100 years ago in Spokane: Health ordinance puts strict ban on public congregation

The number of Spanish flu cases rose to 300 in Spokane and even stricter measures were implemented.

Even a “clairvoyance seance,” conducted by a local medium, was “rudely interrupted” by a city health officer. The medium was booked on a charge of violating the health ordinance.

Dr. J.B. Anderson, the head city health officer, also shut down a “bargain sale” at one Spokane store because it would attract crowds. Many businesses were allowed to stay open, but not in a way that would attract throngs.

“In no place – business house or private home – must people congregate,” Anderson said. “Whenever a public gathering is allowed there will be immediate and serious trouble for those persons responsible.”

The operator of the Pastime Poolroom was arrested for allowing “nearly a hundred men to congregate in the place, playing cards and amusing themselves in other ways.”

Nearly all public gatherings were already banned. Schools, churches, theaters, bowling alleys and social clubs were all closed.

Anderson continued to wax optimistic, noting that reports out of Seattle indicated that the epidemic may have begun to recede there. If true, the same should occur in Spokane within the next week, he said. He did admit that “there is no telling what course” the disease might take.