Spokane, Washington

1974Expo '74 World's Fair: Spokane became the smallest city ever to host a World's Fair. Expo '74 focused on the environment and transformed the downtown railroad yards into Riverfront Park, the city's crown jewel.

1889Great Spokane Fire: A catastrophic fire destroyed 32 blocks of downtown on August 4, 1889. The city rebuilt rapidly in brick and stone, creating the handsome downtown that stands today.

1871Settlement at Spokane Falls: Settlers built a sawmill at the dramatic Spokane Falls, establishing the community that would grow into the largest city in the Inland Northwest.

1910Railroad and Mining Hub: Spokane became the commercial hub for the silver mines of northern Idaho, the timber industry, and railroad operations, with multiple lines converging downtown.

2015Outdoor Recreation Destination: Spokane's proximity to skiing, hiking, fishing, and river sports drove a lifestyle migration of young professionals seeking affordable outdoor living.

1881Railroad Arrives: The Northern Pacific Railway reached Spokane, connecting it to the national rail network and catalyzing growth from village to city.

1960Fairchild Air Force Base: Fairchild AFB near Spokane became a major Strategic Air Command base, housing B-52 bombers during the Cold War.

1994Gonzaga Basketball Rise: Gonzaga University's basketball program began its ascent to national prominence, eventually becoming a perennial powerhouse and putting Spokane on the sports map.

1942Aluminum Production: Kaiser Aluminum established operations near Spokane, powered by cheap Columbia River hydroelectricity.

2000Bloomsday Run: The annual Bloomsday Run grew into the largest timed road race in the world, with over 50,000 participants running through Spokane each May.