This visual history containing over 200 vintage postcards relives major events in Asheville's past--from the coming of the railroad in 1850 until America's entry into World War I in 1917. In this time of unprecedented growth, the coming of the railroad made Asheville accessible to those searching for clean air and the beauty and peace of the mountains. Combined with an emphasis on cultural and social life, the area's fresh mountain living proved to be a healer of body, mind, and soul. Soon after the railroad arrived, Asheville became the home of the first world-renowned resort hotel in the South. Within these pages unfolds a little-known anecdote concerning Col. Frank Coxe and the amazing sweep of real estate owned by his ancestors. We learn how such a simple thing as a misplaced reservation became the catalyst for the building of the fabulous Battery Park Hotel. Readers also see the impact of George W. Vanderbilt, E. W. Grove, and other entrepreneurs who lovingly carved their imprint on this city.