THIS WEEK IN AMERICAN HISTORY: Travis’ letter from the Alamo

FEBRUARY 24, 1836 – From the Alamo, William Barret Travis wrote and sent out his famous “Victory or Death” letter seeking reinforcements and supplies from supporters. 

The letter is renowned as “one of the masterpieces of American patriotism” or even “one of the greatest declarations of defiance in the English language.”

It is the most famous document in the annals of Texas history.

To the People of Texas & All Americans in the World:

Fellow citizens & compatriots – I am besieged, by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna.

I have sustained a continual Bombardment & cannonade for 24 hours & have not lost a man.

The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken – I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, & our flag still waves proudly from the walls.

I shall never surrender or retreat.

Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism & everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch – The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily & will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days.

If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country.

Victory or Death

William Barret Travis

Lt. Col. comdt.

P.S. The Lord is on our side – When the enemy appeared in sight we had not three bushels of corn – We have since found in deserted houses 80 or 90 bushels & got into the walls 20 or 30 head of Beeves.