Orphan Train Movement

The Orphan Train Movement was a social initiative in the United States from the 1850s to the early 20th century, aimed at relocating orphaned, abandoned, or neglected children from urban areas to rural homes. Volunteers organized trains to transport these children to towns where families were willing to adopt or foster them. The movement sought to provide children with better living conditions and more stability, while helping rural communities address labor shortages. Although well-intentioned, it often lacked proper oversight, leading to varied experiences for the children.