On
March 5, 1916, Harry A. Flood, president of Merchants Central Heating Company
(now known as the Steam Plant), opened the valves to start operation – sending
steam heat to Gus Pearson of the Stockholm Hotel and Pearsons Building on Main
and Wall. Thus began the important role the Steam Plant plays in downtown
Spokane. This year’s centennial marks that significant event in the Steam Plant’s
history. Its story is one of determination, grit and continual innovation – and
it lives on today as one of Spokane’s iconic landmarks.
You’ll find centennial-themed products to take home including apparel, wine,
coffee and a special commemorative print suitable for framing.
View this short film showcasing the Steam Plant’s history and come visit us
soon to see this amazing space for yourself!
Check out the Historical Movie
August 4th and 5th is Spokane Brew Fest. Come visit Ben and taste some of our fabulous Steam Plant brew! Keep an eye out for other special tasting events held by the brewer himself! We'll be sure to post that information here and on Facebook.
The Steam Plant supplied heat to more than 300 buildings in downtown Spokane from 1916 until 1986. Ten years later, in 1996, Avista Corp and Wells and Company teamed up to bring the building back to life. It was transformed into the Steam Plant Square, a mixed-use space with much of its industrial equipment built into the decor and re-opened in 1999. The renovation earned multiple awards including the first-of-its-kind recognition from the National Trust for Historic Preservation for historic buildings in the Pacific Northwest region.
The iconic twin smokestacks stand 225’ high and have been opened up so you can step inside. Stacks Restaurant and the Steam Plant Brewing Co. & Pub are nestled among the remaining catwalks and pipes and boilers. Be sure to take a self-guided tour of this historic landmark. All levels are open to the public and are punctuated with displays revealing the history of the plant and its operations at the various viewpoints, highlighting its rich history and the important role it played in Spokane’s past.
