This big little city was only founded during the Second World War, but today is one of the fastest-growing communities in the nation. Located five miles southeast of Las Vegas this desert community had the honor of being called a “city of destiny” by President John F. Kennedy.

The city was the result of America’s efforts to be the arsenal of democracy, and it was home to the Basic Magnesium Plant, which supplied the United States War Department much of its magnesium for munitions and airplane parts. With the coming of peace in 1945, the city could have faded away like many other temporary communities that were built to support the war effort. But in 1947 the Colorado River Commission of Nevada purchased the wartime industrial plants for civil use. And instead of fading into the desert, the town thrived.

In 1953 the city was officially incorporated, and at the time had a population under 10,000. Today Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada, and it is often described as one with small town values but big city efficiencies. It is home today to a number of casino resorts, and offers a relaxed attitude that many find missing in the hustle and bustle of nearby Las Vegas.