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Phoenix in 1943: A Photographic Journey Through Time

In 1943, Phoenix, Arizona, was a rapidly growing city with a population of approximately 107,000 people. The city had developed into a major center for agriculture, with cotton, citrus, and cattle being the main products. During this time, Phoenix was also a major hub for the construction of military training facilities and airfields due to its clear skies and open desert terrain. This led to a significant increase in the city’s population, as many military personnel and defense workers were stationed in the area.

During World War II, Phoenix played an important role in the war effort through the production of war materials and the training of military personnel. The city was home to several military bases, including Williams Airfield and Falcon Field, which were used for training pilots and aircrews. Additionally, the city was home to several factories that produced aircraft parts, ordinance and other military equipment.

Phoenix also experienced a shortage of housing and other resources during this time, as the influx of military personnel and defense workers put a strain on the city’s infrastructure. The government built temporary housing and barracks to accommodate the influx of people. The city also faced shortages of food, gasoline, and other goods. The citizens were encouraged to save resources and to buy war bonds to support the war effort.

Despite the challenges, Phoenix continued to grow and prosper during this time. The city’s economy boomed, and many new businesses and industries were established. The war also brought many new residents to the area, many of whom decided to stay after the war and contribute to the city’s growth and development.

#1 Vehicle and People Outside the Fox Theatre Promoting “Stage Door Canteen”, 1943

#2 Employees in Front of Neil B. McGinnis Co. Building, 1943

#7 U. S. Tires Test Fleet and Drivers in Desert, 1943

#8 U.S. Tires Test Fleet Headquarters Building and Employees, 1943

#9 View looking west down E. Washington St. The Central Hotel (222 1/4 E. Washington) and Betty Maid (120 E. Washington) are visible, 1943

#10 Military Display in the Fox Theatre’s Lobby, 1943

#25 Intersection of E. Van Buren St. and N. Seventh Street, 1943

#28 4100 Block of E. Van Buren Street. View looking west. Thompson’s Auto Court (4100 E. Van Buren) is visible, 1943

#29 Paul Bennett Super Service Station Exterior, 1943

#33 Louis J. Oliger Sheet Metals Building Exterior, 1943

#37 Group in Front of the Service Men’s Lounge, 1943

#38 War Bonds Parade. The parade is moving south on Central Ave. at the intersection of Central Ave. and W. Monroe Street, 1943

#40 Intersection of E. Van Buren St. and N. Seventh Street, 1943

#51 Man, Woman, and Male Salvation Army Scouts on Steps, 1943

#60 Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Company Employees, 1943

Written by Aung Budhh

Husband + Father + librarian + Poet + Traveler + Proud Buddhist. I love you with the breath, the smiles and the tears of all my life.

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