Gonzales Memorial Museum | Belle Oaks Inn

Everyone remembers the Alamo, but how many people remember the Battle of Gonzales? If you’re into history or stories about rebels fighting for freedom, you’ll love learning about the history of Gonzales. This small city has immortalized itself as the birthplace of Texas Independence, and for good reason. From the “Come and Take It” Cannon to the Immortal 32, Gonzales played a pivotal role in Texas history. Proud of that history, the city of Gonzales built the Gonzales Memorial Museum to display their fighting spirit, and it’s well worth a visit. Here are some of the highlights of the tour.

The Building and Grounds

The building's design is perfect for vacation photos, as it is a classic showcase of Art Deco architecture. Built in 1936-1937 with Texas shell stone and trimmed in Cordova cream limestone, the building has a timeless, symmetrical beauty. The complex includes two exhibition wings, an outdoor amphitheater, and a reflecting pool designed and donated by the San Antonio architectural firm of Phelps and Dewees. The grounds are beautifully maintained with wide-open spaces and plenty of benches, perfect for spending a quiet moment reflecting by the reflecting pool. While you're walking around the grounds, make sure you stop by the "Immortal Thirty-two" monument.

The Immortal 32

The "Immortal 32" monument is a tapering 8'10 obelisk made of Texas Pink Granite. The stone includes a bronze sculpted panel attached to the face of the monument and a hone-finished silver-gray Georgia marble plaque honoring "The Old Eighteen." With this impressive monument dedicated to them, you may wonder, 'Who were the immortal 32?' and 'Why do they matter?' Those are great questions. Here are the answers:

The Immortal 32 were the only men to answer the call to Defend the Alamo in 1836. Despite knowing that their chances of survival were slim, these men stood alongside other Texas revolutionaries in the fight against Mexican forces.

All of the defenders, the Immortal 32 included, fought valiantly during the 13-day siege of the Alamo. Although they all ultimately perished in the battle, their sacrifice inspired others to join the cause for Texas independence. While the Immortal 32 did not make it home, their names and legacy are honored and remembered at the Gonzales Memorial Museum, ensuring that their story is never forgotten.

The Old Eighteen:

Did you notice that we didn’t mention the “Old Eighteen” when talking about the history behind the monument? That’s because they deserve a section of their own.

The Original 18 were immortalized as the pioneers of the resistance movement. They are often credited with delaying Lt. Castañeda's dragoons for two crucial days, allowing time for a Texan force to gather in Gonzales. While some accounts suggest a military confrontation between the eighteen and the Mexican forces, others imply that they were a part of the larger group that engaged in the Battle of Gonzales or the "Texas Lexington." The eighteen men, likely serving as lookouts and messengers rather than a fully armed resistance force, were initially the only response to the Mexican arrival.

As news of the Mexican army's arrival spread, citizen soldiers from the DeWitt and Austin Colonies quickly mobilized. This confrontation is often cited as the beginning of the Texas Revolution, making those who participated some of the original Texas revolutionaries. Several of these men went on to fight in the Alamo. The bravery and sacrifice of the Old Eighteen underscored the Texan resolve against Santa Ana's Centralista government oppression, making them deserving of their shared space on the memorial monument.

The "Come and Take It" Cannon

One of the most iconic artifacts on display at the Gonzales Memorial Museum is the "Come and Take It" cannon. This cannon holds a special place in Texas history, as it was used by Texan settlers in 1835 to defend their rights against Mexican troops.

The cannon's story begins when the Mexican government loaned the weapon to the settlers of Gonzales for defense against local Native American tribes. However, when tensions between the Texan settlers and the Mexican government started rising, the settlers refused to return the cannon when requested.

In response, Mexican troops were sent to retrieve the cannon and were greeted with a homemade flag displaying the now iconic slogan "Come and Take It." A skirmish ensued, and the settlers successfully repelled the Mexican troops, keeping the cannon in Gonzales.

The "Come and Take It" cannon became a symbol of Texas independence and defiance against oppression. Today, it serves as a reminder of the bravery and determination of the early Texan settlers.

Visiting Gonzales, Texas

The Gonzales Memorial Museum is open to the public and offers a unique opportunity to explore Texas history up close. Visitors can view artifacts and exhibits that bring the past to life, including period clothing, weapons, and even an original log house. Guided tours are available for those who want to delve deeper into the stories behind the exhibits.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about Texas's past, a visit to Gonzales, Texas is a must. After you are finished touring the Gonzales Memorial Museum, come and stay at the Belle Oaks Inn Bed and Breakfast. Our historic inn features beautiful rooms that capture the old Texas charm.