Clarke, Charles W., 1848-1940

Charles W. Clarke came to Spokane Falls from Kentucky with his brother, Robert, in 1884. He purchased land eight miles from Spokane Falls, cleared it, and constructed a residence. Clarke farmed and operated a mortgage business in Spokane Falls. He moved to Post Falls, Idaho in 1890 and occupied himself with the commercial development of that area. Returning to Spokane in 1895, he served in the County Assessor's office and then in the real estate firm of Cook and Clarke. Other business interests included the Drumheller Development Company, the Ribbon Cliff Fruit Company, and the Columbia View Farm. Clarke had a lifelong interest in literature, drama, and poetry, and contributed articles to Overland Monthly, Godey's Lady's Book, and the Youth's Companion .

From the guide to the Charles Woodruff Clarke Papers, 1866-1933, (Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture/Eastern Washington State Historical Society Joel E. Ferris Research Library and Archives)