Charles Lewis Cocke born at Edgehill in King William County, attended Virginia Baptist Seminary (now University of Richmond) from 1836 to 1838. Attended Columbian College in Washington, D.C. (now George Washington University) for 2 years, graduating in 1840. Returned to Richmond College to teach mathematics and married Susanna Virginia Pleasants the same year. They had nine children. He was asked by the Board of Trustees to head Valley Union Seminary (now Hollins University) and assumed the position of superintendent in 1846. Cocke remained in that position for the rest of his life, until 1901. Although Hollins was established in 1842, Cocke is considered the founder because he was able to make the school successful. He was active in the Valley Baptist and Virginia Baptist Associations and was a frequent lecturer and guest minister. Cocke was also an advocate for local African American congregations within the Baptist denomination. In addition to Hollins, Charles Lewis Cocke helped to established Alleghany College in Blue Sulpher Springs, Virginia.
From the description of Charles Lewis Cocke papers, 1839-1901. (Hollins University). WorldCat record id: 63543869
