Book excerpt: Begun in the seventeenth century as a small settlement nestled along the Elizabeth River, Norfolk had grown into a vibrant port city by the Revolutionary War. The city spread out from early neighborhoods like the Freemason District into nineteenth-century enclaves like Ghent along the Hague. Twentieth-century Norfolk was marked by its development into a bustling Navy town. Journey through the vibrant past of this multifaceted locale, guided by expert authors from local museums, historical organizations and city institutions. Walk the city's most historic neighborhoods and learn the history of its beachside communities. End with suggestions of places to eat and play that evoke traces of Norfolk's past. Crack open these pages to learn that Virginia is truly for history lovers.