Monowi
Population: 1
State: Nebraska
County: Boyd County
Founded: 1902
Abandoned: 2023 (one resident remains)
Peak Population: 150
Monowi is the only incorporated municipality in the United States with a single resident. Elsie Eiler serves as mayor, clerk, treasurer, librarian, and bartender of the Monowi Tavern. She also grants herself a liquor license and pays taxes to herself. Her husband Rudy died in 2004, leaving her alone.
One-Woman Town
Elsie Eiler runs the tavern that her husband once owned. She operates the 5,000-book Rudy's Library as a tribute to him.
Civic Duties
As the only resident, Elsie holds all municipal offices. She approves her own liquor license and files reports to the state.
Timeline
- 1902 - Founded Railroad brought settlers
- 1930s - Peak Population around 150
- 2000 - Population: 2 Only Elsie and Rudy remained
- 2004 - Population: 1 Rudy died
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Only incorporated U.S. town with population of 1
- Rudy's Library has 5,000 books
- Elsie grants her own liquor license
Location
Address: Monowi, Nebraska
Coordinates: 42.8311, -98.3314