Orphan Trains - Family History & Genealogy Message Board

New York Foundling "Homecoming"

lugoeke — 19 Nov 2008 3:14:55 GMT

Dear Friend,

From the waifs of 1869 to the children of 2008 – from the early riders of the Orphan Trains to the children adopted from within the corridors of our headquarters - The New York Foundling, one of America’s oldest and largest child welfare agencies, has opened its doors to children in need while upholding our founding principle through our programs and services for children and families: Abandon No One.

In October 2008, we launched our 140th year of service with a call for all those adoptees and their families, former foster children, former staff members and volunteers, Orphan Train riders and the families who cared for them – from across America – to “call home” by logging onto our website and sharing their personal stories. Our efforts will culminate with a “Homecoming” that will create, out of thousands of threads, a tapestry – a community of people who have at least one thing in common – a personal link to The New York Foundling.

We are asking that you consider the enclosed “Call for Foundlings” for publication in the materials you produce. With your help in sharing this information with your network, we hope to add to our treasury rich and compelling personal stories that are part of the foundation of The Foundling’s 140 year history.

We believe that your participation will serve as crucial bedrock in our efforts to reach these members of the extended Foundling family.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss this further, please call us at 212-886-4043.

Thank you in advance for your kind consideration.

Warm regards,

Bill Baccaglini
Executive Director

NATIONWIDE “HOMECOMING” DRIVE TO LOCATE AND BRING TOGETHER ADOPTEES, FORMER FOSTER CHILDREN AND THOSE WHO CARED FOR THEM

Historic child welfare agency plans “homecoming” event and builds online community at www.nyfoundling.org

(New York, NY – November 11, 2008) – Thousands of adoptees, former foster children and those who cared for them, divided by generations and scattered across the country, will have a unique opportunity to come together as The New York Foundling, one of America’s oldest and largest child welfare agencies, organizes a “homecoming” for all those connected with The Foundling’s 140 year history.

Founded by the Sisters of Charity in 1869, The Foundling has launched its 140th year of service by asking that anyone with a story of connection to the agency share those pieces of their lives at www.nyfoundling.org. The goal is to build a “virtual family room” - an online network of connection where history will come alive through the stories of people The Foundling has helped to save - a place where they can forge new relationships with countless others who share the same past – a history that links back to The Foundling.

Next year’s “homecoming” in New York and the virtual community of Foundling alumni being created in advance of that event, will be part of The Foundling’s 140th anniversary celebration. From its early days, when desperate mothers left their babies in a bassinette outside the front door of what was then called The Foundling Asylum, to the era of the “Orphan Trains,” when children traveled by train to the future homes of their adoptive families – The New York Foundling, which was also previously called The Foundling Hospital, has evolved into a major child welfare provider with a diverse range of services and has lived up to its simple motto: “Abandon No One.”

“This homecoming is more than merely a plan to unite people physically in one place – although that is an important part of it,” said Bill Baccaglini, The Foundling’s Executive Director. “We are also creating an online community, where people who have been connected personally or through their families to The Foundling over the years can join with others and share their common experiences.”

Information about the homecoming and the online community can be found at www.nyfoundling.org. All those who visit the site will have the opportunity to share their stories of connection publicly through a wide variety of online content that The Foundling will help to produce.

On October 9 - 12, 2009, The Foundling is planning a weekend in New York City where alumni will trace the agency’s history firsthand through its astounding collection of archival materials, experience The Foundling as it is today - a broadly expanded network of social services programs, and forge relationships with each other that can continue to grow through The Foundling’s online communities.

The Foundling is also inviting doctors and nurses trained through its programs, volunteers, relatives of foundlings, and anyone else with a New York Foundling story to share, to visit www.nyfoundling.org.

About The New York Foundling

Founded as a home for abandoned children, The New York Foundling has been saving children, preserving families and building communities since 1869. The agency helps children, youth and adults in need through advocacy and through preventive and in-care services that help each individual reach his or her potential. In the tradition of openness and compassion of its sponsors, the Sisters of Charity, the agency touches the lives of more than 13,000 people each year in the New York City area and in Puerto Rico as it upholds its guiding principle:Abandon No One.www.nyfoundling.org.

New York Foundling
New York City, NY
212-886-4002
© 2008 New York Foundling All rights reserved.

1880 census for New York Juvenile Asylum and House of Reception

sharpchick13 — 14 Nov 2008 3:01:45 GMT

Some of these kids rode the orphan trains.

