1914 Golden Spike Marker Placed Monday, September 15
Spokane community members will commemorate the 111th anniversary of the 1914 “Golden Spike” ceremony on September 15, 2025, with a memorial plaque installation. The event, taking place along the Centennial Trail under the Monroe Street Bridge, honors the completion of the Ayer-Cutoff railroad link. This 105-mile section dramatically shortened travel times to the west coast and integrated Spokane into a larger railroad network, enhancing its status as a transportation hub. The marker installation, supported by a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, involves the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Spokane Historic Preservation Office.
On the same day in 1914, Spokane's Union Station opened, offering vital passenger services until its demolition for Expo '74. The Ayer-Cutoff was championed by Robert E. Strahorn, who secured significant investments in the area. This event not only celebrates a historical milestone but also emphasizes Spokane's ongoing legacy in transportation and infrastructure development. The gathering aims to educate the community about the historical importance of the railroad in shaping the region.