Key West was a very different place before it became the famous resort town it is today. This book provides a peek-hole into what island life was like a century ago through the portraits and personal stories of ordinary and mostly forgotten "Conchs"-what native Key Westers call themselves.

The significant historical figures that only passed through the island but are the focus of traditional Key West histories, like Henry Flagler and Ernest Hemingway, are only included in relation to each local's tale.

And every story begins with their World War 1 waterfront security pass. The passes were issued in 1918 by the U.S. Navy, and each has their name, home address, occupation, and a small ID photo. Historical photographs throughout also complement the stories.