Post Falls is a small city in the northwest located along the Spokane River and right next to a beautiful water fall. It thrives on tourism and in general neighborly charm and charisma. This is a place for families to grow and friendships to prosper. Not only is it a charming little city, but it is also one of the most beautiful areas in all of America. With four seasons each year there are tons of things to do, such as canoeing on the Spokane River in the summer, or going skiing in the winter. However this little paradise owes its existence to Frederick Post and his lumber mill.
Frederick Post was born on September 16, 1821 in a small town in Germany. Two years after marrying, he decided to go to America. At first he and his family moved to Illinois where he immediately put his knowledge of millwright to use. He put dams on three rivers, one with a grist mill, one with a lumber mill, and the last with a limestone quarry. After the railroad relocated, he traveled to San Francisco and Portland. Nonetheless he finally settled in the northwest and built three houses for his family in present day Rathdrum, Post Falls, and Spokane. He was respectful to the Indians of the area, which soon led to a pact and deal between them for the use of the river’s water power.
In 1871, Frederick Post went to Moses Seltice, a member of the Coeur d’ Alene Indians, and together they negotiated an agreement ensuring Frederick the use of water power at the “little falls” on the Spokane River. The transaction supposedly took place at “treaty rock” in Post Falls, but there is little evidence guaranteeing this. The only evidence is Frederick Post’s signature on the rock which reads “June 1, 1871, Frederick Post”. There are also some Indian pictographs depicting the alleged treaty. Post then purchased the land from the Indians for $500 and built his mill.
Post did not return to his mill in Post falls until 1879, due to the growing need for lumber and grist mills in other areas, such as Spokane. Once up and running, his mill was said to have been the first and the finest sawmill in all of Kootenai County. Lumber came from all over by horse, rail, and even tugboat. He did eventually sell his lumber mill to the Spokane and Idaho lumber company in 1894, after 15 years of operation. In addition to his lumber mill, Post also set up a water system for the town and built a three story hotel. He himself described the town as “truly an American town.”
Post Falls, the mere definition of an American town. Even declared so by its founder, is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy life. This American town, although small, is located in a beautiful valley along a gorgeous river. With friendly citizens and remarkable seasons, this is the place to live. Founded by a man of true character, Post Falls has a rich history worth learning. This town owes its prosperity to the grace of God and the courage of man.
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