Memories of Moneta

You wouldn't know by looking at it now, but Moneta used to be a bustling enclave of commerce, development and hope.

The tiny town on O'Brien County's far east border once boasted a population nearing 500 people. Residents there enjoyed all the amenities folks in larger cities took for granted – a movie theater, two car dealerships, grocery stores, gas station, school, bank, pool hall and more.

For Vicky Treimer, Moneta's rise and fall has been a point of curiosity her whole life.

"I was always fascinated by the town," she said. "The history just totally fascinated me, even as a young girl at 6...