The Heritage Association of San Marcos, Inc. invites the community and city leaders to recognize the historical and architectural significance of the Charles S. Cock House Museum, one of San Marcos’ most treasured and enduring landmarks.
The Charles S. Cock House, erected in 1867 and located at 400 East Hopkins Street, is the oldest remaining residential building in San Marcos and the only stone residential structure in the Greek Revival style left in the city. The home was built by Charles Stephen Cock, a pioneer settler and former mayor of San Marcos, using native limestone with twofoot- thick walls, along with pine, elm, and cedar. Designed to accommodate his growing family, the home included multiple rooms and featured fireplaces in both the parlor and main bedroom.
Charles S. Cock purchased the property along the banks of the San Marcos River in 1867 and promptly constructed the residence. In 1871, he deeded the home to his daughter, Cecilia, who later sold it back to her father in 1884. Charles and his wife, Susana, lived in the home until his death in 1897.
Beyond his family home, Charles S. Cock played a central role in the development of San Marcos. He served as the city’s second mayor from 1881 to 1883 and held numerous public offices, including County Commissioner (1865–1866), County Clerk (1867), County Treasurer, and Justice of the Peace (1885–1888). Cock oversaw the construction of many early roads and contributed to efforts that brought the railroad to San Marcos, shaping the city’s early growth.
Charles and Susana Cock moved to Texas from Water Valley, Mississippi, first settling in Bastrop before relocating to the San Marcos area. They established a large and productive farm near the Blanco River before moving into the East Hopkins Street home with their twin daughters, Cecilia and Civilia, and sons William, Charles, and Louis. Many members of the Cock family are interred in the San Marcos Cemetery.
The Heritage Association of San Marcos, Inc. is a nonprofit organization chartered in 1975 to support the preservation of historic buildings, sites, and archives, while perpetuating traditions that beautify and enrich community life. The Association grew out of the San Marcos Bicentennial Commission, formed in 1972 to plan and coordinate the city’s celebration of the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976. San Marcos was one of the first seven cities in the nation to receive the National Bicentennial City designation.
A primary goal of the Bicentennial Commission was the restoration of the Charles S. Cock House. That same year, the home was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Commission initiated a comprehensive restoration project. Completed in 1976, the house reopened for tours and receptions, ensuring its preservation for future generations. One hundred years after its construction, the home also received a Texas Historical Marker medallion and is recognized today as an Official Texas Historic Landmark.
Today, the Charles S. Cock House operates as a museum and is managed by the Heritage Association Guild. The historic home is open for reservations and available for a variety of small to moderate-sized events, including meetings, receptions, luncheons, private gatherings, and cultural programs.
In addition, the Heritage Association of San Marcos continues a long-standing tradition begun in April 1976: the Cottage Kitchen Luncheons, now held on the first Thursday of each month at the Charles S. Cock House. These luncheons provide guests with the opportunity to enjoy a meal in a unique historic setting while supporting local preservation efforts.
The Heritage Association of San Marcos welcomes visitors to the Charles S. Cock House Museum by attending its monthly Cottage Kitchen luncheons and considering the historic home for future events. Through preservation, education, and community engagement, HASM remains dedicated to honoring San Marcos’ past while enriching its present and future.
For information on the Heritage Association of San Marcos, Charles S. Cock House Museum reservations, Cottage Kitchen luncheons and membership, please visit heritagesanmarcos. org.
