Jim Kershner’s this day in history

From our archives, 100 years ago

Spokane’s park system acquired a new jewel: Minnehaha Park.

The “40 acres of picturesque rock and dell and pine-studded slopes in the northeastern part of Spokane” was acquired through the generosity of the owner, John G.F. Heiber. It was the former country home of E.J. Webster, “Spokane’s globe trotter,” and for years had been a “semi-public playground.”

Now, the city had acquired not just the land but all of the extensive buildings from the old estate.

“The dwelling house will be used as a refreshment house, where candy, ice cream and soft drinks will be sold to help defray running expenses and accommodate picnic parties visiting the park,” the paper said.

One of the other buildings had an excellent dance floor, and the pavilion had room for a gymnasium and bowling alleys.

The city was also contemplating building tennis courts and baseball fields.

Also on this date

(From the Associated Press)

1639: New College was renamed Harvard College for clergyman John Harvard. … 1925: The Tennessee General Assembly approved a bill prohibiting the teaching of the theory of evolution. (Gov. Austin Peay signed the measure March 21.) … 1933: U.S. banks reopen after a “holiday” declared by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.