Part 3/7:
Marshall is where the exploration begins, characterized by wide streets built to accommodate horse teams making U-turns. Once a vibrant community, Marshall peaked in 1930 with a population of 695. Currently, that number has plummeted to around 200. As the town struggles with decay, remnants of its past—a saloon, café, hotel, and even law offices—linger.
Despite its decline, Marshall reports a surprisingly decent median household income of around $58,183, but the overall poverty rate hovers at 21.1%, significantly higher among school-age children. Most buildings stand abandoned, with only a handful of homes salvageable. It's a stark reminder of the economic challenges facing many rural towns.