Gary Cartwright
You Aren’t Here
A lack of reverence for the Alamo’s sacred battleground has turned much of the iconic site into a place no one remembers.
77 comments
Monday, November 17th, 2008, 3:48 pm
CRF says:
Alamo Plaza MUST be restored in some fashion, or soon there won't be anything left to save.
Having spent a great deal of time in Alamo Plaza over the last ten years, I have witnessed a fast-paced decline in respect for one of America's most significant historic sites.
One afternoon while sitting underneath the trees in Alamo Plaza, a group of college students excitedly gathered for photos in front of the church and long barrack. Laughing, two of the males took a pose simulating they were peeing on the wall. Utterly disgusted I yelled at them, "That's great...is this how you want to remember the Alamo?" This of course fell on deaf ears. I have also witnessed people putting their drink cups and soda cans in the niches before going into the church, as well as all the physical garbage that is constantly piling up on the grass and sidewalks. The Alamo guards do their best to curb this kind of behavior, but the point is...THEY SHOULDN'T HAVE TO! As they say, "Likes attract" and the carnival on the west side of the plaza has created the wrong kind of atmosphere on the site of sacred ground. The city can continue to ignore what is really going on in the plaza, and be assured it will only get worse. The moral and physical garbage is knocking on the front door. It won't be much longer before it completely takes over. Wake up San Antonio, before it's too late!
Sunday, November 16th, 2008, 4:51 pm
Jim from LA says:
I have visited the Alamo once as a youth and its symbolism still inspires me. San Antonio has the ability to restore, at least partly, the plaza that is the birthplace of Texas. Please do so. Thank you
Friday, November 14th, 2008, 11:11 am
CBS says:
Nostalgic teacher’s perspective...
Nearly every spring, I retraced the footsteps of Civil War soldiers into reconstructed forts, behind costumed belles and gents, and through open houses. I was hopelessly infected with the accurate History each school field trip to Star Fort Historical site provided. (http://www.nps.gov/history/seac/96arch-bg.htm#whatsee)
“Seeing†History left my person stained by the richness, detail and pride of carefully preserved sites. It was one of the main reasons I majored in History, then became a teacher.
As a Texas educator, I am annoyed that Texas children are not gleaning the fullness of what the Alamo site has to offer. I pray for our students, not only to have a reverence for History, but also more Alamo battlefield footsteps to retrace.
Let's give our future Texas historians more to savor!
Thursday, November 13th, 2008, 10:43 pm
Amy Jo Baker says:
To the People of Texas and All Americans in the World-'Remember the Alamo!'" is a clarion call that has inspired generations of Texans and Americans from 1836 to the men on Bataan and Corregidor to the present. Why have we allowed commercialism to desecrate hallowed ground? We need to capitalize on our history and bring it home for future generations. The Alamo Plaza transformation would be a compliment to the Alamo Chapel and Long Barracks and bring even more people to San Antonio to reflect on our heritage. Let's make this a priority and a gift to the citizens of Texas and the world for the 175th Anniversary of Texas Independence in 2011 in 3 years! City Council, business leaders, the public let's join together to make this happen and preserve our heritage!
Thursday, November 13th, 2008, 11:35 am
MUSTANG says:
I cheer and support all of the comments posted by other caring individuals. As an American, I have the unique pleasure of being able to visit one of our nations most sacred shrines on a regular basis. Every time I visit, it brings a lump to my throat and a tear to the eye when I think of the ultimate sacrifice given by these defenders of liberty. And then I look at the remainder of the Plaza and am put to shame when I realize that that it appears that the commericalism of the Plaza appears to be more important than remembering what these individuals fought and died for. To have visitors from other countries come up to you and say "Is that all there is? I didn't realize it was so small. Why is the Alamo in the middle of downtown? " bothers me to no end. It's a shame and an embarassment that we have allowed Ripley's etc. to overshadow the importance of this sacred land. We now have an opportunity to correct this. Don't let this chance pass us by.
Thursday, November 13th, 2008, 10:02 am
Mark Lemon says:
THE FOLLOWING IS BEING POSTED ON REQUEST OF PHIL COLLINS:
I first visited the Alamo in 1974. I'd won my wish to divert the Genesis
guys into a day off in San Antonio so I could visit the place I'd wanted to
see since I was a boy of 7.
I remember turning right at the corner onto the Plaza, something you can't
do now. I remember catching my first sight of the iconic shape of the
Church.
I was in heaven.
At the time I remember nothing much about the row of buildings on the site
of the West Wall.
There was a small cinema that I went to that showed a brief story of what
had happened there in 1836.
This was situated on the site where the Hyatt walkway starts as it had to be
torn down to make that walkway possible.
Years later I bought some relics that were discovered underneath that
cinema.
It was built near or on the site of the Artillery Command Post, so there
were a few cannon balls and other asstd items.
One thing I could swear to was that there was little signs of "COMMERCE" in
that row of shops outside those you'd expect in a City centre.
At the time, even though this was a "life and death" trip for me, I was
probably like most tourists.
I'd come to see the Alamo and there it was......the Church.
The next time I was able to visit San Antonio was in 2004.
I made an important detour during my final solo tour and chartered a plane
so I could show my young son what all the fuss was about.
By this time I was a collector and full time "Alamo buff".
It hit me like a ton of bricks that there really was so little left of the
compound.
I was also surprised, dismayed and shocked that the row of normal shops from
1974 had somehow transformed into a row of tacky, second rate eye sores.
The DRT over the years has done as much as they can to retain the dignity of
the Alamo, so they should be applauded for that. However, progress is
starting to strangle an area that has to be maintained as a crucial part of
Texas History.
It has always amazed me that there is so little left to see of this
important place.
Who decided that having "Ripley's Believe it or not" and "Tomb-Raider 3D"
on the historic site of the West Wall was a good idea ?
Who was it that decided all those years ago to build the Post Office and
Emily Morgan Hotel on the site of the North Wall without leaving a decent
and respectful marker ?
This place was where Travis fell for God's sake.
This was where the Mexican Army stormed in and signalled the beginning of
the end for the defenders.
I had to be shown the place where Santa Anna had his HQ so he could watch
the breach of that wall.
