One of the earliest Anglo-American settlements in the Lone Star State and the first, west of the Colorado River, Gonzales is referred to as the “Lexington of Texas”. Due to the fact that it was the site of the first battle in the Texas Revolution, its pride in its nickname is still strong today.
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‘Come And Take It’: Gonzales, Birthplace of Texas Independence
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The Battle of Gonzales
Photo: Pinterest/Come and Take It Celebration
In 1831, the Mexican government had granted the town founder’s (Empresario Green DeWitt) request for a small cannon to originally defend the town from attacks by neighboring Indian nations. When the outbreak of hostilities between Anglo settlers and Mexican authorities occurred in 1835, a party of more than 100 Mexican soldiers was sent from San Antonio to take the cannon back. When they arrived, history says that there were only 18 men in Gonzales. However, they still refused to return the cannon and were soon joined by men from the surrounding area. During this time, the town founder’s wife and daughter sewed a flag featuring the cannon together with the words “Come and Take It,” which was flown as the first shots of the war for Texan independence rang out on October 2, 1835. In what became known as the Battle of Gonzales, the Texians successfully resisted the Mexican troops.
Charming and Picturesque
Photo: Pinterest/Kathleen Erwin
Today, apart from its historic significance, the town of Gonzales is a quaint, small town, offering a variety of B&B’s that are charming and picturesque, inns and museums that hold historic significance in the town, and a Pioneer Village Living History Center that encompasses all things Gonzales-related in Texas history. The town also can boast ownership of the Old Jail Museum and the Gonzales Memorial Museum, together with a number of boutiques and antique shops.
A Beautiful Natural Setting
Photo: Facebook/Larry Landry Photography
What also attracts people to and enhances their stay in Gonzales is the beautiful natural setting in which it resides. The Guadalupe River and Palmetto State Park feature paddling trails, and the park has a small lake, the San Marcos River, a few natural bogs, and some barbecue spots and picnic locations. And what of the pride in their nickname and in state? Each October, Gonzales hosts the “Come and Take It Festival,” celebrating that infamous battle and the fight for Texas’ independence.
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