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Rockford: 1920 and Beyond (IL) (Postcard History Series)
Rockford 1920 and Beyond - IL - Postcard History Series Author:Eric A. Johnson Rockford’s economic boom of the early twentieth century continued into the Roaring Twenties, when Rockford’s newly-erected skyscrapers symbolized the city’s “sky’s the limit” ambitions. But the good times came to a crashing halt with the arrival of the Great Depression in October 1929. With its longstanding blue collar industrial roots, Rockford... more » would enjoy renewed and even greater prosperity as it readily capitalized on the World War II war effort and the post-war economic boom years. With a collection of nearly 240 vintage postcards, Rockford: 1920 and Beyond captures this dynamic, ever-changing era as Rockford transformed into “Illinois’ Second City.” Inside, see now-familiar skyscrapers like the Rockford News Tower, Talcott Building, and Faust Hotel enliven Rockford’s downtown skyline. Take a nostalgic trip to the Blackhawk Park Zoo and the Central Park and Kiddieland amusement parks. Watch post-war “car culture” change the face of the city with its drive-ins, shopping centers, and expressways. Witness the World War II revival of Rockford’s storied Camp Grant. See the famed Wagon Wheel Resort in its high-flying, star-studded Hollywood heydays. Marvel at the destructive power of Rockford’s deadly “Cyclone of ’28.”« less