It's a car park now. No signs to tell you unless you know.
At some point in recent times, decisions have been made that does San
Antonio a great injustice.
San Antonio is a great place with a wonderful community, but its main reason
for tourism surely is the Alamo story.
There was a movie called "NETWORK" with Peter Finch a number of years ago.
He played a news reader and he was so tired of reading about things that
pissed him off, he encouraged people to open their windows and shout "I'M
MAD AS HELL AND I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANYMORE !!!!"
If you agree that as much as possible, the Alamo site should be restored or
made more reverent, make your voice heard.
It won't happen otherwise.
There is a plan afoot to replicate some of the compound so
people/tourists/visitors can get a feel of the way it was back then.
Though it won't be THE West Wall....though it won't be THE Low
Barracks....it WILL make the Alamo story that the defenders, the brave
Mexican soldiers, and the forgotten Tejano hero's fought for, come to life.
Phil Collins
Wednesday, November 12th, 2008, 6:39 pm
Pat says:
It is time the city of San Antonio cleaned up the "trash" on Alamo Plaza and restore the Plaza with authenticity and integrity!
Thank you, Gary Cartwright, for bringing this issue to our attention!
Concerned TEXAN!
Tuesday, November 11th, 2008, 8:49 am
Nita says:
Gary Cartwright not only wrote a great article, but a necessary one. Millions of visitors come every year to see the Alamo. So much more could be done to inform vistors of what this historical location was, where it was, and what happened there. It is time for the City of San Antonio to clean up Alamo Plaza and give the Mission Compound and its visitors the respect they deserve.
Monday, November 10th, 2008, 1:35 pm
Alex U.K. says:
Having visited the Alamo several times over the years It has always amazed me that the Shrine of Texas Liberty is tucked away amongst high rise buildings, shopping malls and souvenier shops it's about time it was rescued and the Alamo Plaza restored to it's former glory.
Monday, November 10th, 2008, 8:04 am
Jim R Simmons says:
When I got to visit the Alamo it was a childhood dream of mine...I to vote to reclaim History before it is Lost forever..Remember The Alamo!
Thanks...
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 3:47 pm
swishy says:
I would much rather visit the Alamo than all the tourist spots that have taken its place. It's time to make it right!
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 3:37 pm
doug davenport says:
as a reenacter that has done the battle of the alamo several times i can't tell you the feeling i get when i stand behind the pallasade where crockett fought and died. just think what it would be like having the whole compound there
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 11:47 am
PAUL D says:
Come on San Antonio let's restore a little dignity to this hallowed ground. There are other places around that could accomadate the "side shows" Keep this area as it should be, a place to remember and reflect on our past history. We don't need the circus atmosphere! I'd hate to ask fellow Texan Fess Parker what he thought of it all! I think you'd get an ear full! We have to protect the memories of what those men died there for. We can't let them down now! We need their memory! "Go Ahead!!!"
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 9:23 am
John wayne says:
We have visited Texas twice to see the Alamo. That is where we spent our money. We did not visit any places like Ripley's etc. We can do that here at home.
jw
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 7:59 am
Rich Federici says:
I have been to the Alamo in 1994. It is a stunning and inspiring place as is. Yet, the gnawing desire to see the WHOLE thing led me to travel west to view a darn MOVIE LOCATION.
Sad.
As a symbol of our grit, determination, and willingness to fight on against all odds, the Alamo is an American treasure and should be restored and preserved for all time.
Remember the Alamo!
Sunday, November 9th, 2008, 2:55 am
g exponent says:
everything has been said that i was gonna, much better wording tho. this is my 4th attempt to post a comment. i wonder how many more comments didn't make it thru. maybe you should consider keeping the topic open for another month and let those who had an opinion speak there,s. it is a good article and speaks the truth as everyone knows. thanks
Saturday, November 8th, 2008, 2:59 pm
Alamo John UK says:
The Alamo plaza fiasco must be addressed and soon !
When I visited in March 2007 it was the culmination of a lifelong dream to visit the Alamo and pay homage to the brave men on both sides who died there on that fateful morning in 1836 fighting for causes that they believed to be right, while I was thrilled to be able to do this I was equally dismayed at the lack of respect and reverence given to the surrounding areas in Alamo plaza.
Soft drinks vendors, tacky souvenir shops and freak shows now occupy the very ground upon which heroics were performed and history was written, indeed the very spot once occupied by Travis’s HQ now being guarded by Ripley’s ghoul is a singular disgrace with not even a plaque telling visitors of this sites great historical importance.
I realise this point has already been made, but ask yourself again, would you find a Ripley’s being built on the plains of The Little Big Horn ? No, would you expect to see a “General Lee adventure ride†next to the courthouse at Appomattox ? Of course not, so why is the area around The Alamo allowed to be desecrated by these monstrosities ? This is sacred ground we are talking about here, ground that was paid for at a terrible cost in men’s lives. People like myself travel great distances from all over the world to visit The Alamo and pay their respects to these men, not to be bombarded by these parasitical sideshows cashing in on the areas history.
The difference between the Alamo and other battle sites like LBH, Gettysburg, Shiloh and countless others is that they have been protected and preserved to appear pretty much as they were on the day that events thrust them into the history books, remaining as poignant memorials to the brave men whose blood they still hold, is the Alamo not worthy of the same respect ? Apparently not.
Taking into account that unlike some of the aforementioned sites the Alamo stands in the middle of a thriving bustling city, would it still be too much to ask that the powers that be in San Antonio put aside some small amount of ground (a couple of blocks at the most ?) in recognition of the singular most important and momentous occurrence in that city’s history ? They could start by simply closing of a couple of roads to non essential traffic and “cleansing†the site of the west wall of the “tack†that currently occupies some of the buildings there.
San Antonio is a beautiful city with much to offer, it can also be a proud city by taking appropriate action that will enhance it’s worldwide appeal while at the same time honouring it’s heritage in a proper and dignified manner.
My final plea to the good people of San Antonio is “Remember your history, remember your culture but most of all remember your Alamo!â€
Saturday, November 8th, 2008, 3:03 am
snake-eyes says:
My thoughts are that Texas is the only one
single State that fought off invasion by a
foreign land. I have always admired them for it!
