The Alamo Opens Palisade Exhibit

December 20, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT
Kevin Femmel, Alamo Trust, Inc.
kfemmel@thealamo.org
Office (210) 225-1391x3005
Mobile (210) 836-8616

Side view of the Alamo Palisade Exhibit
The Palisade Exhibit sits just outside the Alamo Church

The Alamo has opened a new outdoor exhibit, the Alamo Palisade, which will help millions of visitors better understand where the 1836 battlefield was. The Palisade Exhibit, a partial reconstruction of the fence-like fortification used during the Battle of the Alamo, was unveiled to the public during a ceremony last week.

"We stand here today to ensure that the Alamo will never be forgotten," said Commissioner Bush. "It will stand for centuries to come and remind all who enter that the price of freedom is never cheap—but the people of Texas have always been willing to pay it. I thank Lt. Gov. Patrick for his steadfast support, and I look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen and preserve the Alamo for future generations."

"The story of sacrifice, bravery, and heroism that encapsulates the Alamo continues to inspire millions of liberty-loving people across the globe to this day. I have said in the past that the Alamo can be the premier historic site in America, and the unveiling of this Palisade represents another step in the restoration of this hallowed ground," said Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. "I'd like to thank the Texas General Land Office, the City of San Antonio, and the Alamo Trust for helping bring us to this day. As Lt. Governor, I will never retreat from preserving and protecting our sacred Alamo that our forefathers gave their lives to defend.

Located approximately where the original palisade was in 1836, this exhibit brings history to life in Alamo Plaza through experiential learning in the spaces where history happened. It is believed that David Crockett fought at the Palisade. The exhibit also features a replica of a four-pounder bronze cannon.

Three men cutting the ribbon on the new Palisade Exhibit
Pictured left to right: Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Land Commissioner George P. Bush, and San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg at the Palisade Exhibit unveiling ceremony.

The Palisade Exhibit features vertical cedar posts like what would have been used in 1836. A ramp made from hardwood decking planks with wood railings is included for accessibility. Construction began in October and no work penetrated more than one foot below the existing grade.

Violin laying on a purple backgdrop
On loan from the Witte Museum, this violin dates back to 1819.

The Alamo will also put on display a special 19th-century violin on loan from the Witte Museum. This unique artifact will be on display for a limited time until January 3. 

The Palisade joins the Alamo's 18-Pounder Losoya House as the second recreated portion of the 1836 fortress. These two exhibits, along with the relocated Jose Toribio Losoya statue in the plaza, help give visitors a greater understanding of history where it happened. Along with the closure of Alamo Street in front of the Church, the visiting experience is now deeper than it ever has been, especially for people who only have time to stroll through the plaza.

About Alamo Trust, Inc. | Located in the heart of San Antonio, the Alamo serves as a sacred memorial to all those who lived, fought and died there. Visitors pay homage to the heroes of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, a defining moment in Texas History. Alamo Trust, Inc., or the Alamo, tells that story of Texas independence, as part of its 300-year history to over 1.6 million visitors every year. To visit the Alamo is to witness living history, experience authentic artifacts and admire an iconic landmark that shaped the country. Visit theAlamo.org.