SPOKANE, Wash. – November 29, 2025 marks the 144th anniversary of Spokane becoming an incorporated city. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the city's name, Spokane, means "children of the sun."

Spokane officially became a city in 1881. At that time, it was known as "Spokan Falls" and had a population of 350 residents.

In 1889, the city faced a major setback when a fire destroyed 32 blocks of downtown Spokane.

The new city hall was constructed in 1913 at the southwest corner of Spokane Falls Boulevard and Wall Street. It served as the city's main offices until 1981, Spokane's centennial year.

In 1974, Spokane hosted the World's Fair, Expo 74, filling Riverfront Park, which was previously an old rail yard. The legacy of this event is still visible in the city today.

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