The Alamo should be revered and preserved as much
as any historic site in the Country. I do have issue with calling it Alamo PLAZZA! Why not just the ALAMO??? Plaza gives the convocation of shopping center IMHO
snake-eyes
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 11:03 pm
frances evans says:
many great comments. lets get to work on this
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 8:51 pm
Rod Timanus says:
As a starting point, why not resurface the facades of the buildings that now occupy the site where the west wall of the Alamo once stood? Redone to more closely resemble what the west wall might have looked like will, at the least, give the visitor an idea of the large scope of the original compound. Nothing gets torn down, although I would strongly suggest a city ordinance prohibiting sidewalk hawking of attractions, and future restorations or rebuilding in other areas can be undertaken over time after careful consideration.
Thank you for a fine article on an important issue.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 7:55 pm
Bob Durham says:
I enjoyed the article and hope Gary Foreman's ideas, which would make Alamo Plaza a world-class historical attraction come to fruition. I live in Dayton, Ohio and visit San Antonio every couple of years. One thing that always strikes me when visiting the Alamo is the number of tourists who express disappointment when seeing the Alamo for the first time. Its hard to visualize what the Alamo mission once looked like. Closing off the street that runs in front of the Alamo to automobile traffic and moving the sideshow attractions to another part of the city would be a great first step. Ultimately, reconstructing part of the west and south walls of the historical mission to represent what it looked like during the siege and battle would be a major improvement and would go a long way toward making visits to the Alamo a first class experience.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 7:05 pm
James Wright says:
Great article. As a Native Texan of many generations, I say, bring respect and reverance back to the Alamo and the surrounding Plaza.
James Wright
Whitney, Texas
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 6:43 pm
gr says:
I enjoyed reading the article very much. It is time, after all these years, to finally honor everyone who sacrificed their lives for liberty at the Alamo. It is time to restore Alamo Plaza to educate visitors and to show visitors that San Antonio is truly a historic city and that its history is important to San Antonians.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 6:17 pm
Martin Vasquez says:
Everyday I hear at least one comment from a tourist that is dissapointed after visiting the Alamo. Working at a business near Alamo Plaza(not located in the original Alamo compound) many comments are heard and the majority are negative when talking about the experience of visiting the Alamo. People are amazed when you explain to them that the compound was actually quite massive. There is also a sense of shock when you tell them that the city did not save much of the compound.
The city should be embarrassed by the circus side show that today sits on the west wall of the Alamo fortress. I am sad to say that we dishonor the memory of these men who fought and died at these walls that now only bleed green, money that is!
Martin
San Antonio De Bejar
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 5:53 pm
Wade Dillon says:
San Antonio praises its historical origins, but they are not recognizing the one icon that has made the city what it is today, and that is The Alamo. The other missions are within comfortable proximities to be seen and respected. For one to find reflection on the Alamo grounds, one must visit The Alamo late at night to take in its haunting beauty and message. The carnival act directly in front of The Alamo is repulsive and sacrilegious. Something needs to be done now or Alamo Plaza will remain the same as it is today. A tourist trap of a shrine. REMEMBER. RECLAIM. RESTORE! ~Wade Dillon of Florida
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 5:18 pm
Misty P. says:
REMEMBER THE ALAMO...don't let history be lost!
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 4:34 pm
El Colorado says:
It’s gratifying to see so many individual “voices†passionately expressing their opinions on something so dear to all of us – the Alamo. In my eyes, you are all “Texas Patriots†for recognizing the seriousness of the situation, and for standing up and articulating your message. I think Travis and his “boys†would be proud.
My thanks to all of you, to Gary Cartwright, and to Texas Monthly for shinning their light on this most important issue. Let’s hope that Texas Monthly will do a follow-up article on this excellent story.
I hope to meet many of you in San Antonio this coming March during the “High Holy Days†gathering.
Until then...REMEMBER – RECLAIM – RESTORE - THE ALAMO
El Colorado
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 2:18 pm
Bob Hess says:
Those of us who know Gary Foreman and and admire how long and hard he has worked to try to bring Alamo Plaza back to respectability, realize that this is long overdue. In a country that is proud of it's history, and proud of those who have fought for it, it seems unbelieveable that a battle as famous and as important as The Alamo has had it's hallowed ground turned into a carnival. I come to San Antonio each year for "High Holy Days" and I can only imagine how awesome it would be to one day celebrate the "Cradle of Texas Liberty" in a restored Alamo Plaza that would actually educate visitors. I too have heard people say "It looks so small compared to what you see in the movies". I only wish we didn't have to explain to people what the Alamo actually looked like in 1836.
Gary is a visionary who sees what the Plaza should look like. We all need to stand behind him and work (Our time and/or money) to see that Alamo Plaza is turned into a world class historical site.
My father was at Pearl Harbor on Dec 7, 1941, and I have been to Pearl Harbor a few times. Can you imagine haunted house built next to the Arizona Memorial? I think not.
Men of all races, creeds and religions died here that morning so long ago, on both sides. Let's make sure that they have a fitting memorial to their bravery.
