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San Jacinto Day Bus Tour

Presented by The Heritage Society Saturday, April 25 • 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Departing from The Heritage Society, Sam Houston Park

Honor San Jacinto Day with a full‑day historical immersion that traces the decisive moments leading to Texas independence. This guided bus tour follows the path of the Texian Army, visits key sites tied to the Battle of San Jacinto, and concludes with a celebratory return ride featuring champagne as we head back to The Heritage Society. Our Texian Tour Guide, Dr. Don Williams, has created an exclusive tour experience for members and future members.

Pricing

  • Members: $100

  • Non‑Members: $150

Pricing includes transportation, guided interpretation, lunch, museum admission, observatory deck access, and champagne on the return trip.

Why San Jacinto Matters

On April 21, 1836, the Texian Army under General Sam Houston launched a daring surprise attack on General Santa Anna’s Mexican forces. The battle lasted just 18 minutes, but its impact reshaped the future of Texas and the nation. The San Jacinto Monument—still the tallest masonry column in the world—stands as a testament to the people, sacrifices, and stories that forged the Republic of Texas.

America 250 Connection

As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250—the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—The Heritage Society is proud to highlight Texas’s unique contributions to the nation’s story. The Battle of San Jacinto, though fought in 1836, stands as a defining moment in the broader arc of American history. The Texian victory paved the way for the Republic of Texas, its later annexation into the United States, and the dramatic territorial changes that shaped the modern nation. This tour invites guests to explore how the struggle for independence in Texas echoes the same themes celebrated during America 250: courage, self‑determination, and the ongoing evolution of the American identity.

Full-Day Itinerary

8:00 AM – Departure from The Heritage Society

Guests board the bus at Sam Houston Park. Light morning refreshments provided.

1. Vince’s Bridge Site

The Strategic Sabotage That Changed Everything

Our first stop examines the site of Vince’s Bridge, where scout Deaf Smith carried out Sam Houston’s critical order to destroy the crossing. This bold move prevented the Mexican Army from receiving reinforcements or retreating—effectively sealing their fate before the battle even began.

2. Santa Anna Capture Site

Where the General Was Found

Less than a mile from Vince’s Bridge lies the location where General Santa Anna was captured the day after the battle. As we approach the Washburn Tunnel, the bus will turn right to reach the site where the disguised general was recognized by his own soldiers. His capture brought the Texas Revolution to a definitive close.

3. Pasadena Historical Society & the Strawberry House

A Vince Family Landmark

Just across the freeway on the way to the battleground, we stop at the Pasadena Historical Society, home to the Strawberry House. Owned by the Vince Brothers, this is the property where Santa Anna stole a horse in a desperate attempt to escape Texian search parties. Guests will have time to explore the grounds and learn about the Vince family’s role in early Texas history.

Lunch at Monument Inn Restaurant – 12:00 PM

Enjoy a seated lunch at the iconic Monument Inn Restaurant, known for its Gulf Coast seafood and sweeping views of the Houston Ship Channel. Vegetarian and gluten‑free options will be available.

4. Margaret McCormick Homesite (“Peggy’s Lake”)

A Quiet Landmark with a Deep Past

Located along Barbers Gully about a mile and a half from the Monument, Peggy’s Lake was once part of the homestead of Margaret McCormick. While the bus will not stop here due to road access, your guide will point out the location and share its significance in the 1836 landscape.

5. San Jacinto Monument & Museum Experience

  • A 30‑minute film recounting the events leading to the battle

  • Access to the museum gallery, featuring artifacts from the Texas Revolution

  • Exhibits exploring the Texian and Mexican armies, early settlers, and the political stakes of 1836

  • Access to monument’s observatory deck for panoramic views of the battleground, the Houston Ship Channel, and the surrounding terrain that shaped the conflict.

Battlefield Overview

Our guide will highlight the positions of the Mexican encampment and the Texian line of attack, explaining how terrain, timing, and strategy converged to produce the Texian victory.

Champagne Ride Home – 4:00 PM

As we depart the battleground, guests will enjoy champagne on the bus to toast San Jacinto Day and reflect on the journey.

5:00 PM – Return to The Heritage Society

The bus arrives back at Sam Houston Park. Guests may visit the Museum Gallery or browse the gift shop before departing.

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