1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15

Spokane will commemorate the 111th anniversary of the golden spike on September 15, 2025, marking the completion of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link that revolutionized travel to the west coast. The ceremony will occur at 1 p. m. along the Centennial Trail under the Monroe Street Bridge, where community members will place a memorial plaque. This plaque, obtained by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, is made possible through a grant from the William G.

Pomeroy Foundation. The Ayer-Cutoff, a 105-mile railroad section, transformed Spokane into a crucial transportation hub in the American West. Robert E. Strahorn championed this development, securing significant investments in the region. The event not only honors a pivotal historical moment but also reflects on the lasting influence of the railroad on Spokane's growth.

Spokane’s Union Station, which opened on the same day as the golden spike ceremony, further solidified the city’s importance in the railroad network. The gathering serves as a reminder of the community's rich transportation history and its ongoing significance.