Bob Hess
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 11:49 am
Jeffrey Dane says:
What's most obvious, by its nature, can easily escape our attention. As Alamo Plaza is now, visitors (except for the historians and scholars) have no notion that the original Alamo compound was, simply put, the size of two football fields. The proposed Plaza modifications would provide for all visitors a more immediate awareness -- and a much better understanding -- of the full extent of the compound as it was at the time of the battle in 1836. Much has been made of the nature and very existence of the retail establishments across the Plaza directly facing the Alamo Church. The defenders standing before its doors, or atop the original west wall of the complex, would have seen Texas countryside and the Mexican army. Today we see Texas clothing stores and Mexican restaurants. It's a given that countless people wish this were otherwise. I freely acknowledge that I am one of them. Brave men, on both sides, fought and died at that place, and the menagerie of "business establishments" now situated on the west side of the Plaza is a veritable desecration of their memory. The Alamo Church might seem familiar to those defenders today -- but certainly not the view from it. "An effort should be made to restore as much of the original compound as is feasible, install better signage in order to give visitors a clearer idea of what they are seeing, and improved interpretation" ( -- from a website about this matter). The individual who wrote these words seems to have encapsulated the situation in the proverbial nutshell -- and as an independent historian, researcher and author, I heartily agree with the sentiment. In this regard, I can speak only for myself, not for others: the elimination of the Barnum & Bailey travesties facing the Church, the renovation of Alamo Plaza, and hopefully a restoration of the Long Barracks to its original two-storey appearance would be an enormous inducement for the relocation to San Antonio of: yours truly -- Jeffrey Dane, New York, e-mail: JeffDane43@aol.com
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 11:05 am
John Berky says:
Although I live in Connecticut, I have been drawn to the Alamo at least six times in my adult life. I have always found the mission to be an inspiring place and at the same time, I have reflected on how this one little spot on this earth has been preserved to to allow people to reflect on what happened here over 170 years ago. It is remarkable that the Alamo has been left to us as the great City of San Antonio has grown up around it. We owe a debt of gratitude to those before us who have passed this historic landmark on to us. But now, we are entrusted with its continued preservation. It is for us to save this historic place and ensure that our children and the generations that follow come to visit and to learn the significance of what happened here. A few pages in a history book will not suffice. The landmark which is the Alamo is of incalculable significance to the State of Texas. As Alamo Plaza becomes a mecca for cheap and tawdry commercialism, it sends a telling message to our children and all visitors about how we value the heritage and history of this great state. It is time to set proper priorities and to recognize the symbolic importance of The Alamo to the people of this great land.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 11:03 am
John Bourdage says:
I appauld the article for waking people up and applaud Gary Foreman for what he is trying to accomplish.
As a former reenactor at the Alamo and resident of San Antonio, I find what has happened to the Plaza disgusting and disgraceful!
I is incredibly disrespectful not only to those who died within the walls of the Alamo, but also to those who perished outside the walls.
These Veterans gave their all fighting for what they believed in and it is our duty to remember that with respect and reverence.
Those tourist traps have no respect for these brave souls. They should be ashamed of themselves and so should those who let them get away with it.
Such greed as theirs is what put this country in financial straits as it is now.
Well, the time has come to cross that line and take back what belongs to the good people of Texas and all Americans in the World!
It is time to restore the Alamo and the Plaza to it respectful glory giving those who fought there the due they so nobley earned!!!!!
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 10:20 am
Sad to be a San Antonian says:
As a child, I visited the Alamo with my family. I remember sticking my finger in one of the bullet holes in the wall and listening to the guide tell us about the battle that occurred and why it did. I now live in this beautiful city and rarely have time to go down to Alamo Plaza. I recently took my family there. It was nothing like I remembered. It makes me sad to be called a San Antonian.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 10:07 am
Millie says:
Great article pointing out the need for San Antonio to focus on the importance of the Alamo and accurately portraying its Mission Compound. As one who has an appreciation for its history and who serves as a guide for visitors, I think it is time to demand the city clean up the Plaza and restore it properly.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 8:38 am
Marshal says:
After reading this article and all of the passionate comments posted here, the only remaining question is why San Antonio hasn't already moved to clean up Alamo Plaza. It can't be any more complicated than it was to permit the tasteless attractions to open for business along Alamo Street. How difficult can it be to close that street to traffic, especially considering the Alamo's own plans for a new media center call for the closing of part of Houston Street?
Mr. Winders may be the official historian of the Alamo, but he needs a refresher course if he is honestly comparing the historical importance of the Alamo with the buildings that house the freak show attractions. I would ask Mr. Winders if he thinks anyone comes to San Antonio to appreciate the historic significance of those buildings, or if they come to see the Alamo.
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 7:40 am
alamo54us says:
REMEMBER...RECLAIM...RESTORE!!
Friday, November 7th, 2008, 7:38 am
Jim B says:
The current state of Alamo Plaza is a travesty. I applaud Gary Foreman's efforts to restore this hallowed ground and join with many others in working to achieve this goal. The men who fell at this location merit respect, and the freak show now on display along Alamo street is undignified. Let's honor the sacrifice of these Texas heroes. Remember...Recalim...Restore.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 10:08 pm
Ned Huthmacher says:
It still amazes me how little the powers-that-be in San Antonio seem to care. While they applaud with their tongues any efforts to make Alamo Plaza a place that All Texans, Americans and yes even overseas visitors can be proud of, their non-actions speak louder than their wagging political tongues ever could. So, just who let Alamo Plaza get into such a lowly state in the first place? Couldn't those powers-that-be have come out and flatly said to Ripleys and all the other carnival barkers on the west side of Alamo Street, "not here, you don't; not on my Alamo Plaza!"
While Ripley's and the other carnival barkers would not even dare to suggest that one of their ventures be built on the Gettysburg battlefield, or Bunker Hill, what made Alamo Plaza such an easy mark. Why did the Alamo have to fall again---into shame?
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 9:26 pm
Seguin says:
I applaud Gary Foreman´s plans!
A good beginning would be to close off Alamo Plaza for traffic, and to put up some markers on the Plaza informing the Tourists about what took place there in 1836. The average tourist does´nt even know that the Plaza is the former Alamo compound.
Also, the "amusement businesses" should be relocated. It is not befitting to have them located where brave men from many nations sacrificed their lives for Liberty and Texas.
As somebody said recently - It´s Time For Change!
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 6:48 pm
Richard L. Curilla says:
I talk to tourists daily as docent and historian at Alamo Village, Brackettville, Texas. These are the sets built by John Wayne fifty years ago for his epic film "The Alamo." Many tourists I visit with have just come from the real Alamo, and are quick to point out that seeing John Wayne's Hollywood replica has given them a far more "real feel" than going to "the small one" in San Antonio.
