The Clark Mansion, Part 4 of Many
1975 - 1979
This is a necessarily long post. Because a lot happened here. And I've even pulled out some very interesting stuff into the next post, but it STILL is long. But very VERY interesting, indeed!
1975
Several sources indicate the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places (Clouse, 2019), (Boggs, 2004). Prager indicates it was on the Register as a part of the Browne's Addition Historic District (Historic Patsy Clark's restored, 2006). At least one author indicates it was added in 1976 (Riordan, 2019), but the City of Spokane has the precise date as 31 October 1975 (City of Spokane, 2005).
30 January 1975
French Room Elegant
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1975 |
This indicates that the 1974 Lilac Queen is in the elegant French Room.
"The original gold-leaf Louis XIV furniture, which was in the house when the Clarks lived there, has been refurbished and is back in the room at the west side. ... The room has an Italian marble fireplace."
"Elaborate parties, wedding receptions, weddings and debuts had an appropriate setting as the Clark family entertained in style in the golden era of Spokane's social life in the grand manner early in the century. The house is now occupied by the owners, Mr. and Mrs. G.O. Larson, and is operated as an historic attraction. The mansion has many handsome furnishing and unusual features to view."
6 September 1975
Items Stolen
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1975 |
29 September, 1975
Rich in History
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| Young, Clark Mansion Rich in History, 1975 |
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| Young, Clark Mansion Rich in History, 1975 |
Clark reportedly paid a fortune for the house and furnishings, spending $17,000 for just one library rug woven in Turkey.
The (historic place designation) gives buildings some protection from demolition by projects which use federal funds. But the designation doesn't restrict the owner's authority to change or even tear down the structures.
If selected for the national register, buildings become eligible for federal funds for restoration, even though they remain in private ownership.
18 November 1975
Landmark Recognized
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| Newspapers.com, 1975 |
Seventy-seven years after its intricate and lengthy construction began, Spokane's Patrick Clark Mansion has been entered in the National Register of Historic Places. The ornate home at W2208 Second was built -- over a two-year period because most of the materials were imported from Europe -- by the early-day mining magnate for his wife and six children. It became the Francis Lester Inn, a hotel, in 1946, and later was a wedding, catering and reception center. The building once was threatened with demolition, but now is an historic attraction with tours.
1 December 1975
Clark Mansion in Register
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1975 |
Registration gives a degree of protection from arbitrary alteration and destruction by federally funded projects, and the owner of the building is eligible for consideration to receive grant-in-aid funds to assist in restoration ....
It is considered the most elaborate building ever attempted by Cutter ....
1976
11 February 1976
Millionaires left legacy to city
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| Young, Clark Mansion Millionaires left legacy to city, 1976 |
This author, Larry Young, came up with some new information about the man and the mansion.
Spokane's early day millionaires -- often crude, always show-offs who lived life to the hilt -- left a unique legacy of homes to the city ....
-- Clark Mansion ... contains the largest piece of stained glass ever made for a private home in the United States.
... Patsy Clark never wanted his wife to know how much he spent for his home so he kept the total cost secret from all -- even destroying some of the bills. But it cost well over $1 million.
The Clark Mansion's entrance was done in a Moorish style by Flemish artisans. The hand-tooled cowhide wallcovering in the hall is embossed in gold.
Most of the nouveau riche of the day longed for a past and a pedigree .... A ridiculous example of this is a coat of arms in the Wall of the Clark Mansion, copied right up to the bar sinister, which means illegitamate birth.
One wonders if this wasn't a tongue in cheek?
28 June 1976
Clark Mansion Historical Piece
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| Newspapers.com 1976 Part 1 |
In 1880, some 350 persons lived at Spokane Falls. Today (1976) there are nearly 37,000 and more coming in daily.
The article goes on to explain minute details of early Spokane life.
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| Newspapers.com 1976 Part 2 |
The true Age of Elegance is in the homes ... in "Browne's Addition."
Pat Clark commissioned Cutter to build a home ... and gave him carte Blanche to roam the world for materials and furnishing.
1 August 1976
Kirtland Cutter Tour of Homes
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| Parsons, Clark Mansion part of Kirtland Cutter Tour of Homes |
12 August 1976
Browne's Addition Historical District
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1976 |
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1976 |
Two sections of Spokane were recently placed on the National Register of Historic Places ....
... Browne's Addition historical District ... [is] thus eligible for federal funds to pay 50 per cent of the cost of any approved restoration project....
Most homes in the neighborhood of Browne's Addition are in the second new historical district. The street boundaries are: Riverside on the north, Coeur d'Alene on the west, Maple on the east, Sunset Boulevard on the southeast and Fifth on the south.
