Spokane, the largest city on BNSF’s northern transcontinental rail line, has a rich history tightly entwined with railroading in the Pacific Northwest.
Since the arrival of BNSF predecessors like the Northern Pacific in 1881, Spokane has served as a pivotal center for the railroads. Known as the “Imperial City,” Spokane became a key gateway to the Pacific Northwest, especially after gold was discovered in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District in 1883. Railroads played a vital role in the city’s development, contributing to its reconstruction after a major fire in 1889.
Today, Spokane continues to be integral to BNSF’s network, which maintains significant operations in the area and supports the region’s economy.
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