Discover Military History Deep in the Heart of Texas
Cowboys and Indians were just the beginning — the Lone Star State has fought in major conflicts ranging from legendary battles with Mexico to the Civil War and two World Wars.
The Alamo, San Antonio
“Remember the Alamo” they do. Each year millions flock to this 4.2-acre complex, home to the most celebrated military engagement in Texas history. Here, a small band of Texans — including Davy Crockett — held off General Santa Anna and his troops for 13 legendary days and came to symbolize sacrifice in the name of liberty.
Fort Davis National Historic Site, Fort Davis
One of the Southwest’s best-preserved Army frontier forts, Fort Davis once protected mail coaches and freight wagons from the Comanche and Apache Indians before being abandoned at the start of the Civil War. Later, African American regiments, known as Buffalo Soldiers, rebuilt the fort. Today, two dozen restored historic buildings and more than 100 ruins remain.
Battleship Texas State Historic Site, LaPorte
The first battleship memorial museum in the United States honors the Texas, the World War I and II veteran and 1948 flagship of the Texas Navy. Today, it’s toured in the midst of the 1,200-acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, where Texas won independence.
Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio
One of the army’s oldest installations, Fort Sam Houston encompasses more than 900 buildings in its well-preserved historic districts, including a supply depot that once housed Apache war chief Geronimo.
Liendo Plantation, Hempstead
One of Texas’ first cotton plantations, Liendo transformed into cavalry and infantry training camps, an internment camp and hospital during the Civil War, and, later, served as headquarters for General Custer. Today, its Civil War Weekend each November attracts thousands.
