The town of Spangle, WA is a small, close-knit rural town in southern Spokane county (18 miles south of Spokane), along Highway 195. Settled in 1872 and named after Civil War veteran William Spangle, the town has a current population of roughly 300 people. Known as “The Gateway to the Palouse”, Spangle is surrounded by beautiful, rolling farmland and open skies. Agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy, with wheat, legumes, and other dryland crops dominating the landscape. Many families have farmed the region for generations, and even those who’ve moved to nearby towns still proudly call Spangle “home,” reflecting the deep roots and lasting connections that define the community.

 

     For the outdoor enthusiast, Spangle offers quick access to some of Eastern Washington’s best recreation.  More than ten lakes lie within a 25‑mile radius, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The Spokane region also offers miles of hiking and biking trails, abundant wildlife viewing, hunting areas, and excellent camping. Within a 2.5-hour drive, there are five ski mountains—Mt. Spokane, 49° North, Silver Mountain, Schweitzer Mountain and Lookout Pass—providing downhill skiing, snowboarding, and a full range of winter recreation.

 

     The Spangle business community includes two gas stations (Spangle Foods & JMT Petroleum), two restaurants (The Harvester and Spangle Saloon & Grill), grain elevators, an auto shop, gift shop, autobody shop, bank, custom welding shop and a post office. The Harvester restaurant is a popular regional landmark offering classic comfort food and drawing visitors from across Spokane County. With a strong reputation for hearty meals and friendly service, it’s one of Spangle’s most recognizable establishments. Bill’s Service, a long‑standing auto shop, is noted for dependable automotive work and small‑town customer care.

 

     Spangle High School graduated its first class in 1908 and it’s final class in 1960, when the Liberty Consolidated School District was formed.  The new district brought together students from Spangle and the neighboring communities of Plaza, Fairfield, Mount Hope, Latah, and Waverly.  Today, Liberty is a Class “B” school serving approximately 450 students across grades K-12. 

Upper Columbia Academy (UCA) is a Seventh‑day Adventist boarding high school located two miles southeast of Spangle. Right next door is Upper Columbia Academy Elementary School (K–8).  The campus contributes significantly to community life—bringing students, families, and events that add to the town’s small‑town character.

 

     Additionally, the town has an active community service club that hosts several activities, including twice‑weekly senior meals that serve as both a warm social gathering and a helpful resource for those in need.

 

     Each spring, the town comes together for Spangle Days, a festive celebration featuring a parade and family activities. And when summer arrives, the Fourth of July fireworks are quite impressive. 

 

     Spangle is a town shaped by heritage, hospitality, and genuine community spirit. Whether sharing a meal at the Harvester, cheering on the Liberty Lancers, or gathering at Spangle Community Christian Church, neighbors show up for one another, creating a place that feels both grounded and welcoming.