We are not allowed to take photographs inside the Shrine, or chapel, the building that is most recognized as the Alamo. There are many photos, plaques and replicas giving historical information about the beginnings of the Mission in 1724 as a Catholic home to missionaries and Indian converts, and its conversion in 1800 to a Spanish military unit. The Texas Revolution took place in 1835-36 and that is the popular historical aspect of the Alamo that every Texas fifth-grader reads about.
More information about the battles, the participants and the outcome can be found here: http://www.thealamo.org/.
After the Alamo it was time to head for the car and home. I was amazed at how close we were to the car and La Villita, which we had left hours before. My feet told me it was miles away, but really was only a few city blocks. We encountered some interesting sights along Alamo Plaza, including a very strange red sculpture. I have no idea what its significance might be!
We saw the trolleys making their circles, and were amused by a Star Shuttle commercial being shot in front of the convention Center. I love the way our city displays pots of bougainvillea on the stairways and lamp posts. We got one last shot of the colorful umbrellas at Casa Rio, caught up with Graham, spied the Tower of the Americas, made one last pass by La Villita, and fell into the car and the air conditioning!
It was a very good day. Kate made a valuable contact in the art gallery. Graham bought some raffle tickets at the Starving Artist Shop. I found a super dandy sparkling flashlight for Adrian at the Alamo gift shop. And we captured tons of digital memories that will last a lifetime. Can't wait to see what's in store at the Institute of Texan Cultures! Enjoy the photos.
Post Script: I just read on the internet that the sculpture is called Torch of Friendship and is a gift from Mexico to commemorate our long-standing friendship with the citizens of Mexico. So now you know!
No comments:
Post a Comment