Browne's Addition Historical District is one of the most interesting in the state ... because of its variety of architectural styles -- including Tudor, Georgian, Colonial, Gothic and Florentine.
Many of the homes were designed by the late Kirtland Kelsey Cutter, well-known Spokane architect, whose own Swiss chalet style home ... gave way to a condominium in 1973.
26 September 1976
Clark Mansion part of House Tours Stopover
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| Parsons, Clark Mansion part of House Tours Stopover, 1976 |
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| Parsons, Clark Mansion part of House Tours Stopover, 1976 |
Other homes on the tour are in Browne's Addition, the area where high society thrived during the 'Age of Elegance.' Mr. and Mrs. G.O. Larson own the large, brick villa at W2208 Second directly across from Coeur d'Alene Park. This home is still known as the Clark Mansion in honor of the original owners, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Clark.
Known as the Francis Lester Inn for 18 years, Clark Mansion has been undergoing restoration for almost eight years, under the direction of MR. and Mrs. Larson
For Clark, whose desire it was to have the most elegant home of his time, Cutter imported choice materials and furnishings and decorated the interior in a combination of styles.
The vestibule and entry hall are Moorish in design; the reception room, in sharp contrast, is of French decor, with an elaborate painted ceiling. When Clark commissioned Cutter to do his home, his orders were to use nothing but the best, with no cost restrictions. The resulting architecture represents French, Roman, Moorish, Chinese and Egyptian styles
The home has nine fireplaces, each distinctive to match the room. These were functional as well as decorative and provided heat for the home.
Features include a Tiffany stained glass window on the landing above the large entry; a huge grandfather clock ordered to match the wood in the entry, which has works ordered from London. It was housed in a case made by Tiffany's. There are wall hangings of tapestry and silk velour, and the dining room typifies the carved beams and decor of that era.
The original oak furniture is still used in the dining room and other areas. Tour participants will notice the size and elegance of the master bedroom.Okay, we've seen this term 'Moorish' several times, now. It is indeed an archaic term. What style is "Moorish?" Let's find out, shall we? According to Wikipedia (yes, not actually a creditable source, but neither is this blog), "the term 'Moors' refers primarily to the Muslim inhabitants of -- among others -- The Iberian Peninsula, Sicily and Malta during the middle ages. The name was later applied to Arabs" I suspect it was the latter which was referred to. To see one image example, go here.
16 November 1976
Will buy antiques and collectibles
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| Newspapers.com, 1976 |
1977
A trio of partners purchased the home in 1977 (Clouse, 2019).
1 May 1977
Restored to original grandeur
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington 1977 |
All Spokane knows the magnificent Clark Mansion as one of the premier homes of our city. We are proud to have been selected as the exclusive sales agents representing the present owners of this superb property. Qualified buyers are invited to call for a private showing. Home with 13 bedrooms, 5 baths, 9 fireplaces, remodeled kitchen. Old carriage house converted into 5 apartments. Many original furnishings included. Restored to original grandeur, $195,000
The Mansion is once again up for sale. I think it must be the Larsons are selling, for whatever reason. It becomes a bit hard to keep up with the provenance of the building. It has 13 bedrooms and five baths. That should be interesting!
4 May 1977
Clark Mansion Tour is Slated
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| Newspapers.com Mansion Tour is Slated 1977 |
A tour of the Clark Mansion ... will be sponsored by the Soroptimist Club of Spokane. Refreshments will be Served.
Mrs. Gerald O. Larson, a Soroptimist Club member and her husband own the home, which they are trying to restore. Soroptimist Club members will be hostesses and will lead tours of the home. Proceeds will benefit club philanthropies. Tickes will be available at the door.
29 July 1977
Larson running for City Council Bio
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| Newspapers.com, Larson bio 1977 |
Larson runs for city council because, "I was rather appalled at the lack of what I would call qualified candidates, compared to what we have had in the past."
5 August 1977
26 room brick villa open for viewing
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1977 |
Has anyone counted the rooms? It went from 13 rooms and five baths to now 26 rooms.
4 September 1977
G.O. Larson runs for City Council
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| The Spokesman-Review, 1977 |
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| The Spokesman-Review, 1977 |
25 September 1977
Historical Excellence for Sale
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| James S. Black & Co., 1977 |
The magnificent Clark Mansion is known as one of the premier homes of our city. Designed by Kirkland [sic] Cutter. We are proud to have been selected as the exclusive sales agents representing the present owners of this superb property restored to 1898 grandeur. This home features influences of French, Roman, Moorish, Chinese & Egyptian decor with 13 bedrooms, 5 lavish baths, 9 unique fireplaces, remodeled deluxe family room and kitchen. Separate old carriage house converted into 5 apartments with fine income. Many original antique furnishings included. $225,000
So this old house is for sale again? Are the current owners still the Larson's? The price is a bit different. So what is the back story here?
