Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site From humble beginnings a Nation was born Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, situated on nearly 300 picturesque acres along the lush banks of the Brazos River, transports visitors back in time to the frontier days where the idealistic dream of Texas becoming an independent nation became a reality. This historic site offers a unique glimpse and insight into the lives and times of the brave and immortal 59 delegates, who, in the midst of a bloody revolution, boldly assembled in a humble building on March 2, 1836 to formally declare Texas’ independence from Mexico. William Barret Travis, in a letter that was received in Washington on the day the Alamo fell, reiterated his determination to fi ht to the death. Travis implored convention delegates to finish their work, saying, “…let the convention go on and make a declaration of 34
Washington County Chamber Magazine ✪ 2022
independence and we will then understand and the world will understand what we are fi hting for. If independence is not declared, I shall lay down my arms and so shall the men under my command.” The delegates finished their work as Santa Anna and his army marched eastward, to capture and kill the political leaders of the rebellion. The work the delegates accomplished before abandoning Washington changed the world forever. Due to these heroes’ actions and the perilous sacrifi es they endured, the Republic of Texas was born and proudly existed as an independent nation from 1836 to 1845. No other state in the United States can match Texas’ proud heritage. Washington on the Brazos is truly the place “Where Texas Became Texas.” www.BrenhamTexas.com
