Once described as the "wonder city" due to its rapid growth in the early 20th century, West Memphis reached a pinnacle of economic progress during the period from the Great Depression until the postwar era. Providing a gateway to the west of the Mississippi River, the city has evolved from uncultivated hardwood forests into one of the most traveled intersections in the United States. West Memphis has also been instrumental in launching the careers of famous young musicians, including B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Howlin' Wolf, and Elvis Presley. Images of America: West Memphis features over 190 unique images covering the lifespan of the city from the years prior to its inception through the mid-1970s.