SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane’s iconic Steam Plant is preparing to celebrate its centennial in March. There are multiple events set for the celebration of the Spokane landmark.
The Steam Plant, formerly known as the Merchants Central Heating Company, opened the valves on March 5, 1916 by the company’s president, Harry A. Flood.
The Steam Plant created and supplied heat to more than 300 buildings in Downtown Spokane from 1916 until 1986. The valves would send steam heat to Gus Pearson of the Stockholm Hotel and Pearsons Building on Main and Wall. In 1996 it was transformed into Steam Plant Square, but an effort was made to retain as much of the equipment and industrial materials as possible.
The celebration is slated for March 4 and 5 at the Steam Plant Square on 159 S. Lincoln in Spokane. On March 4 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. there will be a “First Friday” exhibit featuring two local artists and their interpretations of local icons and scenery. A commemorative Steam Plant print is also being presented.
On Saturday March 5, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. there will be a commemorative address by Steam Plant reps and former employees, as well as a short film of the plant’s history and live music.
Both days are free and open to the public. For more information visit the Steam Plant website.
