Orphan Train lecture at The Museum Church

Al and David Eicher, while doing research on the History of Oxford, Michigan, found evidence of the Orphan Train coming to Michigan. From a period starting in 1854 to 1927 approximately 12,500 orphans were placed in Michigan, many coming from the New York Children’s Aid Society. The lecture and 100 or more old photos present the early formation of the Orphan Train, the collecting of children from various orphanages, the story of the orphan train agents and nurses, plus “The Placement” process. The first placement of Orphan Train Riders in the United States occurred at Dowagiac, Michigan on a Sunday morning in September of 1854. Come ride with us on the “Baby Train”, across the state, traveling the route of the Michigan Central Railroad.

Free for members, $10 for non-members.
Memberships can be purchased online at our website.

Memberships will also be sold 30 minutes before the lecture, with prices beginning at just $35 for an individual yearly membership or $50 for a family.

Don't miss out on this great lecture by some of the most respected lecturers in the area.