1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15
Spokane will honor the 111th anniversary of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link's completion with a memorial plaque unveiling on September 15, 2025. The event will take place at 1 p. m. under the Monroe Street Bridge along the Centennial Trail. Sponsored by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the plaque recognizes the significance of the railroad link that connected Spokane to the west coast.
This 105-mile section revolutionized travel, decreasing journey times significantly and enhancing Spokane's role as a vital railroad hub. Robert E. Strahorn, a prominent advocate for Spokane's railroad development, was instrumental in attracting investment to the area. The unveiling ceremony will serve not only as a celebration of history but also as a reminder of the ongoing importance of transportation infrastructure in the region. The original completion of the railroad coincided with the opening of Spokane's Union Station, which provided essential passenger services.
Community leaders emphasize that the event will foster local pride and awareness of Spokane's rich railroad heritage.