Sidney Sherman Plaque

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Houston’s history stands the Sidney Sherman Plaque. It’s more than just a metal marker. It’s a whisper from the past, a tribute to a man who played a pivotal role in Texas’s fight for independence. The Sidney Sherman Plaque commemorates this Massachusetts-born general who led the left wing of the Texan army at the Battle of San Jacinto. Sidney Sherman’s journey to Texas began in 1835. He sold his successful cotton business in Kentucky, fueled by a passion for the Texan cause. With the proceeds, he outfitted a volunteer force of 52 men, bringing with them a crucial asset: the only flag the Texians had at San Jacinto. Imagine Sherman and his men, eager to engage the Mexican forces, arriving in Texas and racing to San Felipe for their orders. He was placed in command of Houston’s Second Regiment of the Texas Volunteers. During the Runaway Scrape, Sherman’s impatience to confront the Mexican Centralists was palpable. He even pleaded to engage the enemy at the Colorado River, but Sam Houston held him back. The day before the decisive Battle of San Jacinto, Sherman attempted a daring, albeit unsuccessful, maneuver to capture Santa Anna’s cannon. The Sidney Sherman Plaque reminds us of the pivotal role he played on April 21, 1836. Leading the left wing of the Texian army, he is credited with the rallying cry, “Remember the Alamo!”. His leadership and the bravery of his men contributed significantly to the Texan victory. After the battle, Sherman oversaw the distribution of captured supplies among the Texian soldiers. His contributions didn’t end with the war. He later rose to the rank of Major General of the Militia and, following Texas’s annexation to the United States, returned to his entrepreneurial roots. He managed a hotel in Galveston, a testament to his adaptable spirit. The Sidney Sherman Plaque stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to Texas. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices made and the courage displayed by those who fought for Texas’s independence.