Englishman and former drummer/vocalist for Genesis, Phil Collins donated more than 200 items from his personal collection of memorabilia from the Battle of the Alamo to a museum commemorating the epic scuffle recently. He will therefore become an "honorary Texan."
Collins went to San Antonio, Texas, yesterday, Oct. 28, the location of the storied 1836 battle, to give his artifacts to a museum currently being built, NME reported. The Phil Collins Alamo Collection will be on display in a temporary venue across from the Alamo until the permanent location is done.
Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson was on hand to receive the donation and thank Collins. Patterson went on to say that a measure will be introduced in January to the Texas Legislature to make the Middlesex, England, native an "honorary Texan."
"God bless you, Phil Collins," the enthused commissioner added.
According to Reuters, Collins became obsessed with the legendary battle fought during the Texas Revolution after watching 1955's Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier film starring Fess Parker as the title character.
"Why I didn't become as fascinated by something in English history, I'll never know," he said in June.
His impressive collection included a leather pouch that belonged to Crockett and the original Bowie knife that owner Jim Bowie used during the skirmish.
"When I got older and became successful, I decided to spend my money on original items from the Alamo rather than on Ferraris," the singer said.
Some of his items will remain at home because, as Collins noted, his 9-year-old son has become interested in the battle as well.
Last month, Collins said he is not ready to resume a full touring schedule. The singer will perform a few tunes at a benefit concert Dec. 6.
