The U.S. Army and the Alamo, 1846–1877

For nearly three decades the US Army had a direct relationship with the Alamo, occupying it as a supply depot, and twice, saving it from destruction. This long-term army occupation ultimately helped preserve the Alamo. While individual soldiers expressed a sensitivity to the site's heroic heritage, the army as an institution did not operate out of a generous appreciation of the Alamo's historic legacy, but rather as a practical requirement for convenient and secure storage, office, and workshop space. The US Army's involvement with the Alamo began with the War with Mexico and, except for an interruption during the Civil War (during which time the iconic landmark was occupied by the Confederate Army), extended to 1877. Here, Smith details the military occupation of the Alamo.