information.

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