John A. Williams to the Political Chief of Nacogdoches.
Williams Reporting the Disturbances at Anahuac.
July 3, 1835.
Alcalde's Office
Sir,
The threats, of the people of Austin's Colony against the town of Anahuac,
have been carried into effect. On the 29th Ult. The sloop Ohio from Harrisburg
with two pieces of cannon, and about 50 men,armed with rifles, shotguns
&c under the command of William B. Travis,arrived in the port of Anahuac.
The cannon, men and military equipage were soon landed, and every preparation
making for action. Judge William Duncan,having been apprized of their intention
addressed a note to them, desiringto be informed of the causes which had
led to the measures they were taking,and directing them, at the same time,
in polite terms not to disturb the tranquility of this Municipality, which
was answered verbally, that Mr.Travis would give an answer in half an hour;
about double that time had elapsed and no answer came. Capt Tenorio suspecting
the object of the delay,marched out of Town, to a convenient grove of timber,
to shelter his menfrom the cannon. About half an hour afterwards, the answer
came, and a little in its rear came the enemy, and took possession of the
town. The answer amounted to a demand of a surrender of the public arms,
and disarming of the National troops. It was then nearly dark. In the course
of the night,some further correspondence took place between the parties.
and early nextmorning, the Mexicans surrendered and delivered up their
arms. Thus ends the second shameful attack and repulsion of the National
troops, that havebeen stationed at a Anahuac, for the enforcement of the
Revenue laws, and thus, a second time has the business of the Custom house
been broken up,.... Our Municipality is in a dreadful condition, the late
outrage at Anahuachas stimulated the malecontents, several of the Townsmen
joined Travis,took up arms &c. I consider the civil officers here,
as totally powerless,although they have done every thing in their power
to avoid the late disturbances.The authorities of San Felipe are raising
troops to capture San Antonio, and rescue the Governour &c. &c.
also making arraingement to form treaties with the Indians. This I learn
by official documents, addressed to the Ayuntamiento of Liberty. All of
which I communicate to you, for your intelligence.
God and Liberty Liberty
July 3rd 1835
Jno. A. Williams To the Political Chief Department of Nacogdoches
A true copy for the Mexican Consul—
