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From the prehistoric Native Americans to the first wave of pioneers in 1877 and all who came later, the desert lands east of Phoenix have been a rich and fertile home to a wide diversity of people. Surmounting the early challenges of settling the mesa top and moving water uphill gave rise to a resilient agricultural community famous for cotton, citrus, grapes, and other crops. The boom years that began in the 1950s ushered in a new wave of industry and change to the city of Mesa. Large corporations created jobs, new freeways formed a corridor into the heart of the community, educational and health care facilities improved and expanded, and the advent of air conditioning brought tourists from all over the world. Now boasting a population of over 450,000, Mesa has truly evolved from its pioneer beginnings to a modern city in the Valley of the Sun.

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 21, 2008

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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
50 reviews
June 24, 2010
Very interesting read! I've seen these books for just about every city in the U.S. Thought I might as well read the book about the place I've spent most of my life. Very enjoyable and easy read since it is primarily a history through photographs. Learned so much about this place I was born and raised. Would definitely recommend it for anyone living in Mesa, or check out the book for YOUR city.
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719 reviews4 followers
November 4, 2015
I think maybe I enjoy history much more than I thought I did. I quite enjoyed learning how my current home town was founded and progressed through the years. I also enjoyed the photos. It's cool to see how things looked back then vs now. Some of the buildings are still standing and recognizable. It too was most interesting learning how those crazy peeps survived without A\C. Let's just say there was a lot of damp sheets hung in doorways and windows.
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