Spokane: 1914 "Golden Spike" Marker Placed Monday, September 15

Spokane, Wash. ~ Spokane, Wash. - On September 15, 1914, a momentous event took place in the city of Spokane as railroad executives from around the United States gathered on a newly constructed trestle to celebrate the completion of a critical railroad link. This link, known as the Ayer-Cutoff, connected Spokane to the southwest and shortened travel time to the west coast by multiple hours. To commemorate this achievement, a golden spike was pounded into the final railroad tie.

Now, 111 years later, on Monday September 15, community members will gather once again to honor this historic event. A marker will be placed near the site of the golden spike ceremony under the Monroe Street Bridge in Kendall Yards at 1 p.m.

The marker was obtained by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) through a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. It is being placed in cooperation with the Spokane Historic Preservation Office on City of Spokane Parks & Recreation-managed public land.

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The golden spike ceremony not only marked an important milestone in Spokane's history but also had a significant impact on its development as a city. The completion of the Ayer-Cutoff connected Spokane with a vast system of railroads that were previously inaccessible to Spokanites.

On that same day in 1914, another significant event took place as Spokane's Union Station train depot opened its doors for passenger services. Located at the corner of Spokane Falls Boulevard and Stevens Street near what is now known as Big Red Wagon Park, Union Station played an important role in connecting people to other parts of the country.

Unfortunately, Union Station was demolished to make way for Expo '74. However, its legacy lives on through this marker and serves as a reminder of Spokane's past as a crucial railroad hub in the American West.

One man who played a pivotal role in securing massive investments in Spokane and promoting its growth as a railroad hub was Robert E. Strahorn. As a resident of Browne's Addition, Strahorn championed the development of the Ayer-Cutoff and helped solidify Spokane's status as a key player in the railroad industry.

As we gather to honor this historic achievement, let us also remember the individuals who played a crucial role in shaping Spokane into the city it is today. The placement of this marker serves as a testament to their hard work and dedication.

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