There’s an online forum about my hometown, and it’s dotted with stories about structures and businesses that used to be located there, but which burned down decades ago. Their glory is emblazoned in our memories, and their absence leaves an ash-gray void.

Across the prairie, in another town in another county, there are sad counterparts that have withered into obsolescence. Abandoned schools with sagging roofs and broken windows. Once-grand theaters with darkened, dirty, faded marquees. Outdated restaurants with only dim reminders of their heyday.