The Neill-Cochran Museum House depicts the history of Austin through the lives of several prominent Austin citizens who lived in the house from the mid-19th through early 20th centuries. Through the changes in styles, furnishings, household items, and art, we can follow the changes in Austin's economy and politics. The house, built in the Greek Revival style, was constructed in 1855 for young land surveyor Washington Hill and his family on 18 acres of land located northwest of Austin.
After Hills, the Texas Asylum for the Blind occupied the house, followed by the Lieutenant Governor of Texas Fletcher Stockdale and the Federal Army under George Custer. When the Neill family bought the house in 1876, they furnished it with high quality walnut furniture. Lawyer Thomas and his wife Bessie Cochran first rented the house, later buying it in 1895. Four generations of Cochrans lived in the house, witnessing huge social changes in the country that left significant imprints. The family sold the house in 1958 to the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Texas, who opened it to the public.
2310 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705, Phone: 512-478-2335