Abner Hugh Cook

(Mar. 20, 1814 - Feb. 21, 1884) A native of North Carolina, Abner Cook came to the newly created capital city of Austin in 1839 with a skill in design and construction that soon earned him the title of master builder. Working as architect, engineer, and contractor, Cook produced some of the finest public buildings and Greek Revival homes in Texas, including the Governor's Mansion and the Neill-Cochran House (2310 San Gabriel, Austin). A charter member of Austin's First Presbyterian Church, Abner Cook died soon after completing work on the Old Main building (now razed) on the University of Texas campus. (1985)