This fascinating selection of more than 200 archive photographs shows the ways in which King"s Heath has developed over the decades from the remote, rural origins that inspired its name into a thriving suburb of Birmingham. Beginning at the center of the town, passing along the main streets and ending at Queens Bridge, the book focuses on the area at the very heart of the change. Contrasting contemporary and vintage photographs, the book provides a vital record of vanished buildings, from Mr. Parke"s Pantry to the Cross Guns pub—known for its ornamental pear tree—to the ill-fated Saint Dunstan"s church that was reduced to rubble by German bombers. Providing a rare insight into education, religion, and drama at the Institute and literacy at the library financed by Scottish billionaire Andrew Carnegie, this study explores every aspect of daily life in the town.