Spokane's History Set To Take Center Stage At Upcoming National Convention

Preservation leaders from across the country are coming to Spokane

(September 10, 2012, Spokane, WA) -  Spokane will make history when the city hosts the National Preservation Conference (NPC) this fall. The National Trust for Historic Preservation brings its most prestigious conference to the Inland Northwest for the first time when Spokane hosts the NPC, October 31 - November 3, 2012. Spokane is believed to be the smallest city to ever host this highly regarded gathering of preservationists. "The City of Spokane is proud to host the National Preservation Conference this fall," says Spokane Mayor David Condon. "We may be the smallest city to ever host this conference, but our commitment to preserving our historic structures is big.  A walk through our downtown provides an illustration.  From the Fox Theater to The Steam Plant to the grand Davenport Hotel, our past lives for our citizens and visitors today."
Visit Spokane's Convention Sales team, local hospitality members and Spokane's robust preservation community worked together to win this conference, a process that started five years ago. "Representatives of the National Trust were impressed with our vibrant, walkable downtown with its wealth of historic buildings," said Paul Mann, Washington Trust for Historic Preservation. "They loved our historic neighborhoods and parks and our beautiful natural setting. But they were especially impressed with the dedicated individuals they met here."
Kristen Griffin, City of Spokane Historic Preservation Officer, says the conference is already having an impact on the preservation community. "So many organizations, businesses, institutions and individuals have pulled together to help plan the conference.  We hope that these new relationships will continue to work together on new shared goals. For example, helping promote Spokane as destination for heritage tourism," says Griffin.     
There are opportunities for the public to get involved. On Thursday, November 1, 7-10pm, historic South Hill homes will be open for the Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes. Many of the historic homeowners have never made their homes available to the public before this conference. Follow this link for ticket information. The NPC's Opening Plenary and Closing Plenary will also be open to the public. See a full schedule of public events by clicking here.
The conference is expecting as many as 2,000 people from around the country. Many attendees are influential in their own communities and will likely return home with a new respect and fondness for Spokane.The economic impact in the region will likely reach $4 million.

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