There’s no shortage of books written about the Alamo and the Texas Revolution, which is perfect for day 5 of Museum Week, because today’s theme is books. To help with your future reading selections, we asked members of the Alamo’s education department what their favorite Alamo book is and why.
Dr. R. Bruce Winders, Alamo Director of History and Curation
One of the most useful resources in understanding the Texas Revolution is a diary written by a Virginian who arrived in Texas in early 1836. Although an officer in the Virginia militia, William Fairfax Gray did not come to fight. He represented backers of a proposed loan to the new government, a deal they hoped to secure with Texas land. Needing to lobby officials, Gray headed to the town of Washington on the Brazos River where delegates were gathering to decide Texas’ fate. Owing to Gray’s keen observations, we have a clear idea of the daily activities of the convention as it declared independence and set about establishing a new nation. He also left an important record about how quickly news of the Alamo (its siege and fall) traveled through Texas. Gray’s diary provides researchers with a valuable behind the scenes look at the Texas Revolution.
Machaia McClenny, Alamo Education Specialist
As a former teacher and librarian and current employee of the Alamo Education Department, making history come alive through literature is an appealing prospect. Nathan Hale’s Alamo All-Stars is a beautifully rendered, historically researched, and oh-so-fun graphic novel that is a fabulous read for children and adults. I had become familiar with Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales as a librarian because they were so popular, I couldn’t keep them on the library shelves. When I saw that he had written a book all about the Alamo and Texas History, I immediately picked up a copy, devoured it, and now keep it by my desk for quick reference. Furthermore, when friends ask what book they should read about the Alamo, I have an easy answer. I recently sent it to a friend for her grandson. She told me that once he started reading, he was so enchanted by the story, they didn’t hear another word from him until he read the final page.
Sherri Driscoll, Alamo Education Programs Coordinator
My favorite book on the Alamo is Blood of Noble Men: The Alamo Siege & Battle, An Illustrated Chronology by Alan C. Huffines. I say that because I think it is a valuable resource for all students of Alamo history. Whether it be a 4th grader studying Texas history or anyone who wants an easy to navigate, succinct summary of the events of those famous 13 days and an understanding of the people and events that influenced the outcome. The book is laid out chronologically and begins on Day One, Tuesday, February 23, 1836 and ends on Day Thirteen, March 6, 1836. You can turn to any given day and find out a plethora of information. For instance, Colonel Almonte indicates that the tri-colored flag with two stars representing Coahuila and Texas was hoisted as the Mexican Army marched into town. On the second day, February 24th, we learn that Mrs. Juana Alsbury, a relative of James Bowie, indicates that Colonel Bowie is very sick with typhoid fever. On Friday, February 26th, a “Norther” blew in and the temperature dropped to 39 degrees. “Noble Men” puts the events, conditions and details of the siege and battle in context. Together with the wonderful, skillful maps and images by Gary Zaboly, it is a must-have resource for every student of Alamo history.
