Spokane Falls Catches the 'Building Fever'

Much to the mental pain and chagrin of those who do not wish to acknowledge it, and greatly to the exaltation of those interested, Spokane Falls exhibits every symptom of the growing fever in its most virulent form. The spirit of progress seems to have taken a firm hold upon the inhabitants and has no desire to let go. Every species of building from the cheapest habitation to the most expensive brick block is under way, or will be shortly, and there is no end to it. With the appearance of spring and steady weather the symphony of the hammer and trowel has filled the air, and the air has had no rest since. The building has not been confined to one portion of town, but every block can boast of an addition in the shape of a building since work commenced.

Much money has been already spent in improvements, but the sum total is nothing to compare with what will be expended during the balance of the year. The change that will be effected in our city during the next six months will be so great as to surprise even those who have studied the subject matter thoroughly. We hear of a great many new additions in the shape of conspicuous structures that are to assume shape in a short time, but among all of them the best is the proposed new brick block about to be commenced by Frank R. Moore, Esq., President of the First National Bank. The spot selected to be decorated by a brick edifice is the vacant space on the east side of Howard street between Riverside avenue and Main street. This vacuum is to be filled by one of the most expensive and prominent structures yet constructed in our city, where handsome brick buildings are too common to attract more than passing notice. The contract for excavating and basement walls has been let and work will commence immediately. The block will be 75 feet front on Howard street, with a depth of 78 feet. Mr. Moore has not yet decided whether it will be a two or three story building, but whichever it is the public can rest assured that it will be finished throughout without regard to expense. This block will be a striking improvement to Howard street and we feel satisfied will be followed by a number of other attractive buildings. It shows that our old citizens and capitalists have unwavering faith in the stability of our place and mean to do their share toward crowding ahead its prosperity.