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilsgs/1880ny84.html

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilsgs/1880189.html

Orphan Trains to Hillsboro, IL, 1895

GenieBee111 — 26 Sep 2006 2:51:37 GMT

Orphan Train/Great Grandmother/Lawler, IA

Richard C. Fisher — 18 Apr 2003 10:42:46 GMT

My sister recently found that our great grandmother's maiden name was Marietta Axtell and that she was an orphan who had traveled the orphan trains from New York City to Lawler, IA. We do not know the date of birth for her or any other details. My aunt her recently passed on, had always indicated that my father's mother had been on the orphan trains and she though her last name was Axtell. I have found in the listings of riders who came off of the train in Lawler, IA (my father's place of birth) a Marietta Axtell, who I assume is my great grandmother. My aunt also named one of her chidlren Marietta, so I believe that is the connection. Was wondering about any further information as to what year she rode the train and others,

Nellie McNutt or Nuttly from New York to Lawler, IA

MaryinSD — 11 Oct 2008 5:20:13 GMT

We are searching for more information about Nellie Nuttly (or McNutt) born 30 Oct 1872 New York, arrived sometime in the 1880's to Lawler and was adopted by Charles and Mary McBride. Thank you for your help, Mary

Children of Orphan trains from Ny to Illinois will do lookups

sally — 17 Jul 2003 9:53:11 GMT

I just bought the book"Children of orphan trains from New York to Illinois and beyond" it has a listing of children and where they were placed. I would be glad to do lookups for anyone.
sally@cavenet.com

TINKER

Jeri_Arbuckle — 20 Aug 2008 5:33:39 GMT

LOOKING FOR TWIN BROTHERS LAST NAME TINKER,WILLIAM HENERY & BELIVE THE OTHER NAME WAS WILLARD? THEY WERE BORN IN 3 DEC. 1880,IN GATEWOOD,MO. THEIR MOTHER DIED SHORTLY THERE AFTER.
THEY SENT TO A ORPHANGE AND HAS HEARD THET WILLIAM WAS ADOPTED BY A FAMILY NAMED BENNETT. WILLARD? DIED FROM THE FLU IN ABOUT 1889, HE WAS ABOUT NINE.THEIR MOTHER AND FATHER WAS W.H.TINKER &TENNESSE TINKER NORMAN. HAVE SEARCHED EVERYWHERE I CAN FIND. WOULD LOVE ANY HELP I COULD GET.

Orphan train rider Wellington Zanzinger

tom_pender — 8 Sep 2001 9:10:12 GMT

Wellington Zanzinger (his birth name) was born in New York City on April 29, 1917. He rode an orphan train, sponsored by the Children's Aid Society, to Maquoketa, Iowa, in October, 1919. I am seeking information on his birth family.

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

kmhwilk — 3 Jun 2008 3:24:53 GMT

I want to thank all of you who have posted messages and replies on this board. Reading your thoughts and advice before starting my own searcy gave me hope and direction.
I recently received three photo copied pages from the Records Office of the New York Foundling Hospital. They confirm that my grandfather Joseph Dernier Kearney was an orphan train rider - at the age of four.

The pages raised many more questions for me, so I called Yvonne Wintz at the Records Office. Though she was extremely pleasant, she wasn't knowledgeable about the records themselves and what certain notations might mean.

If you have any experience with such records or have knowledge of the Foundling Hospital procedures in keeping child records in the late 1800s to early 1900s, I would love to hear from you.

Orphan Train Rider?

pbrasseaux — 17 Apr 2003 12:52:39 GMT

I am looking for My Son's Grandfather's Birth Family. He may have ridden on the Orphan Train from New York down to Texas. He was born on Nov.11, 1922. He was adopted out of The Texas Children's Home and Aid Society in Fort Worth, Texas in 1925. It was later known as The Edna Gladney Home. His Adopted Family's name was S.A. and Lucille Duke. If anyone has any info, please help us find his real Birth Family. He was given the name of Clark Roscoe Duke. Thanks Paula Brasseaux

NY Foundling to Louisiana

pseiler119 — 6 May 2008 2:24:04 GMT

Mary Louise GAUNYA/GONYEA/GAGNE'(& assoc. spellings) was adopted by John and Mary Elizabeth (McEnroe) Ponder of New Orleans. Name changed to May Ponder. The connection probably had to do with the fact that their daughter Agnes was a social worker for Catholic Charities (the 1st in N.O.) and had many contacts in the orphanage & adoption community. May was originally adopted by the MORVANT family in Louisiana. At some point after a few years she was returned by a Morvant male with a different first name than the one who adopted her. There were many yellow fever epidemics at this time & May did claim that as a young child she had survived a bout with yellow fever. Speculation is that perhaps her original adoptive parents did not survive, and their relatives were not willing to raise a child not of their blood. Trybing to find any info on MORVANTS adopting NY Founding children in Louisiana.

