Our History
For more than a century, the Alamo Mission Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas has been dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and ideals of the Republic of Texas. The chapter was organized on April 18, 1906, and officially recognized by the Executive Committee of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas during its Fifteenth Annual Meeting in Goliad later that month. Founded by descendants of some of Texas' earliest settlers—including members of the Deaf Smith, J.W. Smith, Sam S. Smith, Jose Cassiano, and Canary Island families—the chapter has welcomed generations of Texans who share a commitment to honoring our state's rich and diverse history. Today, more than 120 years later, the Alamo Mission Chapter continues that legacy through education, preservation, community service, and civic leadership.
A Legacy of Service
What began with just nine members in 1906 has grown into one of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas' largest and most active chapters. Throughout our history, members have volunteered thousands of hours preserving historic sites, supporting educational programs, promoting historical research, and strengthening our community's connection to the past. The chapter has proudly hosted numerous DRT State Conventions and remains an active leader within the statewide organization. As one of San Antonio's longest-standing historical organizations, we continue to honor our founders by preserving the stories, traditions, and values that shaped Texas.
Traditions That Continue Today
Many of our chapter's most cherished traditions began nearly a century ago and continue to be an important part of San Antonio's cultural heritage. Our annual Pilgrimage to the Alamo, first held on San Jacinto Day in 1925, has become an official Fiesta San Antonio event. Each year, participants from across our community gather to honor those who gave their lives for Texas independence. That same year, the chapter began participating in the Battle of Flowers Parade, continuing a tradition that celebrates Texas history before thousands of spectators each spring. Every March, we commemorate Texas Independence Day and Texas Flag Day, presenting Texas flags to local schools named for heroes and leaders of Texas and American independence. We also observe the Fall of the Alamo through a solemn remembrance and our annual Siege of Béxar Luncheon, honoring those who sacrificed during the Texas Revolution. These traditions connect today's Texans with the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that define our state's history.
Educating Future Generations
Education has always been at the heart of the Alamo Mission Chapter's mission. We believe preserving Texas history means sharing it with future generations. Through scholarships, grants, educational outreach, classroom presentations, essay and art contests, teacher recognition, book donations, and hands-on learning experiences, we inspire Texans of all ages to discover and appreciate our state's remarkable history. Beginning in 2026, the chapter established the Amanda Fenley Webb & James E. Webb, Jr. Memorial Grant, awarding up to $50,000 annually to nonprofit organizations, schools, and educational institutions whose projects preserve, interpret, and advance Texas history through education, preservation, research, and the arts. Our educational programs continue to grow through initiatives such as the Traveling History Trunk, which brings engaging, hands-on Texas history presentations directly into local schools, allowing students to experience history beyond the pages of a textbook. Each year, we also recognize excellence through scholarships, essay and art contests, awards honoring outstanding students and educators, and other educational initiatives that encourage a lifelong appreciation for Texas history. We are especially proud to sponsor our Children's Republic of Texas (CRT) Chapter, founded on May 11, 1934, inspiring young Texans to carry forward the ideals of preservation, patriotism, and service that have guided our organization for generations.
Our Impact Today
While our history spans more than 120 years, our commitment remains firmly focused on the future. The Alamo Mission Chapter continues to preserve Texas history through historic preservation projects, educational programming, community partnerships, scholarships, grants, publications, and volunteer service. Our members support schools, preserve historical landmarks and artifacts, recognize students and educators, and invest in projects that ensure the stories of Texas remain accessible to future generations. From annual traditions like the Pilgrimage to the Alamo and Siege of Béxar Luncheon to innovative educational initiatives such as the Amanda Fenley Webb & James E. Webb, Jr. Memorial Grant, our chapter continues to honor its founding purpose while embracing new opportunities to educate, preserve, and inspire.
Looking Ahead
For more than a century, the Alamo Mission Chapter has served as a steward of Texas history. As we look to the future, we remain committed to preserving our heritage, strengthening our communities, and inspiring future generations through education, historic preservation, and service. The stories of the Republic of Texas belong to all Texans. It is our privilege and our responsibility to ensure they continue to be remembered, celebrated, and shared for generations to come.