Colonel David Stern Crockett was a celebrated 19th-century American folk hero, frontiersman, soldier and politician. He represented Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives, served in the Texas Revolution, and died at the age of 49 at the Battle of the Alamo. Crockett's early years were filled with adventure, hardship, and traveling. Shortly after being sent to school, he ran away from home. He did not return until his 16th birthday. Crockett was twice elected to the United States House of Representatives. In 1835, Crockett left Tennessee for Texas. When William B. Travis, commander in charge at the siege at the Alamo, appealed for help against the Mexican forces, Crockett responded. The Texians were far outnumbered by the Mexican army, but Travis and his brave men refused to surrender. Crockett died a hero's death in the Alamo, but the legends about his skills as an outdoorsman, a maverick statesman and a warrior continued to grow. Today, Davy Crockett is considered an integral part of the American folklore, and all the stories and legends spring from the life of this real man.