  1820 February 21 Charles L. Cocke was born at Edgehill, King William County, Va. 1836 He entered Richmond College. 1838 He entered Columbian College at Washington, D. C. 1840 Graduated from Columbian College, and accepted a position at Richmond College. 1840 On December 31 married Susanna Virginia Pleasants, of Henrico County. 1840-1846 Connected with Richmond College. 1845 Called to take charge of "Valley Union Seminary," a co-educational school, Roanoke County, Va., at Botetourt Springs. 1846 June 23 arrived at Botetourt Springs to take charge of the school. 1846 July 1 the first session under Mr. Cocke's superintendence opened with 36 boys and 27 girls. 1852 Board of Trustees discontinued the department for boys. 1852 July 20 the session 1852-'53 opened for girls only, under the name The Female Seminary at Botetourt Springs, Va., Mr. Cocke, Principal, Registration 81 girls. 1853 September 4 the session of 1853-'54 opened with increased faculty and registration of 150 girls. 1855 Mr. and Mrs. John Hollins of Lynchburg, Va., donated funds to the institution, and in their Honor the name was changed to Hollins Institute. 1855-'61 Average attendance 106. 1861-'65 Doors not closed during this period. Average attendance 134. 1865-'71 Average attendance 73. 1871-1900 Buildings, enlarged to accommodate 225 students. 1901 May 4 Charles L. Cocke died. |
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