Along a line, known as Highway 61, in deep southern Alberta, eerie cries from crisp prairie winds can be heard, mournful reminders of early 20th century attempts of rural prosperity. Long-forgotten towns include Skiff, Legend, Bingham, Nemiskam, Altorado and Pakowki. But a few still hold on - Wrentham, Etzikom and Orion.

The latter was born in 1916, and two years later, following steady, copious rain and a plentiful crop yield, the population grew to 150, with a main street boasting three general stores, an hotel, bank, blacksmith, and cafe.

But then came a decade of drought, dust storms and grasshoppers. Orion struggled on, even until today as the tiny hamlet still has seven residents.

But there are streets of empty homes and buildings. In recent years, Orion's grain elevators have been leveled, adding one more nail to the community's coffin.