On the north front, beneath the heading:
“TWO DAYS BEFORE THE BATTLE”
is recorded the statement of General Houston:
“This morning we are in preparation to meet Santa Anna. It is the only chance of saving Texas. From time to time I have looked for reinforcements in vain: We will only have about seven hundred men to march with besides the camp guard. We go on to conquer. It is wisdom growing out of necessity to meet the enemy now. Every consideration enforces it. No previous occasion would justify it. The troops are in fine spirits and now is the time for action. We shall use our best efforts to fight the enemy to such advantage as will insure victory though the odds are greatly against us.
“I leave the result in the hands of a wise God, and rely upon His providence.
“My country will do justice to those who serve her. The right for which we fight will be secured, and Texas free.”
Below this is inscribed: “REMEMBER THE ALAMO”
On the south front beneath the heading: “THE DAY AFTER THE BATTLE”
is the report of Thomas J. Rusk, Secretary of War:
“The sun was sinking in the horizon as the battle commenced, but, at the close of the conflict, the sun of liberty and independence rose in Texas, never, it is to be hoped, to be obscured by the clouds of despotism. We have read of deeds of chivalry, and pursued with ardour the annals of war; we have contemplated, with the highest emotions of sublimity, the loud roaring thunder, the desolating tornado, and the withering simoon of the desert; but neither of these, nor all, inspired us with emotions like those felt on this occasion! There was a general cry which pervaded the ranks: Remember the ALAMO! Remember LA BAHIA! These words electrified all. Onward was the cry. The unerring aim and irresistible energy of the Texan army could not be withstood, it was freemen fighting against the minions of tyranny and the result proved the inequality of such a contest.”