6 October 1977
Clark Mansion to be Sold as Restaurant
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| Bartel, 1977 |
This article clears up a few questions I've had. The current owner is G.O. Larson, who purchased it from Earl Hipp and his son. Larson wants to sell it to a couple of men who plan to make it into a fine dining restaurant. Anderson helped restore and convert the Historic Spokane Flour Mill into shopping and office building. Quinn owns several Black Angus restaurants and "Charlie's Restaurant" in Seattle.
I have so far been able to "keep up with the Jones's" and can still follow the line of owners.
10 December 1977
Clark Mansion Items to be Sold
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1977 |
The Beautiful Old "Clark Mansion" has been sold and as should be the original furnishings are remaining with the home. However, there are many items to be sold. Antiques, collectibles, and just plain usable and restorable items.
The mansion looks as if it has sold by Christmas 1977. This is the first mention of the done deal that I've found.
22 December 1977
Zoning for Restaurant
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| Roberts, 1977 |
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| Roberts 1977 |
Spokane City Zoning Board authorized the conversion of the 79-year-old mansion into a "high quality restaurant." Apparently, there was "heavy opposition" from Browne's Addition residents. It is changed from a multi-family residence to a limited residence-office classification, but the owners must preserve the historic qualities.
Tony Anderson and Charles Quinn purchased the mansion for $210,000 from G.O. Larson (who, we find here, did not get that City Council spot he campaigned for).
"We purchased as much of the original furniture as we could get," said Anderson. "It will be used for display only."
... the restaurant should be in operation within four to five months.
The opposition ... is composed of area residents and property owners who want to conserve and enhance the Browne's Addition Historic district.
... the restaurant would generate traffic, cause noise, result in on-street parking, and adversely affect the historic character of the area. 114 residents oppose the zone change.
Larson said he attempted to preserve the mansion by offering public tours, charging $1.50 for adults and $1 for children. But no one came. He said the people who are objecting did not support the project.
22 December 1977
Seen as Restaurant
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| Newspapers.com, Clark Mansion seen as Restaurant, 1977 |
Another article saying that if the Spokane Zoning Board approves, the mansion will become a restaurant. Opponents argued that the historical quality of the neighborhood would diminish, what with the increase in traffic, noise and parking problems. They also argued about permitting liquor, which had been sold in the Francis Lester Inn for many years.
The board stipulated that the owners place high priority to preserving the historicity of the mansion; limit seating; improve parking; limit hours of operation; prohibit transfer of ownership; and make sure the restaurant was "high quality."
1978
This seems to be the year of controversy. The rezoning plan approved by the Spokane City Council got everyone up in arms. I wonder if the restaurant operated during this time? Hmm, maybe not, it wasn't supposed to begin operations until about May.
4 January 1978
Zone Board Critic
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| Galloway, R., Zone Board Critic, 1978 |
Rick Galloway believes the decision "was a slap in the face for every property owner under their jurisdiction." Galloway is upset that, despite offering a petition signed by 75 percent of the community, "the board decided unanimously in favor of the rezone."
"If those in authority insist on dictating the fate of our neighborhood, why do they even bother with this pretense of democracy? It appears that we who live here have no voice in the destiny of Browne's Addition."
9 January 1978
Zoning Board Action
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| Galloway, R., Letter to Editor: Zoning Board Action Hit, 1978 |
11 January 1978
Rezoning
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| Campbell, 1978 |
Paul Campbell feels the board was acting outside their parameters, ignoring the voices opposing the plan, and ignoring the existing guidelines.
3 February 1978
Future of Mansion
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Those who agree with the rezoning to allow limited business and office, feel this is a way to preserve the mansion. Those who oppose claim there would not be enough parking, with one resident filing a formal complaint. I'm sure we will see more from this in the future -- because I took a sneak peak, don't you know!
7 February 1978
Council to be Tested
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
It looks like the Council promised to keep their meetings short, but may not be able to make that promise. At the rezoning hearing for the Clark Mansion, they expect residents to be up in arms. The discussion will revolve around the question of "human services" which is defined here as "governmental efforts to serve persons 'for whom traditional public services are insufficient, inadequate or exclusive.'"
