The Battle for the Land Office
Spokane Falls and Cheney trade barbs over the relocation of the federal land office, a prize that signifies the region's future growth.
The news that the land office has been ordered moved to Spokane Falls has caused supreme dissatisfaction in Cheney, but the majority of the people in the district are perfectly contented. The Tribune is disgruntled, looking through the green glasses of jealousy. There is no town easier of access than Spokane Falls, and its natural situation and importance is sufficient reason for it being chosen by the department as the location of the Land Office. The struggle for the Land Office has been carried on long and persistently by several towns in this part of the territory, and by none more keenly than Cheney. Not a stone was left unturned by the people of the county seat, but the official eyes were opened to the importance of the Falls, and a decision was made.
“The Tribune is disgruntled, and looking through the green glasses of jealousy, everything takes on the color predominating in that office.”
The rivalry between Spokane and Cheney over federal resources mirrors the modern-day competition between regional hubs for infrastructure and economic investment. The 'land office' was the engine of the 19th-century growth machine, determining which town would become the dominant commercial center of the Inland Northwest.
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