It’S A Longtime Spokane Tradition

Naming Spokane’s federal courthouse for former House Speaker Tom Foley and its plaza for former Rep. Walt Horan would follow a long tradition of naming public structures after prominent politicians.

Sometimes we remember the name of the structures, but forget the politicians. Other times, we remember the politicians, but forget the structures.

Here’s a quick quiz on some of the buildings named for politicians:

1. What local bridge is named for Spokane’s longest-serving Democratic state senator?

2. What local bridge is named for Spokane’s longest-serving Republican state senator?

3. What local college building is named for Former U.S. Sen. Warren Magnuson.

4. What public school is named for Spokane’s third mayor?

5. What two public facilities are named for late mayor James Chase?

6. Another building in Spokane has Foley in its name, but not Tom Foley. Where is that building, and for whom is it named?

Answers:

1. The James E. Keefe Bridge - often called the Jimmy Keefe Bridge - is the Hamilton Street exit from Interstate 90.

2. The Sam Guess Bridge is the Division Street bridge across the Spokane River.

3. The Warren G. Magnuson Intercollegiate Center for Nursing Education.

4. Glover Middle School named after James Glover.

5. Chase Middle School, and the Chase Gallery, which is outside the City Council chambers in Spokane City Hall.

6. Gonzaga University’s Library is the Ralph E. and Helen Higgins Foley Center, named for the former speaker’s parents.