The Daughters of the Republic of Texas have done a fine job of defending and preserving all that remains of the historic Alamo. Through folks like Dr. Richard Bruce Winders (Alamo Historian and Curator), they have even met the call for better historical interpretation. It is time now for the City of San Antonio to do their part in defending the site which has provided most of their turist lure. The Alamo is what makes San Antonio unique in the world. I hope they remember.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 5:43 pm
Bill Utterback says:
Yes, close Alamo Street. Yes, rebuild the walls. Cheers to Gary Foreman who wants to put the Alamo back the way it was and the way it should be.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 5:24 pm
April says:
Gary Foreman is a Hero! The Alamo is without equal as a monument to Texans who died for Liberty. Reconstructing the original Alamo is a project we are obligated to undertake.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 5:20 pm
Dav y says:
There comes a time when folks must stand for what is right. The Texian defenders of the Alamo took their stand in 1836. Now is the time that we NEW defenders stand up and be counted as well. Lets just do it, as time is indeed of the essence. We MUST do something to preserve the place where our forefathers once fought and died. It is time to redress and correct an issue that has been allowed to fester for many a year! A call to all Texians near & far!
Davy
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 4:54 pm
Bill G. says:
As a re-enactor I enjoy dressing and acting much like the people of the time for the tourists and others who come to visit The Alamo. I am reminded of Goliad where the fort is pretty much the same as it was at the time of the Texas revolution. It would be great for that kind of background to be here in San Antonio and many improvements could be made with the space at hand. The Post Office is an old building, but really not anywhere as important as the Alamo for history. I think that the properties surrounding the plaza need to be upgraded so that they contribute to the atmosphere of the Alamo and tell much more of the whole story of the site. However, I do want to insist that these private properties be bought by freely consenting parties and absolutely no eminent domain be used in their acquisition. Make the property owners an offer they won't refuse and let's get on with the greater purpose of telling the public the full story of the Alamo and its myriad of defenders and besiegers.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 10:21 am
Dorothy L. says:
Sorry - above should read "this is our blood - our bones - our spirit". Goes to show, when you're feeling something strongly you should always prove read.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 10:10 am
Dorothy L. says:
Possibly we're the last generation to be able to save the Alamo. If we don't step up to the responsibility, there may not be another chance.
Unless the awesome courage of the defenders is felt in our hearts, we will lose substance to glitz. It breaks my heart to go into the Alamo and hear all the noise. There are no emptly spaces to feel the heroic place it is. I'm so thankful for those who've worked to save it up to this point. Now, Texans, it's time for us to step up to the history - and say "these is our blood - our bones - our spirit". And we will preserve and honor the Alamo.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 10:08 am
HET says:
ITS, the city of San Antonio has a monument to Tejano defender, Torribo Loysoya, who was born in one of the houses along the West Wall of the Alamo, right next to Ripley's Odditorium, and died March 6th defending the Alamo. Wouldn't that monument be much more appropriate in Alamo Plaza where he was born and died, and where visitors would actually see it and be able learn about the Tejano contribution? Instead it is virtually hidden from the average visitor, and his story and the Tejano contribution remains largely untold.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 9:42 am
lgoff says:
I am definitely in favor of cleaning up the area surrounding the Alamo. The Alamo is a sacred shrine that should command the respect of the City of San Antonio. Cleaning up the area surrounding that shrine would, and should, be a first step in restoring the reverence due this historic structure.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 7:58 am
J. Duelm says:
As a history teacher in San Antonio, the protection of historical landmarks such as the Alamo is particularly engaging. Your article does much to highlight the moral imperative that we as city and state face to preserve our heritage. If enough people rise up and demand that their collective history be treated with the respect and authenticity it deserves, then the Alamo can be restored to its former dignity. Encourage everyone you know to write their San Antonio city council member and their State officials to help make this dream a reality... else, how will we remember the Alamo?
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 7:26 am
ITS says:
I teach U.S. History and World Cultures and Geography to 6th and 8th grade inner-city middle school students with a 95% hispanic student body. The question commonly asked in class is, "Where are the latinos?". Since US History was written from the English revolutionary perspective and studies of the Tejano influence are just now surfacing, I believe a large part of the Americans with roots tracing back to the Mestizos would find more of connection if they realized that Hispanics did influence American History.
There would be, I stronly believe, more of a push in San Antonio to maintain a historically accurate picture of the Alamo if the "Tejano's" blood that was also left on the ground in our fight for independence was mentioned in all the History books.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 6:21 am
TRK says:
Brock, just Google "Gary Foreman" and "Alamo Plaza" (using quotation marks), and then visit the first few links.
Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 6:11 am
Frederick Nolan says:
Even as far away as England, the words 'the Alamo' resonate. For those of us here who care about the history of the West--and they are many--the tacky add-ons that have been permitted at and around the old mission are an insult to history and to the brave men who died there. We also know enough about Texas politicians to despair that anyone will ever be able to persuade them to spend the kind of money that is needed to solve the problem -- Hell, it's just an old church, ain't it? Many of us Brits are appalled when we visit historical sites to find how often they have been shamelessly commercialized -- and that's when they haven't simply been turned into parking lots. The Alamo is one of the brightest of America's bright shining lights. You have just entered a new age under a new President. Take the Alamo into that new age with you -- give us back the place those heroes fought and died for.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 9:55 pm
Jennifer says:
What a shame that the Alamo has reached an all-time low. Gaudy attractions such as Ripley's and the mirror maze would be more at home at Disney World rather than next to a symbol of Texas tenacity. The pride Texans, and Americans as a whole, have in what the Alamo represents deserves more respect and reverence then the city displays at the Plaza. The fallen defenders of those walls would turn in their graves if they knew that the ground where they stood tall, the same ground that soaked up their blood, would be so carelessly thrown aside for the sake of commercialism. This property should be preserved and protected as an eternal shrine to those who fought to the end to defend her.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 9:54 pm
Mark Lemon says:
Change comes hard, and it is so much easier to sit and do nothing, than to be dynamic and make things happen. But this is exactly what San Antonio must do. The Alamo is pitifully presented today, to the point of being an embarrassment. Docents and guides constantly have to explain to tourists that it "wasn't just the church.." The Alamo, which should be the Crowned Jewel of Texas, huddles forlornly amidst noisy modern squalor and tacky tourist traps. Why the city does not take drastic, and immediate action to rectify this mess, is beyond me. Most politicians are content to just go along, and real movers are few and far between. I pray that from San Antonio will emerge political leaders the real vision necessary to restore the plaza to a beautiful place of reflection, cultural pride, and historical relevancy. Gary Foreman has the right idea, and the city should take and follow his lead.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 7:35 pm
W. Chemerka says:
Alamo Plaza, the place where Texian, Tejano and Mexican soldiers fought and died during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, has deteriorated into a site of crass commercialism that is embarrassing, to say the least. Unfortunately, the status of Alamo Plaza is the byproduct of ignoranace and apathy.
