More than 250 Years of Alamo History
Click here for a historic map of the Alamo

1519
Spain claims the region comprising the present state of Texas.

1718
The Presidio San Antonio de Bexar and the Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) are established on the San Antonio River.

1724
Construction started on the present Alamo chapel.

1793
Mission Valero is the first Texas mission to be closed. Its lands are divided up among the surviving convert Indian families.

1801
The Second Flying Company of San Carlos del Alamo de Parras occupies the Mission Valero as a garrison. Hence the name "The Alamo".

1822
Stephen F. Austin brings the first 300 Anglo families to help Mexico settle Texas.

1824
Mexican Constitution promises Texas statehood.

1834
Following a series of revolutions, Santa Anna is elected president and starts to centralize the Mexican government.

1835
First shots of Texas revolt fired at Gonzales in October. By December, Texian forces have captured Goliad and San Antonio.

1836
Santa Anna invades Texas. Texas declares independence. Siege and Battle of the Alamo. Santa Anna defeated at San Jacinto on April 21.

1845
After being an independent republic for nine years, Texas annexed to the United States. War between United States and Mexico follows the next year.

1850
US Army repairs Alamo. First roof and now famous hump erected over chapel facade.

1861
Civil War begins. Alamo used by Confederate Army.

1888
Alamo Chapel, having been used as a warehouse, is sold by Catholic Church to the State of Texas.

1905
State of Texas grants custodianship to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.