How the Inland Northwest Celebrated America's Sesquicentennial and Bicentennial

As the nation commemorates its founding, the Inland Northwest region has a rich history of celebrations on the Fourth of July. This day, in particular, holds significant importance as it marks the anniversary of America's independence. In this article, we'll delve into the region's past celebrations, highlighting the sesquicentennial and bicentennial commemorations.

The year 1976 was a pivotal moment in American history, as the nation celebrated its bicentennial. According to President Gerald Ford, it was going to be “the greatest Fourth of July any of us will ever see.” The Inland Northwest was no exception, with cities like Spokane, Idaho, and surrounding areas participating in the festivities. In Spokane, the Episcopal Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist was the focal point of the celebrations, featuring concerts by the Spokane Brass Ensemble, a talk by Nathan Pusey, the president emeritus of Harvard, and a town fair.

In contrast to other cities, Spokane did not sponsor a fireworks display, opting for more subdued celebrations. However, neighboring cities like Tekoa made up for it with their Slippery Gulch Days celebration, which began on July 3 and featured one of the best parades the area had ever seen. The parade route was lined with spectators, and the event was a resounding success. Additionally, a pony express relay competition was held between Pinehurst and Pritchard in Idaho, adding to the region's festive atmosphere.

To understand the evolution of Fourth of July celebrations in the Inland Northwest, it's essential to look at how the region commemorated this day in the past. In 1926, the Fourth of July festivities in Spokane were relatively subdued, as it fell on a Sunday. The big fireworks celebration at Natatorium Park was planned for July 5, but the main event of the day was a radio wedding, broadcast live on KHQ radio station. Robert Hammerschmidt and Ethel May, a couple who were driving to Spokane, decided to get married on a whim, and the radio station hosted the ceremony.

The wedding was a groundbreaking event, as it was the first time a wedding ceremony was broadcast live on the radio. The ceremony was conducted by Justice Mann, and it was a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation. The couple exchanged vows in front of the microphone, with Mendelssohn's Wedding March playing in the background. This unique event showcased the region's ability to adapt and innovate, even in the early 20th century.

As we look back on these historic celebrations, it's clear that the Inland Northwest has a rich cultural heritage. From the sesquicentennial to the bicentennial, the region has consistently come together to commemorate America's independence. The Fourth of July is a time for reflection, celebration, and community bonding, and the Inland Northwest has a proud tradition of making this day special.

In conclusion, the Inland Northwest's celebrations of America's sesquicentennial and bicentennial are a testament to the region's patriotism, community spirit, and innovative approach to commemorating historic events. As we move forward, it's essential to appreciate and learn from the past, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate the significance of the Fourth of July.