Francita Alavez facts for kids

Francita Alvarez (born around 1816 – died around 1906) was a very brave woman known as the "Angel of Goliad." She earned this special name because she saved the lives of many Texas prisoners of war. These prisoners were captured during the Goliad massacre and at other places like Copano and Victoria, Texas. Francita helped them by talking to Mexican officials and convincing them to show kindness. Her husband, Captain Telesforo Alavez, was a Mexican officer during this time.

Who Was Francita Alvarez?

Francita Alvarez's exact birth date and hometown are not fully known. Historians believe she was born around 1816. Her name has also been written in different ways over time. Sometimes people called her Panchita, Francisca, or Pancheta. Her last name was also sometimes spelled Alevesco or Alvárez.

In 1836, during the exciting and challenging time of the Texas Revolution, Francita traveled to Texas. She journeyed with her husband, Captain Telesforo Alavez. They sailed from Matamoros, Mexico, to a port called El Cópano in Copano Bay, Texas.

A Heroine of the Texas Revolution

Francita Alvarez showed great courage and kindness during the Texas Revolution. She used her strong will and caring heart to help others.

Saving Lives at El Cópano

At El Cópano, Francita convinced important Mexican officials to treat the Texian prisoners with respect. When 80 soldiers, led by Major William Parsons Miller, were captured, she stepped in. She made sure the Mexican soldiers untied the men's hands. She also insisted that the prisoners be given food to eat. Her actions made a big difference for these captured soldiers.

Courage in Goliad

In La Bahia, which is now (Goliad), Francita continued her heroic efforts. Thanks to her help and the brave actions of Colonel Francisco Garay, 20 more men were saved. These men were kept safe because they were doctors, interpreters, or workers. Francita even went into the presidio (a fortified military post) the night before the terrible Goliad Massacre. She managed to bring several men out with her. She then hid them until after the tragic event had passed. She also made sure that the 80 men from Major Miller's group were not executed.

Helping in Victoria

Francita's kindness extended to Victoria as well. Her husband was in charge there. She made sure that 26 Texan builders and workers were set free. Because of her, these men were not executed and could go home.

Life After the Revolution

After the Mexican forces were defeated, Francita returned to Matamoros with Captain Alavez. Even in Matamoros, she continued to help Texian prisoners who were held there.

Later, Captain Alavez moved to Mexico City, and Francita went with him. However, their relationship eventually ended. Francita then left Mexico City and returned to Matamoros. She faced difficulties there, but Texians who remembered her kind acts became her friends. According to memoirs written in 1936 by Elena O'Shea, a schoolteacher, Francita Alavez eventually traveled back to Texas with her new friends. She then found work on the famous King Ranch.