Helena in Lewis and Clark County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)

Koch House

Helena South-Central Historic District

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, July 16, 2021

1. Koch House Marker

Inscription. A small rectangular gabled dwelling built against a one-room log cabin stood on this spacious corner in the 1870s. The property had changed hands several times when Austrian immigrant Franz Koch, a bookbindery foreman, purchased it in the late 1880s. His German wife, Meta, was a skilled seamstress who ran a dressmaking business from the home. Such “cottage industries” were common in this closeknit neighborhood, where German was a primary language. Both Meta and Franz were talented actors who delighted audiences at the Ming Opera House. By 1895, additions incorporating the original log structure gave the home its present floorplan, and the entrance shifted from Davis to State (formerly Bridge) Street. The Koch family planted lasting roots in the neighborhood, which has since nurtured four generations of descendants. The home remains in the family today, a tribute to Helena’s immigrant settlers who helped shape the early community.

Erected by Montana Historical Society.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Notable Buildings • Settlements & Settlers.

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In addition, it is included in the Montana National Register Sign Program series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1895.

Location. 46° 34.948′ N, 112° 2.169′ W. Marker is in Helena, Montana, in Lewis and Clark County. It is on State Street near South Davis Street when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 426 State Street, Helena MT 59601, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in andspecifically entral Montana in Gold West Country. It is also in the American Mountain West

and in the Lewis & Clark Corridor.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Rocky Mountains,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once Rupert’s Land

and also the Louisiana Purchase.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: English House (within shouting distance of this marker); 221 Spencer Street (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Helena South-Central Historic District (about 300 feet away); Joseph K. Toole House (about 300 feet away); 229 Spencer

Koch House and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, July 16, 2021

2. Koch House and Marker

(about 300 feet away); Ingram House (about 400 feet away); Henry Blase House (about 600 feet away); 17-19 South Rodney Street (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Helena.

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, July 16, 2021

3. Koch House

Credits. This page was last revised on December 12, 2021. It was originally submitted on December 12, 2021, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 302 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 12, 2021, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.