[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 163 (Friday, October 3, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E925]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE CITY OF GONZALES BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. MICHAEL CLOUD

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 3, 2025

  Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the historic City of 
Gonzales, Texas, as it celebrates 200 years since its founding in 1825. 
Named by James Kerr after Governor Rafael Gonzales of Coahuila and 
Texas, this settlement was briefly abandoned and later rediscovered in 
1832 by Byrd Lockhart and has grown into a cornerstone of Texas' 
enduring history.
  Gonzales is renowned as the birthplace of the Texas Revolution, where 
the defiant ``Come and Take It'' rally cry first echoed. When Mexican 
soldiers were sent to retrieve a cannon from the small settlement, a 
small cohort of men successfully resisted in what is now called the 
Battle of Gonzales. This heroic stand showcased the unyielding courage 
and determination of its people--qualities that continue to define the 
city today. It was this cannon that fired the first shot for Texas' 
Independence, and today, because of it, the city stands as one of the 
oldest settlements across the entire state.
  Just years later, when William Travis sent out a plea for 
reinforcements at the Alamo, 32 men from Gonzales were the only ones to 
answer the call. All of these men lost their lives and today are 
honored as the ``Immortal 32'' for their heroism in fighting for 
freedom and to overthrow an oppressive government.
  After the Texas Revolution, Gonzales would rebuild and later become 
an agricultural hub, reflecting the sacrifices and hardships of Texans 
on the frontier. Thanks to cattle ranching and this agricultural 
production, Gonzales helped spur the growth of the larger Texas 
economy.
  The story of Gonzales is one of courage and resilience in the face of 
hardship and toil. Today, the town continues to embrace its rich 
history and maintains the Texas spirit through its museums, historical 
sites, and traditional celebrations. As we mark this historic 
milestone, I congratulate the city of Gonzales on its bicentennial and 
honor the enduring legacy of resilience and strength that it 
represents. Representing this city and its people in Congress is a 
great honor and privilege.

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