Life of Susanna Dickinson to be remembered at Texana Church

   The life of Susanna Dickinson, survivor of the Alamo, is to be presented in song and story by songwriter Fletcher Clark and author/historian Donaly Brice.  They will bring to life this unheralded Texas heroine in a program entitled “Songs of Susanna” on February 26, 2016 in the historic Texana Church, 284 Brackenridge Parkway, at 7 pm.

   This musical program will follow Susanna in her travels from Tennessee to Gonzales, Texas with her husband Almeron Dickinson, who would become a fallen hero at the Alamo.  Susanna and daughter Angelina were among the people who lived in the old Spanish mission during the 13 day siege.  When the guns and cannons fell silent, only a few remained alive, but Susanna and her daughter lived.  Santa Anna ultimately had her take a capitulation message to Sam Houston whose Texian army was camped in the Gonzales area.  The Texians later routed Santa Anna’s army at San Jacinto.

   Susanna Dickinson’s life, however, was more of a footnote in the pages of history except for those individuals such as Brice and Clark who won’t let it fade from memory.  The music and stories relate Susanna’s life after the death of her first husband and marrying her fifth.  Widowed, penniless and illiterate, she sought security and happiness.  The author Brice feels “It wasn’t easy being a woman in Texas during that time…. She led a very courageous life.”  Eventually, Susanna would become prosperous and respected.

   Concerning the “Song of Susanna” presentation, author/historian Chuck Parsons stated “Once experienced, this program of song and history will not be forgotten.  It gives new life to our understanding of our Texas heritage.”

   Tickets are $10 presale and $15 at the door for this special February 26 event sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Commission.  To purchase tickets contact Jackson County Chamber of Commerce Agriculture, 361-782-7146, Peggy Condron, 361-782-6733, Bertha Dell McDowell,361- 782-2262, Sue Clark, 361-782-2176, Janette Stafford, 782-2204 or LuraFaye Motley 361-782-1805