The Siege of Bexar: Surrender of the Mexican Garrison

On December 9, 1835, the Texas Army, led by General Sam Houston and other commanders, formally accepted the surrender of the Mexican garrison in San Antonio de Béxar following the protracted siege known as the Siege of Bexar. This victory marked a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution.

Context and Prelude

Texas Revolution

The Texas Revolution was a rebellion of colonists from the United States and Tejanos (Texans of Hispanic descent) against the centralized Mexican government. The conflict stemmed from multiple grievances, including the revocation of the Mexican Constitution of 1824, which had granted significant autonomy to the states.

Catalyst

In late 1835, Texian forces were galvanized by prior confrontations and seized control of various Texas locales. The Mexican forces, led by General Martín Perfecto de Cos, concentrated their presence in San Antonio de Béxar, a strategic stronghold.

The Siege of Bexar

Initiation

The siege commenced on October 12, 1835, under the command of Texian leaders such as Stephen F. Austin and later under General Edward Burleson. The Texian Army, composed of volunteer forces, sought to expel Mexican troops repeatedly reinforcing Béxar.

Course of Action

The Texians employed a strategy of harassment and sporadic assaults intended to weaken the Mexican defenses. Skirmishes occurred around the perimeter of the city, with the Texians fortifying positions in surrounding areas.

Climax and Surrender

By early December, after a major offensive push including house-to-house fighting, Texian forces progressively infiltrated the town. On December 9, facing untenable losses and a formidable Texian position, General Cos negotiated surrender terms. The agreement stipulated that Mexican forces would vacate Béxar, with a promise from Cos not to engage in further hostilities against the Texian cause.

Aftermath and Significance

• Escape of Mexican Forces: General Cos and his troops retreated south of the Rio Grande, significantly weakening Mexican military presence in Texas temporarily.
• Boost to Texian Morale: The successful siege and subsequent surrender was a significant morale booster for the Texians, further galvanizing the revolution.
• Strategic Control: Control of San Antonio granted the Texian Army a crucial foothold and staging ground, pivotal in the ensuing battles, including the famous Battle of the Alamo in 1836.

The Siege of Bexar proved instrumental in the course towards Texian independence. However, it also presaged future struggles, as the lull in conflict was short-lived, leading to further engagements as the revolution escalated.