County rejects Liberty Lake music festival; Glee club moves to the West
Back in 1976, the organizers behind a large rock festival near Liberty Lake were met with disappointment as the county commissioners turned down their permit. A lawyer representing the promoters expressed their frustration with the decision by sarcastically mentioning Spokane’s recent designation as an “All-American City,” implying that the attitudes there were not as welcoming to their festival. This led the promoters, who were based in Lewiston, to consider moving the event to a different state as they believed Washington’s Outdoor Festival Law was overly restrictive. The promoters had anticipated a crowd of 60,000 people, but the county’s concern was that it did not have enough deputies to ensure security for such a massive event.
Fast forward to 1926, where about 30 members of the Washington State College Glee Club found themselves escaping a hotel fire in Mount Vernon through makeshift means such as ropes, torn sheets, and ladders. Initially dismissing the cry of “Fire!” as a joke, the Glee Club members quickly realized the seriousness of the situation once smoke began filling the halls. Luckily, they all managed to evacuate the building safely. Professor F.C. Butterfield, who was in charge of the Glee Club, was the last to exit the burning hotel. Despite losing their clothes in the fire, the members carried on with their concert in Bellingham that evening, dressed in “overalls, new and shiny.” Two of the singers were hailed heroes for rescuing two women from the blaze, and the entire group received a standing ovation.
Although separated by decades, both events showcase the resilience and determination of the people involved. In the face of setbacks and challenges, whether from bureaucratic hurdles or literal flames, these individuals were able to adapt, overcome, and carry on with their goals. The Liberty Lake music festival promoters’ plans may have been thwarted, but their resolve remained strong as they sought alternative paths to bring their vision to life. Similarly, the Glee Club members’ quick thinking and bravery in the face of danger exemplify the spirit of camaraderie and unity that helped them overcome a potentially catastrophic event.
These two historical events serve as reminders of the importance of tenacity, adaptability, and teamwork in navigating obstacles and unexpected situations. Whether facing bureaucratic resistance or literal fires, these stories highlight the power of perseverance and collective effort in achieving desired outcomes. The Liberty Lake music festival promoters and the Washington State College Glee Club members may have faced different challenges, but their shared resilience and determination ultimately allowed them to emerge stronger and more united in the face of adversity.