San Jacinto Day
San Jacinto Day, celebrated on April 21, commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, which secured Texas' independence from Mexico. The battle lasted just 18 minutes but had a lasting impact on history. General Sam Houston led his Texan troops in a surprise attack against Mexican forces commanded by Antonio López de Santa Anna, resulting in a decisive victory. Santa Anna was captured, and soon after, he signed treaties that effectively ended Mexican control over Texas. This victory marked the beginning of Texas as an independent republic, later leading to its annexation into the United States in 1845.
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| Battle of San Jacinto Artistic interpretation by Henry Arthur McArdle (1836-1908) |
Today, Texans honor San Jacinto Day with celebrations that include reenactments of the battle, parades, and festivals that highlight the state's rich heritage. The San Jacinto Monument, standing at 567 feet, remains a lasting tribute to this historic event. Visitors can explore the battleground site and museum to learn more about the fight for independence. San Jacinto Day serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of early Texans, preserving their legacy for future generations.
The following family members served with General Sam Houston in the Battle of San Jacinto.
John Sadler is our direct ancestor - my 3rd great-grandfather.
Three of the men listed were brothers: John Andrew Box, Nelson Box, and Thomas Griffin Box. They were the sons of Stephen F. Box. Their cousin, James Edward Box, was the son of John Morris Box. They were all first cousins of our direct ancestor, Michael Box. The Box family were early settlers into Texas.
Box, James
Edward
Box, John
Andrew
Box, Nelson
Box, Thomas
Griffin
Hallmark,
William Calvert (md to Dicey Box)
Lamb, George
A. (K)
Lindley, Joseph
Sadler, John
Below is the donation land certificate given to John Sadler for his service. Note that it mentions John Sadler "fought at the Battle of San Jacinto 21 Apr 1836." To read about John Sadler, click here.
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| John Sadler Bounty Land Certificate |
Below is a photo of me sitting on the steps of the San Jacinto Monument. And then a picture of the entire monument. We took the elevator up to the observation deck. Inside the base of the monument is the San Jacinto Museum of History.
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| San Jacinto Monument Wikipedia |