But something can be done to restore the dignity of a place that has inspired so many over the years. Alamo Plaza must be closed to vehicular traffic...now! The overgrown trees around the Cenotaph need to be pruned or removed...now! A first-class museum or historical center is needed...now! And a task force needs to be organized that will initiate a major reconfiguration of Alamo Plaza.
The buldings that parallel what was once the Alamo's West Wall need to be replaced with something congruent to the architectural look of 1830s. Build it and they will come.
Those who herald the significance of insignificant extant structures, should take lessons from other historical efforts around the country. For example, two decades ago the National Park Service demolished the Thompson House in Morristown, New Jersey, because it undermined the esthetic importance of the nearby Ford Mansion, i.e., the place where George Wahsington held the Continental Army together during the "Hard Winter" of 1779-1780. The Thompson House, built in 1892, was somehat significant in its own right since it was regarded as a "good example of late Queen Anne domestic architecture with some colonial-style influence." But it was destroyed because it was an inappropriate structure that diminished the view of the primary historical structure: the Ford Mansion.
It is time to restore Alamo Plaza. The 175th anniversary of the Battle of the Alamo is in 2011. One wonders if ignorance and apathy will continue their reign over dignity and heritage.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 6:51 pm
Brock says:
Where can I find more information on Gary Foreman's plan? Thanks!
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 6:48 pm
Brock says:
When I visited the Alamo on two separate occasions, I was always disgusted by the businesses across the street. It takes away from the atmosphere of Alamo Plaza. I believe The Alamo is suppose to be a place of reflection and remembrance. It is hardly that with Stumpy screaming at the pedestrians. I would like to listen more to what Gary Foreman has to say about his plan.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 6:45 pm
William Mark Day says:
Great article, calling attention to a serious problem. Thanks for getting it out there.
As the motto says, REMEMBER, RECLAIM, RESTORE, THE ALAMO.
William Mark Day, Alamo Defender Descendant of Andrew Kent, one of the IMMORTAL 32.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 2:00 pm
El Colorado says:
Greetings
I'm a retired Air Force Master Sergeant residing in Denver, Colorado. I was in beautiful San Antonio last March for a 5-day visit and would like to relate to you my personal experiences, impressions, and observations of Alamo Plaza.
My initial visit to San Antonio was 31 years ago, courtesy of the USAF. It was the first time I saw the Alamo and Alamo Plaza. My next visit occurred 11 years later, in 1988. I was in town to visit with family but I spent a majority of my time exploring the Alamo and the River Walk. So, after 20 years, I was excited to have the opportunity to visit the 'Alamo City' once more and get re-acquainted with one of my favorite places - the Alamo. I have long held a special place in my heart for that noble old mission. It has come to represent so many things I have come to value.
Upon my arrival in San Antonio, I quickly headed down Houston Street for Alamo Plaza. I was excited to view the Cenotaph, read the names of the Alamo's defenders and reflect on the heroic battle. As I rounded the corner on Alamo Street and approached the monument to the fallen heroes, I was distraught by what I saw. Children and teenagers crawling all over the Cenotaph like it was their own personal 'jungle-gym.' As I looked across the street, a line of carnival-like attractions were occupying ground where American Indians once lived and toiled and where brave men, both Anglo and Mexican, fought and died for what they believed was right. This scene left me speechless and numb. 'What the heck happened to Alamo Plaza...how could this happen? I was not only stunned and deeply disappointed - I was angry. This disrespectful display was wrong...absolutely wrong.
The ground where the west wall of the Alamo once stood has significant historical value. Along the western wall of the old plaza, several adobe structures existed. These 'houses' provided shelter for the early mission Indians who labored there. Military barracks for the Mexican soldados who were assigned to protect the frontier. And in 1836, protection for both the Texan defenders and non-combatants alike. Most importantly, the Alamo's headquarters was along the west wall. From this location, the young commander of the Alamo, William Barret Travis, wrote his famous letter of appeal. One of our nations most profound and inspiring documents of all time.
Today, visitors to the Alamo and Alamo Plaza who search the western boundary for structures of significant historical relevance and value, will be extremely disappointed. Instead of locating remnants of the past, they will be greeted by wax figures, ghosts, ghouls, goblins, and shrunken heads. Adding insult to injury, the visitors will find themselves verbally accosted by a carnival barker obnoxiously yelling and taunting as they pass by in search of real history. Is this the authenticity San Antonio seeks to promote? Is this the 'DEEP. in the HEART.' philosophy the city planners and managers want visitors to San Antonio to experience? As a visitor myself, what am I suppose to think? How should I react?
The circus-like atmosphere that has been allowed to permeate the core of Alamo Plaza is not only offensive and disturbing, but utterly disrespectful to the memory and gallantry of men of valor. The historic ground soiled by the Ripely establishments needs to be rescued and reclaimed. Many of us who make occasional sojourns or annual pilgrimages to San Antonio do so to see the Alamo. We are drawn to Alamo Plaza to meditate on deeds of courage and self-sacrifice. We reflect on the terrible battle, upon fallen heroes, and we seek to pay them the respect they so richly deserve. This is why the Alamo has over a million visitors each year...this is why I come. We do not travel to San Antonio to see a freak show, gaze at wax figures, or converse with repugnant carnival barkers. We want to experience real history. History that is meaningful...history that is authentic.
Adding to the distasteful side-show is Alamo Street. As I sought to contemplate the 13-day siege and the men on both sides who fought there, I was bombarded by an onslaught of traffic noise. Car horns, loud offensive music, screeching tires, noisey vehicle engines, and malodorous exhaust fumes, marred any chance for me to experience something even remotely authentic. If anything, I experienced frustration and annoyance.
