"Battle of Rio San Gabriel"
Soldados & Californios:On January 8, 1847, 450 mounted Californio
lancers met a force of 600 U.S. sailors, marines and dismounted
dragoons at the Rio San Gabriel (now the Rio Hondo River) just east
of the Pueblo de Los Angeles in Alta California. After brave charges
by the Californios under Andreas Pico and Gen. Flores, the
Californios could not penetrate the Infantry squares or musket &
artillery fire and withdrew.
A second battle, the next day: The "Battle of La Mesa" in
present day Vernon, just south of downtown Los Angeles, was even more
intense, as a final 3rd charge by the lancers almost competely
enveloped the square as volleys from the close order muskets and
artillery fire reinforced the hedge of bayonets.
Mexican historians have called these final battles in Alta
California, the Californios finest hour and a true tribute to the
defense of their native land.
Join us on September 20 & 21, 2003 in the very 1st Reenactment of the
"Battle of Rio San Gabriel". Relive the most pivotal event
in California history. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 2 battles daily at
11:00 am and 2:30 pm. Mounted Californios are needed. If you need a
horse, Tony Delgadillo will be able to answer any questions about any
possible arrangements. More details wil be forthcoming later.
Sponsored by the City of Pico Rivera, and many local historical
groups, such as the California Mexican-War Association, and others.
This event will coincide with the Re-opening of the Pio Pico Mansion
nearby.
Location: Paramount Blvd. & Loch Lomond Rd. in Pico Rivera, CA. Near
the battle monument. Call Tony Delgadillo at: (323) 722-9937 or chaplain1863@netzero.com
or
Jon Reed at (562) 505-0985 or Jreed26644@aol.com
Freeway Map to Pico Rivera
Location: Paramount Blvd. & Loch Lomond Rd. in Pico Rivera, CA. Near
the battle monument.