The article goes on to discuss various other council-y type proceedings.
8 February 1978
Hearing Scheduled on rezoning plan
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Public Hearing on the question of whether the historic, 79-year-old Clark Mansion ... should be rezoned for conversion to a restaurant....
13 February 1978
Ruling due on Mansion
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle,Spokane Washington 1978 |
The restaurant controversy parallels one two years ago at Hayden Lake, Idaho. A restaurant was proposed there in another historic structure, the Clark House, which was built in 1909 for wealthy Spokane mining man, F. Lewis Clark. While it was approved, the owner was discouraged by the opposition and abandoned the project.
15 February 1978
City Council Meets While City Snoozes
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No Mansion Decision
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| Roberts, No Mansion Decision, 1978 |
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Three hours of tortuous repetitious testimony and there is still no answer in sight. The opposition, lead by Galloway, added signatures so they total 211 opposing the conversion of the Mansion -- 85% of the residents.
Anderson reminds them that the building WAS a restaurant in the past -- remember the Francis Lester Inn? The owners want to save the building and the furniture. They also promise to do everything they can to solve the off-street parking problem. If the decision is denied, the owners have three choices -- Appeal the decision, try to sell the property, or demolish and brecoup some of their money. This prompted one of the Councilmen to state he felt a bit threatened into making a quick decision.
24 February 1978
Letter to Editor
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| Claussen, 1978 |
This writer has pinned the tail on the donkey. The residents do not feel as if they have been heard by those who are making decisions affecting them. This is very frustrating, making them feel as if they are "banging our heads against a brick wall."
Some of the things the residents do NOT want are: intoxicated drivers; odour of cooking grill; noisy delivery trucks and garbage trucks; and especially the extra traffic and parked cars! The ones most affected would be "our children and elderly people trying to cross the streets through the increase in traffic and the certainty of the drunk driver right across the street from Coeur d'Alene Park."
The author claims to have provided absolute proofs for their position. I cannot say one way or another. I do have an advantage of seeing what the outcome actually was. I think we will get to that.
Rezoning Idea Criticized
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| Bakken, 1978 |
This writer submitted a letter he'd given the Mayor and the City Council. The writer feels that since there is greater interest in old home restoration, that introducing a commercial enterprise would destroy that momentum.
"It is time for the city council to do its job and represent the citizens of Spokane and particularly the residents of this neighborhood and not the interests of a few entrepreneurs. Denial of this request would allow additional time to consider other options more consistent with the present residential environment."
25 February 1978
Spokane City Council Marathon Sessions
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| Craig, Spokane City Council Marathon Sessions, 1978 |
John Craig writes about how the council meetings verge on being a thing of ridicule. He offers some advise for the mayor and the council. "Fairness is the key."
26 February 1978
Restaurant Objector
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| Galloway, P., 1978 |
Mrs. Galloway and her family live in another historic home which is on the register of Historical Places. It was owned by the first Mayor Fotherinham, and the Patrick F. Clark family lived there while their own home was under construction.. She writes that the community is starting a neighborhood association, and placing a commercial zoning here would stunt growth. She asks if any other neighborhood would allow such an endeavor -- obviously not.
"I think the answer is that those in power see no other way of saving the Clark Mansion. I believe that they are laboring under the threat that it may be lost forever. It is my opinion that we may lose this entire neighborhood ... if they allow this rezone."
27 February 1978
Council Passes Restaurant OK
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Whelp, they did it. The council approved the conversion of the Clark Mansion into a restaurant. It took a bit of finangling with who was abstaining, and who was present to get the final vote.
I bet they are happy this is done and final.
Mansion Restaurant approved
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| Roberts, Restaurant Use Approved, 1978 |
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| Roberts, Restaurant Use Approved, 1978 |
This is another article describing how the city council voted 4-2 denying the protest by James Galloway III. This has been the hottest zoning controversy in several years.
Council members suffered "considerable arm-twisting, mostly through telephone calls and letters."
The council's rationale for allowing the zoning are as follows:
-- the property cannot be economically maintained as a single-family residence.
-- conversion of the 26-room showplace, already listed in the National REgister of Historic Places, to apartment use would destroy its value as an historical monument.
-- utilization of the site, with either the existing structure or a new facility, likely would consist of high-density multiple residence use and therefore would generate more vehicular traffic.
-- there is no solid evidence rezoning for restaurant use would adversely affect nearby property values.
-- extent of the traffic and parking problem, if any, can be determined only from monitoring the restaruant.
Others feared that "conversion of the structure into a restaurant will 'open the area up to commercialism.'"
