Buena Vista Hotel
Theodore F. Koch Collection
Theodore F. Koch (1854-1940) was a land speculator and developer in Minnesota and Texas. In Texas, he purchased land near Beaumont and in southern Nueces County. Koch developed and promoted the land purchased in southern Nueces County and two townships were created: Riviera and Riviera Beach. Koch also established the small railroad that ran between the two communities. Unfortunately, drought and hurricanes caused many setbacks. As a result, the two communities never expanded. Ultimately, Theodore F. Koch was more successful with his fig ranch near Beaumont and his oil leases from property though out Texas. In addition to these materials are the Carl C. Henry Papers, 1908-1972. Henry was a sales representative/manager for Theodore F. Koch & Co. and relative of Mr. Koch. This collection includes correspondence, abstracts and titles, financial records, and maps associated with the Theodore F. Koch Company.