Frederick Bird Smith Cocke Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frederick Bird Smith Cocke Jr.
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| Texas State Representative from District 98 (Blanco, Comal, Gillespie, and Hays Counties) | |
| In office January 10, 1899 – January 8, 1901 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | November 17, 1839 |
| Died | September 7, 1912 (aged 72) |
| Resting place | Hays County, Texas |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Mary A. Eliza Carpenter |
| Children | Birdie |
| Residences | Buda, Hays County, Texas |
| Occupation | Attorney |
Frederick Bird Smith "Fred" Cocke Jr. (born November 17, 1839 – died September 7, 1912) was an important person in Texas history. He was the son of F.B.S. Cocke Sr. and Eliza M. Rogers. Fred Cocke Jr. had a career as a lawyer and later became a politician.
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Fred Cocke's Early Life and War Service
Fred Cocke Jr. was born in 1839. When he was older, he joined the military. During the American Civil War, he was a Captain. He led a group called Cocke's Company. This group was part of a larger cavalry unit.
His company served along the Rio Grande border. They even took part in the very last battle of the Civil War. This battle was called the Battle of Palmito Ranch.
A Career in Law and Politics
After the Civil War ended, Fred Cocke Jr. became active in politics. He joined the Democratic Party. He worked as a lawyer for the county and district in Bexar County. He handled many important legal cases there.
Later, he was elected to the Texas Legislature. This means he became a representative for his area. He served in the 26th Texas Legislature starting in 1899.
Helping Start a University
One of Fred Cocke Jr.'s most notable actions was in 1899. He helped create a new school. He sponsored the bill that started Southwest Texas State Normal School. This school was built in San Marcos.
Today, that school is known as Texas State University. It is a large and well-known university. Fred Cocke Jr. played a key role in its beginning.
Later Life
Fred Cocke Jr. passed away in 1912. He was buried in the Cocke family cemetery. This cemetery is located in Hays County, Texas. His work helped shape education and law in Texas.