"... a provision included ... that owners, after each six month period, must review the traffic and parking situation with city planning officials."
Again, I bet the council members are glad this is put to bed. No more Clark Mansion controversy!
9 March 1978
Clark Home Zone Foes Go to Court
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, 1978 |
But Wait! There's more! This case isn't over after all. Now it goes before the Superior Court ... for all the reasons enumerated earlier. Look at the capacity. First it was 115 person, now it is 130 with only 15 off-street parking spaces planned.
"The City Council's failure to require adequate off-street parking fora commercial use in the midst of a residential neighborhood is 'clearly erroneous and arbitary and capricious on its face' .... "
10 March 1978
Mansion issue in court
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Nothing new to see here. Move along.
24 March 1978
Review request disputed by city
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| Burnette, Review Request Disputed by City, 1978 |
The Citizens of Residential Browne's Addition have spoken, now the City Council responds. It looks like the boxing gloves are out.
In one corner, Citizens contend "the rezoning conflicts with the city's comprehensive master plan as it relates to the historically residential Browne's Addition." [editor's note -- My two cents' worth is that they seem to have forgotten that it was a restaurant before for a long time, as the Francis Lester Inn. Were there parking problems then?]
In the other corner, Promoters (and presumably the owners of the Mansion, Anderson and Quinn) contend that the only way to preserve the mansion is to convert it into a restaurant.
In the third corner, the City Council claims the affidavit of Browne's Addition property owner Woodruff may not be legal, and does not adequately show that property owners and association members have rights giving them standing. [editor's note -- Honestly, I don't really know what this paragraph means, and I admit I may have paraphrased it wrong] The Council attorney states the Citizens failed to make a "proper claim or why they feel entitled to relief through the writ of review" and that the city is thus unable to understand the Citizens' claims. The claims include that the City did not "comply with the state Environmental Policy Act, did not comply with the City Charter [and they] violated the Open Public Meetings Act."
Apparently, the City will make available the Clark Mansion file as requested by the Citizens, but demands prepayment of the cost of duplicating the video files, and photocopying the papers. "no writ (should) [sic] be issued ordering certification and filing of a complete verbatim record without some provision for prepayment or recovery of the city's costs."
7 April 1978
Grandson joins dispute
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| McBride, 1978 |
Deborah McBride adds an article about the debate. Let's hear what she has to say.
She writes that the Grandson of Patsy Clark, Geoffrey L. Clark, used to live in the mansion when he was a boy. He is trying to raise enough funds -- $250,000 -- to "buy the mansion from the current owners who have proposed turning it into a restaurant."
He claims getting the money will not be a problem. The problem would be finding a non-profit organization -- or creating one -- to accept the tax-free money and use it to buy the mansion. The donors could then use this as a tax write-off to charitable deduction.
Oh, yeah -- the current owners would need to agree to sell the property.
Part of the complaints about a commercial restaurant in residential area is the increase of delivery trucks near the park, and drunk drivers leaving late at night.
Clark wrote asking if Eastern Washington State Historical Society would accept the house as a museum piece similar to the Campbell House.
"My interest in this is purely sentimental as it was built by my grandfather, Patrick F. Clark, and I greatly enjoyed living there in my youth."
Let's find out how Geoffrey L. Clark is related. According to my Ancestry.com research, this would be Geoffrey Lavell Clark, born 1909 and died 1995. He was the son of Patrick W. and Sarah Lavell Clark. His Find a Grave memorial is here.
Mansion in controversy
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
This is a shorter version of the same McBride article, above
8 April 1978
Clark Relative Leads Drive to Save Home
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, 1978 |
18 April 1978
Letter to Editor by Podobnik
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| Podobnick, Letter to Editor, 1978 |
Mr. Podobnick gives his opinion on combating Urban Sprawl. One way, he writes, is to stregnthen existing residential neighborhoods. "The use of zone changes to introduce incompatible elements into a neighborhood destroys this charactor [sic]." He writes about the obvious problems including noise, odors, traffic, parking. "Browne's Addition has been improving and upgrading itself, but this would all be reversed by locating a restaurant in its midst."
25 May 1978
Mansion to Appeal
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
In addition to fighting City Hall about the restaurant zoning, now the owners Anderson and Quinn are appealing the denial of a liquor license. The Liquor Control Board denied it because "there was substantial local objection to the issuance of the license and a parking problem for prospective patrons."
Anderson claims that the major reason for the refusal was the court suit. They will ask the board "to set aside their liquor license application, without prejudice, until after the suit is settled.
Liquor Sale Appeal Due
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
In this article, we find a third owner, Kenneth Bauer. Otherwise this is a smaller blurb of the same article above.
