1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15

Spokane will celebrate the 111th anniversary of the golden spike event on September 15, 2025, with a community gathering at 1 p. m. along the Centennial Trail under the Monroe Street Bridge. Participants will place a commemorative plaque recognizing the historical significance of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link, which was completed on September 15, 1914. This link reduced travel time to the west coast and connected Spokane to a broader railroad system.

The plaque was obtained by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution with support from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. The event highlights Spokane's history as a vital railroad hub, underscored by the opening of Union Station on the same day in 1914. Union Station facilitated passenger services until its demolition for Expo ’74. Robert E.

Strahorn, a prominent advocate for railroad development in Spokane, played a crucial role in securing investment for the Ayer-Cutoff. This memorial gathering emphasizes the lasting impact of the railroad on Spokane's growth and connectivity.