Bobcat Bucket List #82

Bobcat Bucket List #82: Tour San Marcos’ Historic Homes

San Marcos is lucky to have many neighborhoods that are rich in historic value and a community that is committed to maintaining the city’s heritage. San Marcos has seven designated historic districts aimed at encouraging the appreciation and preservation of the local observable history. These districts contain Victorian, Classical Revival, and Craftsman architecture along with houses that were built in the 1940’s following World War Two. 

The Belvin Street Historic District was the first area placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of Interior. The homes in this district were built as early as the 1880’s and had residents who were stockmen, farmers, and town leaders. Many people settled in this area because it was close to the Colonial Institute, a renowned Pioneer School that was in use from 1866 to 1918.

Just a few blocks away on 400 East Hopkins Street is the longest standing residential house in San Marcos. It is a stone house in the Greek Revival style and is the only one of it’s kind in San Marcos. This historic home is now known as the Charles S. Cock Museum. Charles S. Cock was the second mayor of San Marcos and built the home in 1867 where he lived with his wife and five children. 

The home was eventually abandoned before it was bought by the City of San Marcos. It was the first property in town to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places and an official Texas Landmark. Now open to the public, the home is available to tour and rent as a venue.

If you want to experience the history of San Marcos consider supporting the Heritage Association of San Marcos - Home (heritagesanmarcos.org) to participate in tours and events.