Governor Perry, Senate and House recognize historic moment in the making

AUSTIN — Col. William Travis’ plea for help at the Alamo may have been too late for him, but his “Victory or Death” letter’s historic return Friday has marshaled broad support for the Alamo today.

“It is not surprising, but still fulfilling to see everyone fall in like this to celebrate the historic importance not only the Travis letter, but the Alamo,” said Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson. “Bringing this letter to the people, where it was written, is bound to inspire a new generation for liberty.”

Travis’ famous “Victory or Death” letter is set to return to the Alamo Friday. The letter will be on public display for two weeks — from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — in a custom-made, climate controlled and bullet-proof case. As always, the Alamo is free and there is no charge to see the letter in this once-in-a-lifetime display.

“I wish to thank Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, the Texas General Land Office Archives and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas for their efforts to bring this remarkable man’s words back to the Alamo for the first time in the ensuing 177 years,” Gov. Perry said in a recent greetings published by his office.

State Senator Leticia Van de Putte sponsored a resolution in honor of the letters return on February 6 and state Rep. Mike Villareal’s House Resolution passed today.

“The Victory or Death letter is an invaluable reminder of the cost of freedom, and it is truly fitting that it be returned to its place of origin so that all people can better appreciate its impact on the foundations of Texas freedom” the House and Senate resolutions proclaimed.

Patterson said he hopes the success of the letters’ public display will help inspire the Legislature to invest an addition $1.6 million to better preserve and protect the Alamo. “I am confident that lawmakers will remember the Alamo this session and help us protect the Shrine of Texas Liberty for another 177 years.”

For more information on the Alamo, please visit www.travisletter.org or the Official Alamo website at www.thealamo.org. Stay posted with regular updates by clicking like on the Travis Letter Returns page on Facebook.