Historic Properties of Spokane
Spokane Fire Station No. 3
Built in 1912, Spokane Fire Station No. 3 at 1229 N. Monroe Street serves as testament to the evolution of fire response in Spokane. The brick shop constructed west of the wood fire station in 1912 was instrumental in the transition of the Spokane Fire Department from horse-drawn fire wagons, to motorized vehicles. Although the change was inevitable from the purchase of the first auto truck in 1910, the construction of the shop to build motorized equipment likely accelerated that transition. Fourteen “auto” fire apparatus were built by fire fighters while on duty, which enabled the department to accelerate the acquisition of motorized vehicles that would replace horse-drawn wagons and save the city money. At present, this building exhibits a red brick exterior and retains its historic two-story commercial style. The adjoining structure, built in 1917, also maintains a red brick exterior with a concrete foundation and a flat tar roof. The interior of the station, despite renovation to accommodate modern business activities, retains many features reminiscent of its original purpose, including the sliding pole.




