Immortal 32

The Immortal 32 were a group of 32 volunteers from the Gonzales Company of Mounted Volunteers from Gonzales, Texas who reinforced the Texians under siege at the Alamo.

History

On March 1,1836 at about 1 a.m., 32 Texans led by Captain George Kimbell and John W. Smith from the town of Gonzales slipped through the Mexican lines and joined the defenders inside the Alamo. They would be the only response to Travis' plea for help. The group became known as the "Immortal 32." [Handbook of Texas|id=GG/hcg7|name=Gonzales County] A letter written by one of the 32, Isaac Millsaps, details events inside the Alamo on the night before the siege. Some historians have argued that this letter is most likely a counterfeit.

The letter stated the following:

Dearest Mary,
Morale is low to-night and many of the men have finished their joy at us, the "Immortal 32". Many rejoiced, though at the suggestion of one Colonel William Travis that sleep was commendable. Indeed we are all tired, as the day has been long for the defenders, and for us, the 32, the fatigue of sneaking past Mexican guard was indeed high. We hope to commence a new attack fresh in the morning to-morrow. At the sight of us, many of the Texan Alamo defenders gave joy, and many sleep in peace to-night with the hope of new recruits coming to-morrow. WE, the thirty-two are much hesitant to tell them of the fact of the Texan government being dispersed- due to much talking and argument; Travis' letters of plea have met no audience, and none know of our plight. it is no wonder that us 32 are indeed low and unable to sleep as we now rethink our plan of joining the Alamo defenders- we shall meet sure death.

completely yours,
Isaac

All the armed defenders within the walls of the Alamo were killed by the Mexican soldiers under the command of General Santa Anna. The Texans would go on to win their independence after Sam Houston wins the Battle of San Jacinto several weeks later.

Notes