23 august 1978
Council Rezone OK debated
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Should they or shouldn't they? Is it an arbitrary ruling or is it well thought out? After listening for two hours, the Judge "pledged prompt consideration of the issues."
Uh-oh. There's a twist to the story. Apparently two council members received campaign contributions from Anderson, one of the owners. The attorney for the mansion owners said the contributions were nominal -- meaning about $100 (which would be just over $400 today).
Another twist -- "some of the petitioners have a commercial interest in the area because of rental property they own there."
Opening of diner delayed
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| Burnett, Opening of Diner Delayed, 1978 |
The first steak dinner is delayed. Thus writes Tom Burnett. Judge Thompson needs time to "digest" the voluminous case file.
Attorney for the developers John Murray "traced the history of the mansion from it once being known as the Francis Lester Inn where dinners were served from 1970 to 1975 when pervious [sic] owners Gerald and Doris Larson catered large wedding receptions."
The mansion also served as a hotel and a girls' dancing school.
18 October 1978
Court Invalidates Restaurant Zoning
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, 1978 |
The gavel comes down on the side of ... the Citizens of Browne's Addition.
Judge Thompson ruled that the City Council's approval was invalid. He took 24 pages to say that, yes -- "the historical mansion needs to be preserved as a landmark or monument, [but] making it a restaurant would not necessarily preserve it as such and would probably create parking and traffic problems for the surrounding neighborhood."THIS must be the end of it. I'm sure there will be a few more articles on this decision. Hang on there
19 October 1978
Restaurant plan reversed
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| Burnette, Clark Mansion Restaurant Plan Reversed, 1978, Part 1 |
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| Burnette, Clark Mansion Restaurant Plan Reversed, 1978 Part 2 |
Judge Thompson did rule that the council vote "was arbitrary and capricious, [and] in violation of the city's comprehensive land use plan and accomplished without sufficient evidence to support the zone change."
Also, there seems to have been a violation of the "appearance of fairness doctrine" due to those council members who received the donations and both who moved for and seconded the favourable motion.
He writes "It is discriminatory in that it allows ... special privileges not enjoyed by any other property owner in the area."
Judge Thompson explains, "If an act is illegal, and an act contrary to zoning laws is illegal, then no amount of good intention will make it legal." [editor's note -- That quote, right there, is worthy of a meme! If you can make one, drop me a line below, cause inquiring minds want to know]
He also wrote that he found no evidence of any one being dishonest or self-serving. "There is no indication (the council members) were aware as to who contributed to their campaigns ...."
One must operate under the appearance of fairness.This is quite the blow to those men who paid nearly a quarter million dollars for a property they cannot do anything with. That expenditure in 1978 would be over $833,000 today, according to Inflation Calculator!
21 October 1978
Mansion Case Vital
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
"To disregard solid zoning principles established by years of experience in order to preserve a monument is not solid reasoning ... no amount of good intentions will make it legal," the judge determined.
In effect, the court's findings constitute guidelines city and county officials might be expected to follow hereafter in their consideration of zone changes.
In some respects, this has the appearance of a landmark case, the findings of which undoubtedly will be quoted frequently in zoning deliberations and future court actions involving challenges to zoning decisions.I wonder how this prediction fared. Did this case become a landmark case and was referenced in the 40 years since?
26 October 1978
Re-Hearing on Rezone Sought
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| Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1978 |
Well, folks, it STILL ain't over. It's like the Energizer Bunny, it just keeps going!
Now the City responds with their own boxing gloves -- The Judge has violated his own "appearance of fairness."
The means and methods the city uses in countless other cases is at fault in this one instance? "It seeks clarification on the issues so the city can conform its practices to Thompson's ruling ...."
The city attorney said -- regarding the agreement with the restaurant promoters -- "I'm not sure that there's any city around that uses these same devices. We have a strange system and apparently didn't explain it very well to the judge."
The city contends that "Thompson apparently accepted some testimony and rejected other testimony."
That is quite the boxing match we have here. Wonder what will be the outcome? (said with snarky tongue-in-cheek, since I have knowledge of the future).
20 December 1978
Zone Plea is Rejected by Judge
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| Newspapers.com, Zone Plea is Rejected by Judge, 1978 |
More boxing jabs
"In his argument today, [attorney] Winner accused Judge Thompson of imporperly making the court a 'super-zoner' and taking upon itself zoning decisions which ... only the city is informed enough to make."
The judge "refused to 'clarify' [his ruling], commenting that 'this court has neither the right nor is it this court's office to tell the City Council how to run their business' ... other than making rulings on specific cases properly brought before the court.
