Travis wrote this as the seige was pressed around the Alamo. It used to be studied and memorized by school children, or so I have read. All I learned about the Alamo in school was that it happened.
Commandancy of the Alamo-
Bejar, Feby. 24th, 1836
To The People of Texas and All Americans In The World --
February 24, 1836
Fellow citizens compatriots --
I am beseiged, 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, every thing 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.
