Second Flying Company of San Carlos de Parras facts for kids

Painting of three soldiers in the Second Flying Company of San Carlos de Parras

The Second Flying Company of San Carlos de Parras was a special group of soldiers. They were also known as the Álamo de Parras Company. These soldiers were from a place called San José y Santiago del Álamo in what is now Coahuila, Mexico. They were like mounted police or border patrol for the Spanish government.

In 1803, these soldiers took control of a building called the San Antonio de Valero Mission. Many people believe this is why the mission later became known as "the Alamo."

What Was a Flying Company?

The Spanish name for this type of group was compañía volante. This means "flying company." They were called this because they could move very quickly.

Soldiers on Horseback

• These soldiers were mostly cavalry. This means they rode horses.
• They were also militiamen. This means they were regular citizens who could be called upon to serve as soldiers when needed.
• They were active during the time when Spain ruled a large area called the Viceroyalty of New Spain. This area included much of what is now Mexico and parts of the United States, like Texas.
• The company helped the Spanish government control the area known as Tejas, which we now call Texas.
• During their time at the mission, a military hospital was set up there.
• The mission building was also made stronger. It became a military fort.

Key Events and Battles

The Second Flying Company of San Carlos de Parras was involved in important events in Texas history.

Surrender at the Mission

• In 1813, the company had to give up control of the mission.
• This happened during a conflict called the Magee-Gutiérrez Expedition.
• The leader of the company, Vizente Tarin, left the group.
• He joined a group called the Tejano federalists.
• These federalists wanted local governments to have more power.
• They were fighting for independence from the main government.
• Vizente Tarin fought in a big battle called the Battle of Medina.

A Son's Legacy

• Vizente Tarin's son was named Manuel Antonio Santiago Tarín.
• Years later, Manuel joined a Tejano company led by Juan Seguín.
• He fought in the famous Battle of San Jacinto. This battle was very important for Texas independence.

Building Fort Tenoxtitlán

• In 1830, the company was led by José Francisco Ruiz.
• Under his command, they built a fort called Fort Tenoxtitlán.
• This fort was located in what is now Burleson County, Texas.

Siege of Béxar

• The Álamo de Parras Company also helped other soldiers.
• They served as extra support for General Martín Perfecto de Cos.
• This happened during the Siege of Béxar.
• The Siege of Béxar was an important event before the main Texas Revolution.