Daughters of the Republic of Texas Relinquish Control Over The Alamo

AUSTIN - The State of Texas and Daughters of the Republic of Texas have agreed to turn over the management of The Alamo in San Antonio to another party. In 120 days, the Texas General Land Office intends to have a contractor in place to operate the shrine. The Daughters of the Republic of Texas have maintained The Alamo since 1891.

Thursday, George P. Bush, Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office (GLO), and Ellen McCaffrey, 44th President General of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT), released the following statements:

Commissioner George P. Bush:

"Without the early intervention of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, we would not be able to celebrate the Shrine of Texas Liberty today. The Daughters of the Republic of Texas will always have a special place of honor at the Alamo and have graciously worked with the GLO and the State of Texas in honoring and preserving the Alamo.

"The Alamo has always had the same owner - the people of Texas.   And so to meet the ever-increasing operational needs of the Alamo, the GLO has determined to change its day to day management from the DRT and move in a new direction.   Together we will create a bigger, brighter future for this Texas shrine."

DRT President General McCaffrey:

"Since 1891, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas have maintained a proud legacy of perpetuating the memory and spirit of the early pioneers who fought for and preserved the independence of Texas. It is this passion for our state's rich history that inspired our members in the early 1900's to recognize the importance of saving and preserving the Alamo for future generations.

"While we regret our changing role in its daily management, it does not diminish our unending passion for the preservation of the Shrine of Texas Liberty, and we look forward to maintaining our library collection as a historical resource for all Texans to enjoy."

For more than a century members of the DRT have lovingly cared for and maintained the Alamo. This decision does not represent the end of the DRT's devoted service to the Alamo, but instead marks a new chapter in their remarkable story of dedication to Texas History.  The Daughters of the Republic of Texas will continue to greatly honor and respect  the preservation of the Alamo so future generations can continue to visit the hallowed site and learn of those who gave everything so that we could be free.

The Alamo Endowment has been reconstituted as a major capital campaign to raise millions of dollars needed for an Alamo museum and visitor center worthy of Phil Collins' renowned collection of historic artifacts. The General Land Office is also creating a master plan to complement the city of San Antonio's ongoing planning efforts for Alamo Plaza.

There is an expected transition period of 120 days to new management. During the transition, the GLO will issue a request for proposal to develop a strategic plan and conduct a nationwide search for a new management company. For more information or to donate to the Alamo Endowment, please visit http://www.thealamo.org/endowment.