I believe the orphan trains were a significant event in American history. Not only did the trains impact the lives of upwards of 200,000 children and their descendants, it also impacted our social welfare system. As you study the orphan trains, study as well the living conditions of the time and consider the options available for homeless children. Then decide: Were the orphan trains an appropriate response? Each orphan train rider's story is moving and interesting, but it is important to consider the entire picture.

I wish you well in your studies. Your new website and slide shows are most impressive!

Andrea Warren
Author of two nonfiction books on the orphan trains: Orphan Train Rider: One Boy's True Story; and We Rode the Orphan Trains