Spokane’s Historic Buildings: Where Documented History Meets Halloween Folklore

Every October, Spokane’s grand old buildings take on a new life in the public imagination. Their ornate facades and storied halls inspire both admiration and, at this time of year, a fair share of ghost stories. But what’s fact, and what’s folklore? Let’s explore two of Spokane’s most famous historic sites—The Davenport Hotel and Gonzaga University’s Monaghan Hall—where real events and local legends intertwine.

Ghost Stories, Real Buildings: Halloween in Historic Spokane

The Historic Davenport Hotel: Gilded Age Grandeur and a Tragic Fall

The Davenport Hotel stands as one of Spokane’s most iconic landmarks. Opened by Louis Davenport on September 1, 1914, and designed by renowned architect Kirtland Cutter, the hotel quickly became a symbol of luxury and innovation in the Inland Northwest (Still Open America, The Historic Davenport).

  • National Register of Historic Places: The Davenport was added to the National Register on September 5, 1975 (Still Open America).
  • Closure and Restoration: After closing in 1985, the hotel stood vacant for nearly two decades before reopening on July 15, 2002, following a major restoration (Still Open America).

But the Davenport’s history is not without tragedy. In 1920, guest Ellen McNamara died after falling through a skylight above the lobby court—a well-documented event that made headlines at the time (Still Open America).

Ghostly Legends: The Lady on the Mezzanine

Local legend holds that a woman in 1920s attire sometimes appears on the hotel’s mezzanine, her presence linked in stories to Ellen McNamara. Some tales also mention a phantom bellhop or the scent of cigar smoke drifting through empty corridors. However, while the tragic accident is a matter of record, there is no verified evidence of hauntings—these stories remain part of Spokane’s Halloween folklore (Still Open America).

Monaghan Hall, Gonzaga University: Music, Mystery, and a 1975 Exorcism

Monaghan Hall, built in 1898 by Spokane pioneer James Monaghan, has served as Gonzaga University’s Music Building since 1942 (HauntBound). Its stately brick exterior and long academic history make it a campus landmark.

  • Unexplained Phenomena: In February 1975, reports surfaced of unexplained organ and flute music, footsteps, and a swinging crucifix inside the building (HauntBound).
  • Rite of Exorcism: A four-day rite—variously described as an exorcism or house blessing—was performed to address these disturbances. Those involved later reported that the unexplained presence was gone, and subsequent reports of phenomena largely ceased (HauntBound).

While these events are documented, the cause of the disturbances remains unexplained. The stories of ghostly music and mysterious footsteps have become part of Gonzaga’s campus lore, especially around Halloween.

Fact vs. Folklore: Why These Stories Endure

What draws us to tales of haunted hotels and mysterious music? Often, it’s the blend of verifiable history and the unknown. The Davenport’s opulent halls and Monaghan Hall’s academic corridors are real places with real stories—tragedy, restoration, and community. The ghost stories, while unproven, add a layer of cultural texture, connecting generations through shared storytelling.

For those interested in Spokane’s historic buildings, these legends offer a playful way to engage with the past. But it’s important to distinguish between what’s documented and what’s simply a good story. If you’re considering investing in or restoring a historic property, focus on the facts—architectural history, ownership records, and physical condition—while enjoying the folklore as part of the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Checklist: Exploring Spokane’s Historic Buildings (Factually)

  • Research the building’s construction date, architect, and original owner using reputable sources.
  • Check for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places or local heritage lists.
  • Look for documented events (e.g., renovations, notable incidents) in newspaper archives or historical records.
  • Enjoy local legends, but verify claims before repeating them as fact.
  • Consult local historians or preservation groups for deeper context.

Conclusion

Spokane’s historic buildings are more than just backdrops for ghost stories—they are living links to the city’s past. Whether you’re drawn by the grandeur of the Davenport or the academic legacy of Monaghan Hall, remember that the real history is just as fascinating as the legends. This Halloween, let the stories inspire you, but let the facts guide your understanding of Spokane’s remarkable architectural heritage.

Resources and further reading