1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15
Spokane community members will gather on September 15, 2025, to honor the completion of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link with a memorial plaque ceremony. This event marks the 111th anniversary of the golden spike ceremony, which significantly shortened travel times to the West Coast and connected Spokane to an extensive railroad network. The gathering will occur at 1 p. m. along the Centennial Trail under the Monroe Street Bridge, with the plaque placed by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Spokane’s Union Station also opened on this historic day in 1914, providing vital passenger services until its demolition for Expo ’74. Robert E. Strahorn, a prominent advocate for railroad development in Spokane, was instrumental in securing investments that established the city as a key railroad hub. The grant for the plaque was provided by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, in cooperation with the Spokane Historic Preservation Office.
This ceremony not only recognizes the historical significance of the Ayer-Cutoff but also celebrates Spokane's legacy in railroad history.