1979
5 April 1979
Plan unit eyes zone change
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington, 1979 |
Looks like the story ain't over yet! The Planning Commission is to review an ordinance amendment which would "allow the city's zoning board to issue a special permit for some commercial uses of historic buildings in any zone ... if a public hearing shows the proposed use would be 'in harmony with accepted historic preservation goals and proper community development, and provided reasonable conditions ... imposed to preserve ... the historic building and ... property'."
8 April 1979
Citizens Protest
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| Ronald, 1979 |
Steve Ronald is President of the Citizens for Residential Browne's Addition. He also notes that while the battle may have been won once, the war is far from over. The people feel the City is playing an under-handed tactic in creating rules or policy that would allow them to do what they want, regardless of how the neighborhood feels. "It should be understood that within the proposed ordinance there is no mention of the Clark Mansion or Browne's Addition or anything relating to the previous controversy."
If this goes through, it would impact much more than one restaurant. It would allow banks, boutiques, shops, offices in any residential neighborhood or building deemed "historic." If this be so, then who "in their right minds would want their area classified historic ... [it] would soon be synonymous with a 'commercial district.'"
A hearing was held in February, but did not invite the Citizens. But, there may be another chance 11 April at City Hall.
12 April 1979
Mansion Spurs Study
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1979 |
Are they listening now? The Planning Commission agreed to have a citizens' committee study the proposal allowing commercial use of historical buildings in residential areas.
This particular meeting was about 50/50 pro/con
12 April 1979
Part 1: A 12-member committee
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| Roberts, A 12-member committee, 1979 |
A 12-member committee will be appointed to prepare a zoning ordinance detailing uses permitted for Spokane's historic buildings. The Spokane Plan Commission took that action after failing to reach a decision on a proposal apparently aimed at clearing the way for a restaurant to be operated in the historic Clark Mansion.
Part 2: Mansion Fate to Depend on Panel
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| Roberts, Mansion fate to depend on panel, 1979 |
Quinn ... said his heating bill for the mansion during the winter amounted to $1,100 a month during winter. He contended that without a monetary income from the building he could not long endure such utility costs.
That would amount to over $3900 per month today, according to Inflation Calculator online.
12 July 1979
The commission also unanimously approved
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1979 |
The commission ... unanimously approved a proposed zoning ordinance amendment that would allow some commercial uses in residential zones to make it economically feasible to preserve historical buildings.
The proposed amendment is to go to the City Council for final action Monday night.
If approved, the amendment could open the door for a controversial restaurant in the historic Clark Mansion in Browne's Addition.
14 July 1979
Clark Mansion could get that restaurant after all
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| The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington 1979 |
Is it over yet?
The city zoning board ... unanimously passed an amendment to 'facilitate the preservation of historically and archaeologically important structures.'
20 July 1979
Historic Area Decision Due
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| Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington, 1979 |
City officials acknowledge the zoning amendment, recommended by the Plan Commission, was prompted by controversy over a restaurant proposed for the historic Clark Mansion in Browne's Addition.
Passage of the amendment could open the door for the restaurant, but it, and all other proposed non-conforming uses, would be subject to review by the zoning board.
I just noticed the last paragraph does not fit the article. It belongs to another article. Please disregard.
2 December 1979
Allied Arts Plans Benefit
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| Parsons, Allied Arts Plans Benefit, 1979 |
This benefit event will honor all members of Allied Arts of Spokane, as well as raising funds. Held, of course, at the Clark Mansion.
23 December 1979
Mansion for sale
I didn't include the newspaper ad for this one because I just noticed it said a generic historical mansion was up for sale for $175,000. I'm not absolutely certain it is the Clark mansion, since there are several historic mansions in Spokane.
So. There we go. That is the last half of this decade. We leave the 1970s with the burning question -- What happens to the Clark Mansion now? Does the grandson Geoffrey L. Clark purchase it? Does it go to the local historical society? Do the current owners Anderson and Quinn finally get their restaurant? I just did another newspapers.com search and found not much else.
