Today marks San Jacinto Day. While those outside of Texas may be unfamiliar with the name, it is arguably the most significant date in our history. On this day in 1836, General Sam Houston and the Texas Army defeated General Santa Anna at the junction of the San Jacinto River and Buffalo Bayou in Harris County.
The engagement lasted a mere 18 minutes, making it one of the shortest battles in history. During the afternoon siesta on April 21, General Houston and his small but determined force surprised the much larger Mexican Army. Although the Texans numbered only about 750 men against approximately 1,500, they charged with the now-famous cries of “Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad“
Having declared independence at Washington-on-the-Brazos on March 2, Texas finally emerged as a free nation. The Texas remained an independent Republic until joining the United States via treaty in 1845.
Today, the San Jacinto Monument stands on the battlefield site to honor every individual who fought for Texas independence. Reaching a height of 567 feet, it remains the second-highest monument in the world.
The Dee Zone 