The Electric Building, as completed in 1928, represents one of the common building types and expressions for buildings constructed for light industry, show rooms, and warehousing. The structural expression of the brick building with pilasters, and expanses of steel sash, convey part of its purpose, while the more formal entrance provides it with a suitable presence for south Monroe Street in downtown Spokane. Pacific States Electric company was a major distributor of electrical appliances and goods for the region during an expansion of electrical use in the inland northwest, and as such fit the pattern of distribution centers along the historic rail corridor, but with interstate trucks as being the major mode for freight and goods movement. The historic significance is the role the building, this location, and this company in particular played in Spokane's role as a goods distribution center for the inland northwest. The increasing popularity of electricity and electric appliances during the second decade of the twentieth century, as well as Spokane's role in goods distribution, are conveyed by the late 1920s appearance of the building. It was purpose-built in a location near the rail line and in west downtown Spokane, convenient for both meeting with retailers and wholesalers, as well as shipping and receiving goods. The building also was used during the Cold War for a little-known function as an air defense filter center.

Management Agreement