Benjamin Rush “Ben” Milam played a key role in the early stages of the Texas Revolution. Born in 1788 in Kentucky, Milam’s adventurous spirit and commitment to Texas independence made a significant impact on the fight for freedom. His leadership during key moments, especially the Siege of Bexar, highlighted his bravery and strategic thinking. Let’s explore the life and legacy of Ben Milam and see how his actions helped shape the future of Texas.
Early Life and Background
Benjamin Rush “Ben” Milam was born on October 20, 1788, in Frankfort, Kentucky. Growing up in the late 18th century, Milam was surrounded by the challenges and opportunities of frontier life, which helped shape his adventurous and resilient character.
Milam’s family played a significant role in his development. Raised in a household that valued hard work and perseverance, he learned the importance of determination and courage from an early age. These values would later guide him through his many ventures and military endeavors.
Before becoming a key figure in the Texas Revolution, Milam pursued various careers. During the War of 1812, he joined American forces, where he gained valuable military experience and a taste for adventure. After the war, Milam ventured into trade, transporting flour down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Although this endeavor did not yield the expected success, it marked the beginning of his extensive travels and further adventures.
Ventures into Trade and Early Travels
After his military service in the War of 1812, Ben Milam turned to trade as his next venture. He transported flour down the Mississippi River to New Orleans, seeking new opportunities in the bustling port city. However, the market conditions were not favorable, and this initial trading endeavor did not bring the success he had hoped for.
Undeterred by the challenges in New Orleans, Milam decided to broaden his horizons by venturing to South America. He and a friend took a schooner, hoping to find better trading prospects. Unfortunately, their journey was fraught with danger. A yellow fever outbreak claimed the lives of many on board, including the ship’s captain. Despite the dire circumstances, Milam managed to survive the ordeal, demonstrating his resilience and determination.
Upon his return to the United States, Milam’s adventurous spirit led him to Texas, where he began trading with the Comanche Indians along the Colorado River. This period was marked by significant cultural exchange and the establishment of valuable relationships. During this time, he also met David G. Burnet, who would become a close friend and ally.
Involvement in Mexican Independence Movement
In 1819, driven by his adventurous spirit and a desire to support revolutionary causes, Ben Milam joined an expedition in New Orleans aimed at aiding Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain. This expedition was part of a larger movement where many Americans saw the opportunity to support and possibly benefit from Mexico’s struggle for freedom.
During this period, Milam forged a close friendship with James Long, a prominent figure in the movement for Mexican independence. Their shared commitment to the cause strengthened their bond. However, their efforts faced significant challenges. In a twist of fate, Long was mysteriously killed in Mexico, a tragedy that deeply affected Milam. This event, coupled with the political tensions of the time, led to Milam’s brief imprisonment in 1822. Despite this setback, Milam’s resolve only grew stronger.
The death of James Long was a pivotal moment for Milam. It fueled his determination to continue the fight for independence, both in Mexico and later in Texas. The loss of his friend motivated Milam to seek justice and further involve himself in revolutionary activities.
Contributions to Texas Settlement and Early Revolution Efforts
After his experiences with the Mexican independence movement, Ben Milam collaborated with Arthur G. Wavell on a land grant project along the Red River in Texas. This endeavor aimed to establish settlements and promote development in the region. Despite their efforts, the project faced numerous challenges and ultimately did not succeed.
Milam’s work with Wavell and his previous experiences in Texas naturally led to his involvement in the growing unrest against Mexican rule. By the early 1830s, tensions between Texas settlers and the Mexican government were escalating. Milam became increasingly active in local affairs, aligning himself with the Texan cause for independence.
Throughout his time in Texas, Milam formed several key partnerships that would prove crucial to his efforts in the revolution. One of his most important allies was David G. Burnet, whom he had met while trading with the Comanche Indians. Burnet, who would later serve as interim President of the Republic of Texas, became a close friend and collaborator. Their shared vision for an independent Texas and their complementary skills and knowledge made them a formidable team in the fight against Mexican rule.
Role in the Texas Revolution
In 1835, as the call for Texan independence grew louder, Ben Milam answered by joining the Texan forces in the Goliad Campaign. This campaign aimed to capture the strategically important presidio at Goliad from Mexican control. Milam’s participation in this effort demonstrated his commitment to the cause and his readiness to fight for Texas’s freedom.
In 1835, as the call for Texan independence grew louder, Ben Milam answered by joining the Texan forces in the Goliad Campaign. This campaign aimed to capture the strategically important presidio at Goliad from Mexican control. Milam’s participation in this effort demonstrated his commitment to the cause and his readiness to fight for Texas’s freedom.
The Siege of Bexar and Milam’s Final Days
In the fall of 1835, the Texan forces laid siege to San Antonio de Bexar, a key strategic location held by Mexican troops under General Martín Perfecto de Cos. The siege was progressing slowly, with little headway being made. Ben Milam, frustrated by the lack of decisive action, took matters into his own hands. On December 5, 1835, he famously called for volunteers with his rallying cry, “Who will go with old Ben Milam into San Antonio?”
Milam’s impassioned plea inspired around 300 volunteers to join him in a bold attack on the city. Leading from the front, Milam and his men began intense house-to-house combat, systematically fighting their way through the city.
Tragically, Ben Milam’s courageous leadership came to an abrupt end on December 7, 1835. While moving between positions to coordinate his troops, Milam was struck by a rifle shot. The fatal bullet hit him in the head, killing him instantly.
Despite the devastating loss of their leader, the Texan volunteers were galvanized by Milam’s bravery and sacrifice. His actions during the siege had a profound effect on the morale and determination of the Texan fighters.
Conclusion
From his early years in Kentucky, through his ventures in trade and involvement in the Mexican independence movement, to his pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, Milam’s story is one of relentless pursuit of freedom and justice. His leadership during the Siege of Bexar, culminating in his tragic death, exemplifies his courage and determination. Milam’s legacy is immortalized in the places and monuments named in his honor, and his actions continue to inspire generations.