Today, as I reflect upon the Alamo, I feel saddness. Since its construction in the early 1700's, the Alamo has been a mission, a sanctuary, a refuge, a fort, a storage depot, and a shrine. During its many years of existence it has been used, abused, neglected, disparaged, ignored, and disrespected. Even now, the proud old fortress continues to endure an explosion of exploitation. Not just from the slick profiteers and low-class peddlers of pop-culture but by the city of San Antonio as well. The 'Alamo City' seems to regard the 'Cradle of Texas Liberty' as nothing more than bait and hook to entice visitors. Throughout its turbulent history, the Alamo has unselfishly offered itself for the benefit of others. San Antonio has long benefited from it's affilliation with the Alamo. I feel it's time the city considers giving something back to this treasured symbol that has given so much.
It has come to my attention that a report commissioned by, and for, the city of San Antonio validates my observations as well as my concerns for Alamo Plaza. According to the consultants: 'Continued vigilance is needed to protect 'San Antonio authenticity' and to prevent a gradual slide into generica,' and that 'Authenticity must be protected at all costs.' And finally: 'Maintaining the historical and cultural integrity of San Antonio represents a significant opportunity for future visitor growth.' These statements are quite compelling and mirror my own sentiments. I feel it would be a mistake by city planners and managers to dismiss these valid observations. It would, however, benefit San Antonio, the Alamo, Alamo Plaza, and enhance the visitor experience if you were to adopt a pro-active response to these concerns and recommendations.
I feel I need to voice my deep concern for what I perceive as a level of apathy within the city government toward the issues expressed. To me, the Alamo is a symbol of freedom, courage, and self-sacrifice. But I also see the Alamo devolving into a tragic icon to human indifference. If San Antonio delays in addressing the diminishing quality of authentic Texas history then the Alamo and the Plaza will continue to suffer. Not to mention tourism and businesses.
There are smart measures that can be acted upon should you feel emboldened or inspired. First, perminately close off the portion of Alamo Street that bisects the Plaza. This will open-up the area and allow the Plaza to 'breathe.' This will also provide a safer, more enjoyable experience for the visitor. The tasteless Ripley establishments and their vociferous barker should be relocated elsewhere in the city. These low-class attractions add nothing to Alamo Plaza and in fact, they detract from it. Additionally, there is an overcrowding problem - aggravated by the Ripley freak shows and their close proximity to the Alamo and the River Walk. The relocation of the wax musesum, haunted adventure, 'Tomb Raider,' etc. would relieve some of this pressure. The property where the west wall once stood needs be reclaimed and important historical structures should be restored.
Let me assure you, I'm addressing you, not to censure or admonish anyone, but rather to enlist your help. I implore you to come to the aid of the Alamo 'with all dispatch.' To rescue Alamo Plaza from indignities, ignorance, and indifference...to restore historical veracity and integrity to the ground that was consecrated by the blood of noble men...and return the Alamo to its proper state of reverence and appearance.
Here are some revelent quotes I'd like to pass along for contemplation.
'Could any society have a more worthy, more beneficial object, than that of keeping alive in a country its patriotic enthusiasm, which, after all, is the keynote to a national greatness?'
Clara Driscoll, 1906
'How many of you...today have really contemplated the old Alamo building...and learned the wonderful lesson...of self sacrifice?'
Clara Driscoll, 1906
Let me ask...What is it you value? What Lessons...what legacy would you have our youth adopt? Pop culture and shrunken heads? Or perhaps something more meaningful. Cast your gaze upon the Alamo and the Cenotaph...I believe you'll find the answer.
Before I close, I would be most appreciative if you would kindly respond to this communication. I would like to understand your position on the issues in question and your reasoning for those positions.
I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your valuable time and attention.
El Colorado
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 1:31 pm
L.R. says:
When I visit the Alamo, I am in awe of what happened so many years ago and want my children to understand how history has shaped the lives that we live. It would be a shame if all they remember is the games and activities that surround the Alamo and not the Alamo itself. Preservation is terribly important for all our historical structures.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 1:25 pm
Mike Tower says:
I've visited the Alamo several times over the years and have always been struck by the lack of respect the surrounding exhibit. It is one of the true symbols of freedom, the old west, and Texas. Yet it receives less attention than a federal wilderness area. It deserves to be protected and promoted.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 1:23 pm
Michael Blake says:
BRAVO to your magazine & Gary Cartwright for a GREAT article! WAKE-UP San Antonio! What you have is a national treasure and you are spitting on it. Protect & preserve your history or you will lose it! This site needs to be treated with much better dignity. Get it done.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 1:03 pm
Wade Dillon says:
I cannot agree more with Glenn Effler's comments below. The question truly is...where do we go from here? It is time for the city of San Antonio to wake up and see the true treasure of history that stands in the heart of it. Instead, it is surrounded by tourists traps, Stumpy, and one hundred year old buildings that are historically insignificant when it comes to the Alamo and what happened on the grounds of the original compound. Who really stands on the grounds of Alamo Plaza and goes "Wow, look at the buildings of Alfred Giles." The true spectacle is The Alamo. It is time to restore dignity to Alamo Plaza and for San Antonio to revisit its origins as a beautifully cultural and historically influenced city by doing so!
~Wade Dillon
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 11:56 am
HET says:
The amazing thing is so much could be done by the San Antonio City Council to fix this travesty at little or no cost. Other cities in Texas have created historic districts and control what businesses are allowed in those districts by strict zoning laws, and it is absolutely incredilbe that Alamo Street has not yet been permanently closed to nonemergency traffic.
San Antonio lives on tourists dollars and brags how the Alamo is the number one tourist destination in Texas. The city owns the vast majority of the historic Alamo Compound grounds, yet has done next to nothing to commenorate that soil.
