Xarames facts for kids

The Xarames were a Native American group who lived in the area around San Antonio, Texas. They were very important in the early days of Mission San Antonio de Valero, which you might know better as "The Alamo."

Who Were the Xarames?

The Xarames were one of many Native American peoples living in what is now Texas long ago. They were part of the larger group of Coahuiltecan-speaking tribes. These groups lived by hunting, gathering plants, and fishing. They moved around to find food, following the seasons and animal migrations.

Their Home in Texas

The Xarames lived in the fertile lands near the San Antonio River. This area provided them with water, plants, and animals. It was a good place for them to live and thrive for many years. Their territory was important because it was where the Spanish later built missions.

Important People at The Alamo

When the Spanish arrived in Texas, they built missions to teach Native Americans about their religion and way of life. Mission San Antonio de Valero, later called The Alamo, was one of these missions. The Xarames were the main Native American group that lived at this mission in its early years.

• They helped build the mission.
• They learned new skills from the Spanish.
• They played a big role in the mission's daily life.

Their presence was key to the mission's early success. They helped shape the community that grew around the mission.

Life at the Mission

Life at the mission was different from their traditional way of living. The Xarames learned to farm and raise animals. They also learned Spanish and about the Catholic religion. The missions were meant to settle Native American groups in one place. This changed their nomadic lifestyle.

What Happened to the Xarames?

Over time, many Native American groups, including the Xarames, faced challenges. Diseases brought by Europeans greatly reduced their numbers. Many also blended into the new communities forming around the missions. They married people from other tribes or Spanish settlers. Eventually, the Xarames as a distinct group became less visible. Their history is an important part of the story of Texas and The Alamo.