Tour Gonzales will help you explore the community that is home to the site of the firing of the first shot for Texas Independence and the “Come and Take It” challenge.
“Come and Take It” is an icon of rich Texas history. Born out of a battle over a small cannon where eighteen brave residents of Gonzales dared Santa Anna’s Army to “Come and Take It,” it exemplifies the spirit of today’s Gonzales.
The 49 original blocks and seven public squares laid out in the shape of a Greek cross withstood the test of time and form the first Texas History Museum District. Within the district you will find museums, historic homes, historic markers, including the first historic marker in Texas, and a thriving downtown with turn of the century architecture. In the Memorial Museum you can see the actual cannon that started it all, as well as documents signed by the fathers of Texas. Stop by the Eggleston house and see how life was in the Republic of Texas during the time before the revolution. If the Historic District is not what you are in the mood for, try the nine-hole golf course located along the banks of the Guadalupe River. There are also thousands of acres of parks, a professional disc golf course, and of plenty of kayaking, canoeing and swimming opportunities on the Guadalupe River. If you are into rodeo you will want to catch the action at JB Wells Arena. From Junior High Rodeos to PBR events there is always something happening. The GPS based Tour Gonzales app will guide you through whatever aspect of the community you want to explore. You will also find information about the many hotels, historic bed and breakfasts, inns and guest cottages. Catch the “Come and Take It” sprit in Gonzales. Before the Alamo and Davy Crockett, before San Jacinto and freedom, the “Come and Take It” challenge was issued. Today we offer the same challenge. Come and take a tour. See the museums, historic homes and the history. “Come and Take It,” when you do you’ll never let it go.
