Francis H. Cook, the Father of Manito Park – Part 7 – the story continues …

According to the book, “Manito Park: A Reflection of Spokane’s Past”:

We have already read about how strong Francis Cook was in the newspaper business here in Spokane, but according to the book mentioned above, beginning on September 21, 1886, Francis Cook again made history with another Spokane “first”.  He organized and hosted Spokane’s first annual county fair.  This event, representing Spokane and adjoining counties throughout the Washington and Idaho Territories, was held on his farm at the Montrose Park site.  It ran for 5 days and included numerous displays of produce and crafts, along with many various contests of skill.  Cook built what was later described as a pavilion.  It is unlikely this pavilion was built at the time of the fair to house displays.  The predominant events were various types of horse racing, in which Cook explicitly outlawed the use of spurs or whips.  It was typical at events or gatherings such as this to test for the fastest horses and most skillful men.  Time has not changed that competitive spirit – only the means.