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Resources
Bakken, J. D. (1978, February 24). Rezoning Idea Criticized. Retrieved January 2020, from Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Bartel, F. (1977, October 6). Clark Mansion to be Sold as Restaurant. Retrieved January 2020, from Spokane Chronicle: newspapers.com
Burnett, T. (1978, March 24). Review Request Disputed by City. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Burnett, T. (1978, August 23). Opening of Diner Delayed. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Burnett, T. (1978, October 19). Clark Mansion Restaurant Plan Reversed. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Campbell, P. D. (1978, January 11). Letter to Editor: Rezoning. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Claussen, K. M. (1978, February 24). Letter to the Editor: Clark Mansion. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Clouse, T. (2019, November 24). Patsy Clark mansion for sale – to the right buyer. Retrieved December 13, 2019, from The Spokesman-Review: https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2019/nov/24/patsy-clark-mansion-for-sale-to-the-right-buyer/
Craig, J. (1978, February 15). City Council Meets While City Snoozes. Retrieved January 2020, from Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Craig, J. (1978, February 25). Spokane City Council Marathon Sessions. Retrieved January 2020, from Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Galloway, P. (1978, February 28). Letter to Editor: Restaurant Objector. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Galloway, R. (1978, January 4). Zone Board Critic. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Galloway, R. (1978, January 9). Letter to Editor: Zoning Board Action Hit. Retrieved January 2020, from Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
James S. Black & Co. (1977, September 25). Clark Mansion, Historical Excellence, for sale. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: newspapers.com
McBride, D. (1978, April 7). Grandson Joins Dispute. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1976, June 28). Clark Mansion Historical Piece parts 1 and 2. Retrieved January 2020 from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1975, November 18). Clark Mansion Landmark Recognized. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1976, November 16). Clark Mansion Will Buy Antiques and Collectibles. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1977, May 4). Clark Mansion Tour is slated on May 15. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1977, July 29). G.O. Larson running for City Council Bio. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1977, December 22). Clark Mansion Seen as Restaurant. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Newspapers.com. (1978, December 20). Clark Mansion Zone Plea is Rejected by Judge. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Parsons, O. J. (1976, September 26). Clark Mansion part of House Tours Stopover. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Parsons, O. J. (1976, August 1). Clark Mansion part of Kirtland Cutter Tour of Homes. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: newspapers.com
Parsons, O. (1979, December 2). Allied Arts Plans Benefit. Retrieved February 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Podobnik, W. M. (1978, April 18). Clark Mansion Letter to Editor. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Roberts, J. (1977, December 22). Zoning for Restaurant. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: newspapers.com
Roberts, J. (1978, February 15). No Mansion Decision. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Roberts, J. (1978, March 1). Restaurant Use Approved. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Roberts, J. (1979, April 13). A 12-member committee. Retrieved February 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Roberts, J. (1979, April 13). Clark Mansion's fate to depend on study panel. Retrieved February 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Ronald, S. (1979, April 8). Citizens Protest. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: Newspapers.com
Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1975, January 30). French Room Elegant. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, May 25). Clark Mansion Liquor Sale Appeal Due. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, August 23). Council Rezone OK Debated. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1979, April 12). Clark Mansion Spurs Study. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1979, July 20). Historic Area Decision Due. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, February 3). Future of Mansion Before City Monday. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, February 7). Council to be Tested. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, February 13). Ruling Due on Mansion. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, February 28). Council Passes Restaurant OK. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle. (1978, March 9). Clark Home Zone Foes Go to Court. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle. (1978, April 8). Clark Relative Leads Drive to Save Home. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle. (1978, October 18). Court Invalidates Restaurant Zoning. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, October 21). Clark Mansion Case Vital. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Spokane Daily Chronicle, Spokane Washington. (1978, October 26). Re-Hearing on Rezone Sought. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1975, September 6). Clark Mansion Items Stolen. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1975, December 1). Clark Mansion In Register. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1976, August 12). Browne's Addition Historical District. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1977, May 1). Clark Mansion Restored to Original Grandeur. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1977, August 5). Clark Mansion 26 room Brick Villa Open for Viewing. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1977, September 4). G.O. Larson runs for City Council. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1977, December 10). Clark Mansion Items to be Sold. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1978, February 8). Clark Mansion Hearing Scheduled on Rezoning Plan. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
The Spokesman=Review, Spokane Washington. (1978, March 10). Mansion issue in court. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1978, April 7). Clark Mansion in Controversy. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1978, May 25). Clark Mansion to Appeal. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1978, December 22). Judge Refuses to Review Decision. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: Newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1979, April 5). Clark Mansion Plan Unit Eyes Zone Change. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington. (1979, July 14). Clark Mansion Could Get that Restaurant After All. Retrieved January 2020, from Newspapers.com: newspapers.com
Young, L. (1975, September 28). Clark Mansion Rich in History. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: newspapers.com
Young, L. (1976, February 11). Clark Mansion Millionaires left legacy to city. Retrieved January 2020, from The Spokesman-Review, Spokane Washington: newspapers.com
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