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
To
celebrate the 100th birthday of the Steam Plant, we brewed a barley wine using
Centennial hops and a blend of specialty malts. We cask-conditioned this
ale for the past three months to produce traditional character,
carbonation levels and a depth of flavors that will delight the palate. The
balance of malt, hops and alcohol lend to a smoothness that makes this sipping
beer a bit precarious. 10.0% ABV, 46 IBU
To the 100 year history of the iconic Steam Plant, we raise a challis and cheer
to the next 100 years!
OPEN DURING CONSTRUCTION!! Lincoln Street running north will be minimized to one lane traffic beginning MAY 31st, Please watch for signs for Parking and Deliveries along the way. Easiest route to come to our building would be as follows: Take 3rd avenue east bound till Post street, turn north on post street and go down two blocks just under the viaduct where we have validated parking for our customers!
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.
