Interstate Adventures

When you say “The Alamo” to anyone who grew up in the 80s, they think of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, not high school US history class.

In the movie Pee-wee Herman’s precious red bicycle was stolen and left in the basement of The Alamo. He went on a cross-country adventure to retrieve it. When Pee-wee finally arrived at the site, he had to endure a drawn-out guided tour only to learn at the end that The Alamo did not have a basement. 

Today, Pee-wee would find his bike at The Alamo. 

One of the stunt bikes used in the movie can be found in the Ralston Family Collections Center, a separate building on the site. This space houses 4,500 pieces representing the battle history of The Alamo. Along with portraits of people who fought for Texas in the 1836 battle, there are pictures of more recent famous visitors like June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash. 

Inside the center, there is a plaque that describes a significant donation from Phil Collins. As I read about the collection, I became confused. I thought this can’t be the same person as the accomplished musician. I quickly realized it was that Phil Collins. 

He has preserved early US history. His gift stems from a childhood fascination with  Davy Crockett which over time turned into a collection of more than 200 pieces that he offered to the people of Texas for display in 2014. 

The collection is more than relics. Phil Collins himself offers visitors an invitation to be curious. His involvement is notable, even if The Alamo itself is small and doesn’t even have a basement!