AACA Central Divisional Tour
October 18-22, 2025
The Runaway Scrape Tour
This is an immersive four-day progressive tour, tracing the early Texian Army and settlers as they flee Mexico’s dictator – General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna after the fall of the Alamo. Outnumbering the Texians almost 4 to 1, Santa Anna’s goal is to crush the Texian rebellion, eliminate the resistance, and end Anglo immigration.
As a participant on this tour, you’ll learn about the socioeconomic polices driving Santa Anna and why the Texians and Tejanos decide to stand and fight against enormous odds instead of fleeing to Louisiana seeking protection from The United States. Furthermore, you’ll understand the impact of one victorious battle upon the future of Texas the Republic, and The United States. Plus, you’ll gain insight to why Texians are so proud of their State.
Historical Background
To encourage the settlement of Tejas in the 1820’s, Spain (and later Mexico) encouraged foreign immigration through a series of land grants. As Anglo immigrants arrived in increasingly greater numbers, the Mexican government moved to stem the flow, angering both native and immigrant Texians and leading to conflict. After the fall of The Alamo, Mexican General (and President) Santa Ana ordered the execution of Texian forces surrendered at Goliad, causing widespread panic. Led by Sam Houston, the remaining Texian forces and settlers fled eastward with Santa Ana in hot pursuit. Seeing an opportunity at San Jacinto (east of Houston), the outnumbered Texians defeated the Mexican forces and captured Santa Ana, thus ending the war and granting Texas’ independence.
The format of a progressive tour enhances the feeling of the participants that they are indeed part of ‘The Runaway Scrape’ and reliving history, chased by an imaginary enemy.
Itinerary
Welcome to San Antonio
Pre-tour arrival to San Antonio is highly encouraged, familiarizing with places of interest relating to early Tejas such as the Governor’s Palace, Navarro House, and The Alamo Exhibit all within walking distance from our host hotel, The Menger.
Saturday, October 18
Check-In to The Menger Hotel
Check-in at The Menger Hotel, which is across the street from The Alamo in downtown San Antonio. There will be an evening reception in the courtyard with heavy hor d’oerves and cash bar.
Please be sure you see The Alamo Exhibit (OYO) and the Alamo Chapel (free).
Day One: Sunday, October 19
San Antonio to Gonzales
The tour starts at The Alamo, and after check-out, we then flee eastward over the Cibolo Crossing for a rest in Seguin. After lunch, the flee continues to the “Come and Take It” cannon battle site before arriving at our dinner and overnight stop in Gonzales. (71 miles)
Day Two: Monday, October 20
Gonzales to Brenham
We start at the Gonzales Memorial Museum, to see the original “Come and Take It” cannon and pay respects to the Immortal Thirty-Two. We again flee eastward to gather at the oak tree where Sam Houston rallied the Texians after the massacre at Goliad. Proceeding on to Shiner, we stop at the brewery for a BBQ lunch and optional brewery tour before continuing to San Felipe (Stephen Austin colony) to visit the museum & settlement remains. We hustle northward to overnight in Brenham. (105 miles)
Day Three: Tuesday, October 21
Brenham to New Caney
Our first stop is the Blue Bell Creamery before proceeding on to Washington-on-the-Brazos where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed. Explore the grounds, Texas Star Museum (currently closed for rennovations), and Independence Hall. After a catered lunch, we continue fleeing to our overnight hotel in New Caney for much needed respite. (81 miles)
Day Four: Wednesday, October 22
New Caney to San Jacinto
Heading south from New Caney, we take the Lynchburg Ferry (where the Texians crossed) to San Jacinto, where we explore the battlefield, watch the movie “Texas Forever” and tour the monument museum before an early afternoon closing banquet at the nearby Monument Inn. After the banquet, participants can depart for home or proceed on to the Central Fall National Meet in Galveston, approximately 1 hour away (the meet check-in starts the next day). (47 miles)
Tour Director: Kip Lankenau
Email: Kip@kipmotor.com
Phone: (972) 243-0440 wk or (214) 498-0531 cell
Registrar: Tammy Keith
Email: AACATxDFW1@gmail.com
(469) 338-6358
