Lincoln County Carved Out
Legislative battle ends in the creation of a new county despite local opposition.
In the House this afternoon, the bill providing for the organization of Lincoln County came up as a special order. Mr. Stitzel, representative from Spokane and Stevens, championed the cause of those opposed to division and made a strong speech against the proposed measure. Mr. Smallwood, a member of the Third House, who favored the organization of a new county, was invited within the bar and spoke in favor of it. On the vote being taken, eight voted no and thirteen voted yea. As the bill had previously been passed by the Council, it will undoubtedly become law.
“There was much interest taken in the measure, pro and con, a large number of visitors were present to hear the debate.”
The creation of Lincoln County in 1883 reflects the rapid administrative expansion of Washington Territory. Territorial governance often involved intense localized political friction, mirroring how modern Washington residents continue to debate urban vs. rural representation and county-level infrastructure.
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