Plantes Ferry

By Ashley Humbird Current contributor

The city of Spokane Valley embodies both youth and age simultaneously. Although Spokane Valley did not incorporate until March 31, 2003, the first settler in the Spokane area established a business and home along the Spokane River in the heart of the Valley.

Plante's Ferry, now the region's largest sports complex, conceals its history beneath well-manicured grass and paved parking lots. However, in the early 1850s, the current location of Plante's Ferry served as the only Spokane river crossing, operated by Antoine Plante's ferry. This crucial crossing point played a significant role in the development and growth of the Spokane Valley and the surrounding area. It facilitated the transportation of people, goods, and supplies, enabling trade and commerce to thrive in the region. Antoine Plante's ferry was an essential lifeline, connecting communities and fostering economic activity during a time when reliable river crossings were scarce. The legacy of Plante's Ferry as a vital historical landmark is a testament to the enduring impact of early pioneers like Antoine Plante on the development of the Spokane Valley.

The exact dates concerning Antoine Plante's settlement in the hills on the northern edge of the valley may be subject to debate. However, historical evidence suggests that around 1851 or 1852, he had already established a cableferry crossing and a small farmstead in the area. Antoine Plante, a remarkable individual of French Canadian and Gros Ventre Indian heritage, was born in the early 1800s, although specific records regarding his birthdate have not been discovered. Despite the lack of precise details, Antoine Plante's pioneering spirit and determination to establish a foothold in the Spokane Valley during the early 1850s serve as a testament to his adventurous nature and entrepreneurial mindset.

Antoine Plante had previously worked as a fur trapper for the Hudson Bay Company in the Spokane region. It is believed that he was chosen as a guide for the 1853 surveying expedition because of his extensive knowledge of the land. This expedition, led by

Isaac Stevens, the first Washington Governor, covered over 500,000 acres of wilderness, exploring new routes for wagon trails and railroads to connect the major forts in the area. In late 1853, Governor Stevens and his team passed through the Spokane Valley area.

Following the expedition, Antoine returned to the fording spot near the boulder patch known as Coyote Rocks, which served as a safe crossing point for the Coeur d'Alene and Spokane tribes on the Spokane River. Today, a stone monument erected in 1938 stands behind the natural crossing, displaying significant events with dates. The monument, 20 feet tall and weighing 23,800 pounds, provides a glimpse into the historical events that took place at and near the site.

Antoine Plante successfully operated a cable-ferry business for many years, becoming a regular stop for travelers. Historical records show that wagons with two animals were charged $4.00 for the river crossing, with an additional $0.50 per animal. His boat was recorded as being forty feet long. According to his granddaughter Maggie McDonald, the house he lived in during those days was larger than most, featuring multiple rooms and an attic. The living room's ceiling had a painted circular design (Spokesman Review, December 17, 1933).

His homestead also played a role in the convening of the council of Inland Northwest tribes in November 1855. Governor Stevens sent messengers to leaders of the Spokanes, Coeur d'Alenes, Pend Oreilles, and Okanogans to meet at Antoine Plante's place. Although there is no record of Plante's involvement in the council's deliberations, he sometimes played a diplomatic role.

Antoine obtained a license that required him to pay an annual tax of $25 to the county for the operation of the ferry, which lasted until 1866 when a wooden bridge was constructed.

In 1866, the first Spokane bridge was built, rendering the ferry crossings obsolete. Plante remained in the area for some time, but eventually moved his family to the Jocko Valley in western Montana, where he passed away in 1890. He was buried in an unmarked grave near the St. Ignatius Mission.

Although Antoine Plante left the Spokane Valley, many consider him to be its first settler. His legacy endures through Plante's Ferry State Park and Sports Complex, as well as Antoine Peak.

Antoine Peak, named in his honor in the 1920s, has recently been designated as a conservation area between 2007 and 2019.

Plante's Ferry State Park and Sports Complex, situated along the Spokane River, is a delightful park to explore. Within its borders stands a large metal statue depicting

Antoine Plante. Visitors can enjoy playsets, hiking trails, picnic tables, and sports fields.

Antoine Peak offers a panoramic 360-degree view from its summit, which stands at 3,373 feet. It can be accessed from three different trailheads.

As you walk alongside the trees and rushing waters of the Spokane River, remember the man who aided thousands of settlers in their journey to new homes across the Inland Northwest.

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