Texas Monthly is to be commended for raising this issue. With the Texas, and the Battle of the Alamo's, bicentennial not all that far away, hopefully, your magazine will continue to keep this issue in the public's eye. Perhaps, soon we will see these historic grounds properly restored and maintained.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 11:11 am
DeniseB. says:
I am so glad someone has finally opened our eyes to the tragedy of Alamo Plaza and what we are doing to this historic site. Every time I take visitors to the Alamo, I am ashamed of what we have done to this "Cradle of Texas Liberty". Gary Forman and his group are visonaries who need the support of us as educators, citizens, and Americans to help move this project forward and make it a reality. This is long over due. Texas Monthly has an obligation to support this project by continuing to cover this story and the on going efforts to restore this Texas Shrine for all of us.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 11:11 am
J Cowan says:
There should be not question as to what is the right thing to do about restoring the Alamo and ridding its distracting neighbors which desecrate the Alamo grounds and its legacy.
The question should be, "How soon can the San Antonio City Council get it done?"
Wake up San Antonio, It's the RIGHT THING TO DO!
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 10:29 am
TRK says:
The west side of Alamo Plaza was the scene of great and remarkable events in history, yet it has been allowed to devolve into a tawdry sideshow complete with sidewalk barkers, utterly unwarranted for such an important and sacred site in a city that aspires to greatness.
Thank you for publishing this article on the current, sorry state of Alamo Plaza. A movement is afoot to restore the area to the dignity it deserves. This is going to be an ongoing story over the coming years, and Texas Monthly, with its long history of excellent, cutting-edge journalism, should be there to cover it.
Wednesday, November 5th, 2008, 8:56 am
C.R. says:
Great article!
I have lived here my whole life thus grown up with the commercialization surrounding our Alamo. A true appreciation and reverance is long overdue and much needed for our future generations.
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 10:13 pm
Michael C. says:
The words "Remember the Alamo" have never been so true. I heard last year that the Alamo was the most visited landmark in Texas. I would imagine that the majority of those people are disappointed when they arrive and see how bad the plaza has become. Imagine if the plaza project becomes a reality. How many more people who come to Texas will visit or revisit the Alamo? Sounds like city officials need to get there heads on straight. You can only help the city by doing this and it's the right thing to do to preserve Texas history.
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 10:09 pm
Greg L. says:
Wake up San Antonio! Preserve your history! If people stand around doing nothing than that is all you will have left of your Alamo!
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 10:08 pm
Jason H. says:
I know I would visit San Antonio over and over again if the new Alamo Plaza was built. Who wouldn't want to visit this historic site if it was made better? How could San Antonio not get in on this oppurtunity?
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 10:07 pm
reba locke says:
this article points out a great need to save an american history
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 10:05 pm
Gary L. says:
As a 7th grade Texas History teacher in San Antonio, it is very sad what has become of our sacred landmark. Every year I teach my students about the fall of the Alamo and it's importance as a symbol during the Texas Revolution. Close to 200 men gave their lives so that we can be free today. Those same students then go to view the Alamo and all they see is a church. Worse a street runs right through the area and novelty shops sit right where our heroes fell. It is very hard to picture what the entire mission looked like, and it's even harder to picture the battle because of all the traffic and stores.
It's time for the people of San Antonio to stand up and demand the politicians who work for US do something to make San Antonio proud of our most sacred landmark. I encourage everyone who has read this article to join in on the letter writing campaign to the Mayor of San Antonio so that this vision can become a reality.
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 2:25 pm
Billy P. says:
Gary Cartwright's article has struck a nerve! The article brings a conscious awareness to the atrocity that has slowly been allowed to transpire on Alamo Plaza.
As an educator, I have often been frustrated by the sounds of Stubby echoing across the plaza and the traffic whizzing across hallowed ground as I try to explain to students and guests the original layout of the mission compound and where historical events related to the famous 13-day siege occurred.
More than once I've had out of town guests scowl at the cadre of amusements on the west side of the plaza and ask the question, "What does the city think about this?"
The time is now for the citizens of San Antonio and the Great State of Texas to rise and lend a voice that demands something be done to address the outer parameters of Alamo Plaza and give this site the historical integrity and dignity that it deserves!
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, 8:52 am
James says:
One only need look at other historical locations to see what the potential could be for the Alamo. Would one ever see a fast food joint set up across from the cabins at Valley Forge? Or near any battle site at Gettysburg? The time has come to reclaim the compound and give it the respect it deserves!
Sunday, November 2nd, 2008, 7:41 pm
AllenW. says:
The article does a great service in bringing the sad state of Alamo Plaza to the attention of Texans and others who honor that place. The article should be a call to arms for residents of San Antonio to pressure city officials to clean up Alamo Plaza. The offensive businesses should be moved and discussions begin about how this hallowed ground can be reclaimed. I visit San Antonio at least once a year and each time I wonder why the city isn't emabarassed by what has become of the Alamo. So much more could be done to inform visitors of what the Alamo was, and WHERE it was, and what happened there that draws millions of people to the spot each year.
Allen
Thursday, October 23rd, 2008, 10:02 pm
Glenn Effler says:
Good article. The question is, "where do we go from here?" Words and good intentions aren't going to accomplish anything meaningful. It's going to take positive action by the city planners of San Antonio before we see real change.
San Antonio continues to use the Alamo as "bait and hook" to lure visitors to the city - this needs to stop. Tourists experience great disappointment when they view the Alamo; expressing the typical comment - "Is that all there is?" And until San Antonio wakes-up, the answer to that question is "yes...that's all there is - sorry." The Alamo deserves better, as do the men on both sides who fought and died there.
As for restoring the Alamo; no one is proposing reconstructing the entire fortress to it's 1836 appearence. Only portions of the south wall and west wall are being considered. The church would remain as it is.
And I differ with Mr. Winders. Its not a question of "do we replace something historic with something that isn't historic" but rather "do reclaim and restore significant history or do we continue to place value on old structures that are historically insignificant?"
There is just one...and only one Alamo. The battle and its heros are known and reveared all over the globe. It's the reason three million visitors come to San Antonio every year. No one visits Alamo Plaza to gaze upon a line of old and historically meaningless buildings that stand across from the Alamo church.
Sometimes, people just don't get it!
Glenn Effler
Thursday, October 23rd, 2008, 9:18 pm
¡Viva Laraza! ¡Viva Reconquista! says:
Geez I wonder who would be anti-Alamo?
FACEBOOK
RSS
TUMBLR
TM
Read Later