Make plans to join the historic Alamo in San Antonio for an exploration of the cannons and artillery of the Texas Revolution. The event, called Cannon Fest, takes place September 30 through October 2 at 300 Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio. Cannon Fest will include artillery displays, interactive drills, and living history demonstrations for all ages on the Alamo grounds. Walk the grounds while learning about the Alamo’s seven 1836 battle cannons and other artillery. Visitors will also enjoy a special appearance by the four-pound bronze cannon, one of 13 cannons unearthed in 1852 in downtown San Antonio.
Things to Do
Have a BLAST at Cannon Fest at The Alamo
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Cannons Hold Much Significance at The Alamo
Photo: Facebook/OfficialAlamo
Cannons hold much significance in the story of The Alamo. The siege of the Alamo began with a cannon shot, fired under orders from Alamo commander William Barret Travis, across the river toward the village of San Antonio de Béjar, in response to a red flag of no quarter over San Fernando Church, author Stephen L. Hardin wrote in his book, “Texian Iliad.”
“Travis informed the enemy courier that a response would be forthcoming. And it was–a single shot hurled from the eighteen-pounder. There could be no mistaking the meaning of such a succinct reply,” Hardin wrote.
Invented in China in the 12th Century
Photo: Facebook/OfficialAlamo
While the history of The Alamo isn’t complete without mention of cannons, cannons were around long before the battle of The Alamo. The history of the cannon spans several hundred years. The cannon was invented in China as early as the 12th century and traces its development from the fire lance, the ancestor of cannons and firearms. They were among the earliest forms of gunpowder artillery, and over time replaced siege engines – among other forms of aging weaponry – on the battlefield.
Come and Take It Day
Photo: Facebook/OfficialAlamo
The Cannon Fest celebration will conclude with Come and Take It day on Monday, Oct. 2, with a special announcement about restoration efforts at Alamo Plaza. Come and Take It was the battle cry in 1835 that began the Battle of Gonzales, which was the first military engagement of the Texas Revolution.
Remember the Alamo and its importance to our Texan history and culture during this fun event. People of all ages are sure to have a blast at Cannon Fest. To learn more, visit The Alamo’s Facebook page.
