Graves of Alamo's Tailed Defenders (8 photos)

Two small tombstones commemorate the furry defenders of the Alamo.





The Battle of the Alamo is the most famous battle of the Texas War of Independence. It lasted from February 23 to March 6, 1836. After the rebel army of Texan settlers and adventurers drove all Mexican troops out of Mexican Texas, the Mexican president led an invasion, seeking to regain control of the territory. As a result, the city was destroyed, and only two of the Texan garrison remained alive.



Not all Alamo defenders wielded swords and muskets during battles throughout history. In recent years, some felines have used their claws and fangs to protect their land from rodents.





A still from the 2004 film "The Alamo"

There's a lot to see at the Alamo Mission, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its picturesque chapel, weapons from the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, and original maps and letters, it's easy to miss one of the site's smaller attractions. So be sure to check out the chapel's backyard, where a pair of cat tombstones are located.



Ruby and CC were two stray cats who found refuge at the Alamo. Ruby arrived in 1981 and passed away in 1986. CC took over in 1996 and passed away in 2014. Over the years, both cats were lavished with love and care by the staff and quickly became beloved residents. A children's book was written about Ruby. CC was bilingual and understood both English and Spanish.



Alamo caretakers are happy to show the graves and provide any information about them. Currently, a new cat named Bella has appeared in the city, taking the place of Ruby and CC. The furry guardian not only followed in the footsteps of her predecessors in terms of protecting the complex from mice, but also "runs" her own page on social networks.