SPECIAL EVENT INFORMATION

The Texas Memorial Illumination at San Jacinto

For more information about the event, please call Gina Manlove at 713-376-6281 or Email Gina Manlove.

San Jacinto Museum of History information

Why go to the Monument and Museum?

Seeing the San Jacinto Monument in person is an experience you will remember. The tall column, topped with a three-dimensional star, is carved with the monumental story of Texas independence. Enter the museum through the massive doors into the dramatic foyer to experience over 500 years of history, and learn how the past influences your world today. Immerse yourself in all that makes the Lone Star great. From pre-Columbian artifacts to tools of westward expansion to the conflicts that shook the world, the San Jacinto Museum of History brings history to life in a way your whole family can enjoy.

Hidden Treasures

Visiting a museum on a battlefield, you might expect to see treasures like Sam Houston’s ring inscribed with the word Honor, Antonio López de Santa Anna’s glove, Edward Burleson’s pistol, and the pocket watch that General Cos gave to Dr. George M. Patrick in thanks for his medical care after the Battle of San Jacinto. Hidden in plain sight in the museum gallery are unexpected treasures, such as a knife used by David Crockett at the Alamo, and Gov. Hogg’s black carbon and diamond ring. Many of the museum’s treasures remain tucked away until they are rotated into exhibit – a reason to make a return visit.

Lesser-known figure biography

Angel Navarro ran away from his Corsican home at age 13 or 14. He spent time in Italy and Spain and finally came to Spanish colonial Mexico where he learned the merchant trade. Angel brought this iron nutcracker with him from Corsica. It passed down to his son, José Antonio, who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. José Antonio was the only native Tejano delegate to the Texas Statehood Convention of 1845, which decided for annexation with the United States. He staved off factions who tried to limit suffrage in the new Republic to the "free white population." Navarro served three terms in the Texas Senate. Navarro County was named in honor of this unwavering Tejano, and the county seat, Corsicana, was named in honor of his Corsican-born father, Angel.

About the Battlefield

Beginning in 1837, the San Jacinto Battleground has been a destination for visitors, most of whom came by water. The first state park in Texas was formed around the burial site for those who died on the battlefield; today, this expanded 1,200-acre park includes markers that reveal information on the position and movement of commanders and troops, memorials to those fallen, and the towering San Jacinto Monument and San Jacinto Museum of History. Walk in the Texian soldiers’ footsteps on the grounds, bring a picnic, or, like John James Audubon in 1837, do some birdwatching.