Welcome to the site of the historic Spokane House, a landmark that tells the story of early trade and exploration in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1810 by explorer-geographer David Thompson, Spokane House was the first long-term European settlement in what is now Washington State. Built at the confluence of the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, this trading post was a vital hub for the fur trade, catering to the needs of the North West Company, a Canadian enterprise.
The Spokane House was more than just a trading post; it was a melting pot of cultures and interactions. The post likely consisted of a store, warehouse, and living quarters for the men who managed the trade. In 1811, the American Pacific Fur Company, led by John Jacob Astor, established Fort Spokane nearby, although it was short-lived due to the outbreak of the War of 1812.
Spokane House played a significant role in the region’s fur trade until 1826, when the Hudson’s Bay Company, which absorbed the North West Company in 1821, decided to move its operations to Fort Colvile, deeming it a more strategic location. After 16 years of continuous operation, Spokane House was abandoned, but its legacy persisted in the region’s history.
The site itself has been the subject of archaeological studies, although the exact location of the original Spokane House remains uncertain. Today, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has developed the area to educate visitors about its historical importance.
Even though Spokane House is not currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places, its significance as a cultural and historical landmark endures. It serves as a reminder of the early days of European exploration and trade in the Northwest and the complex interactions between European settlers and indigenous peoples.
