Battle of Concepción

The Battle of Concepción: A Turning Point in the Texas Revolution

Imagine a pivotal moment in history, where the fate of an entire region hung in the balance. That’s exactly what happened on October 28, 1835, during the Battle of Concepción. This engagement was not just any skirmish; it marked the beginning of the Texas Revolution and set the stage for future battles that would shape the destiny of a nation.

Now, let’s step back in time. On October 13, Stephen F. Austin, known as the “Father of Texas,” had just formed his newly created Texian Army. His goal was clear: to march towards Bexar and challenge General Martín Perfecto de Cos and his Mexican forces. But how did they choose their battleground? And what happened next?

The Strategic Move

On October 27, Austin sent two key figures, James Bowie and James Fannin, to scout for a defensible site near Bexar. After careful consideration, they chose the area around Mission Concepción, which offered natural cover in the form of a horseshoe-shaped gully. This decision proved crucial as it allowed them to set up camp and prepare for an impending attack.

The Mexican Counterattack

Colonel Domingo Ugartechea was dispatched by General Cos with 275 soldiers and two cannons to take down the Texian forces at Concepción. The Mexicans faced a challenging terrain, delayed by heavy fog that lasted until 8:00 a.m. on October 28. When the fog finally lifted, they found themselves facing a well-prepared Texian army.

As the Mexican soldiers approached, Colonel Ugartechea ordered his troops to form a line and advance. But the Texians were ready. They took cover in their gully, firing from its edge before reloading. The battle was intense; Bowie shouted to his men, “Keep under cover, boys, and reserve your fire; we haven’t a man to spare!”

The Battle Intensifies

At 300 yards (270 m) from the Texian position, the Mexican infantry halted and formed a line with their cannon in the middle. They began firing, but their volleys passed over the heads of the Texians, causing grapeshot to rain down on them. When the Mexican officers ordered a charge, Bowie sent his men to help. The Texians quickly captured the cannon and turned it on the fleeing Mexican soldiers.

The battle was short-lived, lasting only 30 minutes. Despite their superior numbers, the Mexicans were outmaneuvered by the clever tactics of the Texian forces. By the end of the engagement, the Mexican cavalry approached to retrieve wounded men and the cannon, but they faced a determined charge from Bowie’s troops.

The Aftermath

Historians estimate that between 14 and 76 Mexican soldiers were killed, while only one Texian soldier died. The battle was a significant victory for the Texians, attributed to “able leadership, a strong position, and greater firepower.” The Mexican cavalry struggled in the wooded, riverbottom terrain, and their weapons had a much lower range than those of the Texians.

That evening, Austin allowed local priests and men from Bexar to retrieve the bodies of the Mexican soldiers who had died. Barr estimated that at least 14 Mexican soldiers were killed, with an additional 39 wounded, several of whom died later.

The Legacy of Concepción

While the exact site of the battle remains uncertain, historical researchers have found musket balls and other artifacts in the area. The Battle of Concepción was the last offensive against the Texians that Cos would order. This victory marked a turning point, boosting morale among the Texian forces and setting the stage for future battles.

So, as we reflect on this pivotal moment in history, it’s clear that the Battle of Concepción was more than just a skirmish; it was a battle that changed the course of Texas’ destiny. The lessons learned from this engagement would shape the strategies and tactics used by both sides in the years to come.

The Battle of Concepción stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of those who fought for their freedom. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even in the face of overwhelming odds, one can emerge victorious through strategic planning and unwavering resolve.