Mon., May 30, 2016

S-R Archive find of the day: Spokane’s first “Big” Memorial Day Parade in 1884

Spokane's First "Big" Memorial Day Parade- The first observance of Memorial day in Spokane was held Friday, May 30, 1884. The parade in the photo was moving along Second Avenue, en route to the cemetary on Cannon hill. The procession was led by Frank Johnson, marshal of the day, followed by personnel of the police force, including the town marshal, Joe Warren. Members of Sedgwick post followed, then Pynn's band and all the men who had served any time under the flag. After decoration of the graves, the company dispersed.

S-R Archive find of the day: The first observance of Memorial day in Spokane was held Friday, May 30, 1884. The parade in the photo was moving along Second Avenue, en route to the cemetary on Cannon hill. The procession was led by Frank Johnson, marshal of the day, followed by personnel of the police force, including the town marshal, Joe Warren. Members of Sedgwick post followed, then Pynn's band and all the men who had served any time under the flag. After decoration of the graves, the company dispersed.

Posted May 30, 2016, 6 a.m.