Roderick Sprague talked about the original inhabitants of this area, the
Indians, while Suzanne Mykelbust and Mary Reed presented brief histories
of Pullman and Moscow, respectively.
The most interesting part of the evening was the discussion on why Pullman
and Moscow are different in their sense of community. Among the theories:
* Moscow is a county seat, and so had a chance to establish a town identity
distinct from the University.
* Pullman was slower in getting started, and its development was set back by
some disastrous fires and floods.
* UI has always been the top university in Idaho, while WSU has an inferiority
complex because of the University of Washington.
* Pullman's early business leaeders were more parochial, while Moscow's were
more progressive (and aggressive in establishing Moscow as a trading center.)
* Faculty members tend to stay longer at UI, while WSU faculty are always on
the move to a larger university, viewing Pullman as a stepping stone.
* Pullman has a reputation for being more strait-laced, while Moscow has
been more wide open in terms of entertainment and amusements (even before
Idaho allowed drinking at age 19).
These themes will no doubt be continued next Thursday when the discussion
moves to Moscow and the topic shifts to what makes a good community. The
program begins at 7:30 at the Community Center and seating is limited to
about 120. I hope to see you there!
Kenton
I'd welcome responses to the theories outlined above... I hope I've done
justice to the speakers in summarizing them.