Pearl

There's not left of Pearl - just a grain elevator surrounded by some nice farms and plentiful cattle. 

This excellent article by Amy Feigley of the Dickinson County Historical Society tells the history of the town, its beginnings in the 1860s and 1870s, its early prosperity, and its slow decline. This paper by Ethan Riggs provides more information, along with old photos. 

It's a sobering reminder that all human toil ultimately ends up the same way, but also a testament to the good things that can happen in the meantime.