The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
ClassificationsDecorative arts
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.61
On View
Not on viewThe 1836 medal: Texas Wins Its Independence
After the massacre of the Texan forces at the Alamo and Goliad, General Sam Houston had the only Texan army left to defend Texas against General Santa Anna, the Mexican president-turned-dictator. Houston retreated until he had a chance to trap Santa Anna's army at the San Jacinto River near Harrisburg. After destroying the bridge so that neither side could escape, Houston's men, shouting "Remember the Alamo!" attacked on the afternoon of April 21. In 18 minutes the battle was over. Out of Santa Anna's army of over 1300 men, 630 were reported killed. Only nine of the 910 Texans were killed and 30 wounded.
Santa Anna disappeared but was later discovered disguised in a private's uniform. On the medal he is shown surrendering to General Houston, who is sitting under a tree, having recieved a bullet wound in his ankle. General Santa Anna agreed to withdraw Mexican troops from Texas. In one decisive battle the independence of Texas had been decided.
Julian Vannerson
February 19, 1853
