Lateral field emission devices ("FEDs") for display elements and methods of fabrication are set forth. The FED includes a thin-film emitter oriented parallel to, and disposed above, a substrate. The FED further includes a columnar shaped anode having a first lateral surface. A phosphor layer is disposed adjacent to the first lateral surface. Specifically, the anode is oriented such that the lateral surface and adjacent phosphor layer are perpendicular to the substrate. The emitter has a tip which is spaced less than the mean free distance of an electron in air from the phosphor layer. Operationally, when a voltage potential is applied between said anode and said emitter, electrons are emitted from the tip of the emitter into the phosphor layer causing the phosphor layer to emit electromagnetic energy. Further specific details of the field emission device, fabrication method, method of operation, and associated display are set forth.