1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15

Spokane will honor the completion of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link on September 15, 2025, with a memorial plaque unveiling at 1 p. m. The gathering will occur along the Centennial Trail under the Monroe Street Bridge, marking 111 years since the original golden spike ceremony. The plaque, secured by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, highlights the railroad's transformative impact on Spokane's transportation and economy. The Ayer-Cutoff reduced travel time to the West Coast and integrated Spokane into a vital national railroad network.

Robert E. Strahorn, a prominent advocate for railroad expansion in Spokane, helped attract significant investments that established the city as a critical railroad hub. The unveiling of the plaque illustrates the community's commitment to preserving its transportation history. The original golden spike ceremony also coincided with the opening of Spokane's Union Station, further emphasizing the city's role in regional transport. This event serves as a reminder of Spokane's historical significance and its ongoing legacy in American transportation.