Downtown Phoenix (Images of America)

It was exactly what I wanted. I am interested in the history of Phoenix, and it is helpful to see what the town looked like, physically, in the past.

Pictures are wonderful brings back memories. Born and raised in Phoenix.

Again I ordered this book for my adult son who likes historical books on the way cities and houses used to be. He was very pleased with it.

Great for local history buffs or anyone who grew up locally and remembers the old Phoenix.

I have to admit that I follow J. Seth Anderson's blog and am familiar with his writing. As such, I was incredibly excited to read this. First, the images in this book are amazing. I imagine he had to go to great lengths and do a ton of research to find these pictures. I used to live in Downtown Phoenix, right by the Hotel San Carlos, the Rialto and Orpheum Theatres (pages 44, 47 and 117) actually, and I feel my heart flutter when I see those pictures. Everything is so different now, but it's so cool to see what it used to look like in the 1920s! I can imagine exactly where those photos were taken, even though the surroundings have completely changed. And, oh my gosh! HANNY'S! Hanny's (pg 59) is my favorite bar ever! I celebrated my graduation from Arizona State University there! This book just goes to show that Phoenix is not a boring city with no history. It has been vibrant and alive for a long time, and I love that this book makes me feel so connected to the past. Incidentally, page 124 makes me feel connected to my old home, like I'm walking home from Carly's or the lightrail. I miss Phoenix so much! When the rhythm of my shoes leads me back to the States, I am definitely settling (back) in right in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. Thanks for a great book!