Texans celebrate their state's 174th Independence Day
By COURTNEY COPE
Issue date: 3/4/10 Section: Features
March 2 serves as an important day in Texas history for a number of reasons, including the state's official Flag Day, Sam Houston Day and most importantly the anniversary of the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence. On this date, Texas gained its independence from Mexico, becoming the Republic of Texas as a result of the victory over Mexican troops at the battle of San Jacinto.
Prior to 1836, Texas was considered home to multiple groups of people including native Americans, French and Spanish settlers and immigrants moving westward in the newly formed United States of America. In an effort to break away from the tyrannous rule of Spain, Texans led by Sam Houston, whose birthday also falls on March 2, battled Mexican armies led by Santa Anna. Texas independence was secured in a decisive victory at the battle of San Jacinto, in which the actual fighting lasted only an estimated 18 minutes. Texas declared itself a democratic republic, and on March 2, 1836, 59 men gathered in a blacksmith shop at Washington-on-the-Brazos to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. This monumental event occurred less than one year after the first battle of the Texas Revolution had been fought in October 1835 in Gonzales, Texas.
The Republic of Texas was annexed into the Union by the United States Congress on December 29, 1845. In an interview conducted by Austin-based newspaper, the Austin-American Statesman, chairman of the history department at Texas State University Frank de la Teja stated that "so much of our Texas mythology comes out of the fact that Texas was a republic; we've come to see Texas history as very much one that springs forth from Texas Independence Day."
Cities throughout the state celebrate Texas Independence Day in a variety of ways, from parades to barbecues and even full costume re-enactments of the battle of San Jacinto. As Texans look upon their state's flag this March 2, may they remember and honor those who fought to preserve the pride of the Lone Star State.
The Texas Independence Celebration Committee at Tarleton recently postponed their annual Check Wagon Dinner due to lack of funding, despite efforts to raise money. Committee member Amanda Richie said TICC is currently still planning on rescheduling the event, once funds are available.
Prior to 1836, Texas was considered home to multiple groups of people including native Americans, French and Spanish settlers and immigrants moving westward in the newly formed United States of America. In an effort to break away from the tyrannous rule of Spain, Texans led by Sam Houston, whose birthday also falls on March 2, battled Mexican armies led by Santa Anna. Texas independence was secured in a decisive victory at the battle of San Jacinto, in which the actual fighting lasted only an estimated 18 minutes. Texas declared itself a democratic republic, and on March 2, 1836, 59 men gathered in a blacksmith shop at Washington-on-the-Brazos to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. This monumental event occurred less than one year after the first battle of the Texas Revolution had been fought in October 1835 in Gonzales, Texas.
The Republic of Texas was annexed into the Union by the United States Congress on December 29, 1845. In an interview conducted by Austin-based newspaper, the Austin-American Statesman, chairman of the history department at Texas State University Frank de la Teja stated that "so much of our Texas mythology comes out of the fact that Texas was a republic; we've come to see Texas history as very much one that springs forth from Texas Independence Day."
Cities throughout the state celebrate Texas Independence Day in a variety of ways, from parades to barbecues and even full costume re-enactments of the battle of San Jacinto. As Texans look upon their state's flag this March 2, may they remember and honor those who fought to preserve the pride of the Lone Star State.
The Texas Independence Celebration Committee at Tarleton recently postponed their annual Check Wagon Dinner due to lack of funding, despite efforts to raise money. Committee member Amanda Richie said TICC is currently still planning on rescheduling the event, once funds are available.
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Austin Plumber
posted 3/06/10 @ 7:48 AM CST
We've lived in Texas for 21 years since we moved here from the east coast and we love it here. And we marvel at how proud native folks are about Texas - specifically independent Texas. (Continued…)
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