Orphan Trains

DShiner53 — 29 Apr 2008 11:06:15 GMT

I have read that the trains went to the East Coast. Do you know if they came to Massachusetts?
Thanks

DEC 25, SAME BIRTH DATE RE-ASSIGNED TO ALL BY TEXAS ORPHANAGE

R1b1c10 — 27 Apr 2008 11:18:00 GMT

I am following a difficult paper trail back through my paternal grandfather, Edwin James Hays (1902-1980). He and his little sister (Erma or Irma) were Orphan Train Riders according to a recently opened family journal. Their father was George Dillard Hays, who was born in Co. Cork Ireland between 1857 & 1860, and came to New York, via Queenstown, Ireland while in his mid-twenties. George Dillard Hays married Lelah Alice Mitchell of Illinois (Daughter of James W. Mitchell. James W. Mitchell was born 1830). Both George Dillard Hays & Lelah Alice (Mitchell) Hays were born somewhere between 1857 & 1860. Their son (my grandfather) Edwin died in Mesa, Maricopa, Arizona in 1980. A Texas orphanage, that my grandfather spent his teen years in, re-assigned the same birth date to every orphan under their conservatorship including my grandfather... 25 December) and his last name was later changed from Hays to Hayes.

If you have access to any information regarding my grandfather Edwin, his little sister Irma, or their parents, George Dillard Hays and Lelah Alice (Mitchell Hays), PLEASE let me know.

Thank you!
From the Hays Family Camp
H.R1b1c@gmail.com

Langer/Lange

carolchanVA — 11 Apr 2008 3:32:41 GMT

Orphan--Born 1890 Leipzig He said his name was Maxwell Langer and that he changed it to Fred Lange. We don't know if that was a birth name or adopted name.We don't know if he rode the Orphan Train.He only told us he had been an orphan.
The only info we have is the below marriage certificate from NY.

Max Fred Lange
Born in: Leipzig, Sachsen
Son of: Joseph Lange and Anna gab Plewnia

Freida Wilhelmine Kuhlmann
Born in: Verden Hanover
Daughter of: Henirick(?) Friedrich Kuhlmann and Meta Margaretha gab Brand

on 14th Feb 1915.

Witnesses: (?)
Frieda Glenewinkel and Ernest Bohn

First orphan train 1854

CURLM — 30 Nov 2005 9:54:53 GMT

Does anyone know why the first orphan train in 1854 came to Dowagiac, Michigan? It seems an unusual location. Also is there a list somewhere of the names of the children who were on that first train? I can be reached at SRBTeach@aol.com.

Gale/Gayle-Robinson or Robertson-? Pennsylvania

Champlain9 — 24 Mar 2008 9:37:50 GMT

I need some help as I have hit a complete brick wall.

I have been searching for Gale/Gayle for some time now, apparently he was raised in an orphanage in Pennsylvania and served in the US army in the UK in 1944.

He was a coal miner prior to enlisting into the army which would have possibly been prior to WW2. His name has been spelt differently, he may have served in the 82nd airborne division, not 100% sure.

This is all the information I have, and would appreciate any help please.

Regards

Janice

please reply

theresarobin — 31 Jul 2007 9:46:11 GMT

looking for information on antonina marretta,born 1883sicily.my no-na,please help.cousin Theresa
Came to u.s.1907,

Baby Girl was left on Lahue's doorstep - 1914, Benton Co., Iowa

xd22577 — 3 Mar 2008 5:52:59 GMT

Hi, I'm not sure if this is the right spot to post this, but I figured it might be of some help to someone.
I don't know what happened to the little girl, Imogene, 5yrs on 1920 census with William and Clara LaHue, in Vinton, Benton County, IA, but I can't find anyone in the 1930 census.

- I found these 2 articles on this site: http://crpubliclibrary.newspaperarchive.com/AdvanceSearch.as...

The Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette
Friday, July 3, 1914
page 5, column 3
BABY GIRL WAS LEFT ON LAHUE’S DOORSTEP
WILL BE WELCOME IN HER NEW HOME
Believed Passenger from a night train deserted handsome infant – clue to man’s Identity
Special to the Gazette
Vinton, Iowa, July 3 – Some unknown person left a pretty two-months old baby girl at the door of Mr. and Mrs. William LAHUE in West Vinton about 1:15 o’clock yesterday morning. The LAHUEs were aroused by the visitor and at once notified Marshal BURKE. While the parentage of the little girl is unknown the LAHUEs and the police authorities feel quite certain they know who the man is who left the baby and believe he came into Vinton on one of the night trains. The “l” s perfectly healthy and normal and is welcome at the LAHUE home, but for the sake of the child in future years they would be glad to be advised of its parentage, so that it would not have to go through the world as a foundling,

The Cedar Rapids Daily Republican
Saturday, July 4, 1914
Page 8, column 3
MR. LAHUE HAS A BABY
Says He is More Pleased Than if He Had Found a Thousand Dollars
Vinton, July 3, Special: - William LAHUE, a well known resident of West Vinton, was awakened at about 2 o’clock last night by a baby crying. There has not been a baby in the LAHUE family for nearly twenty years and Mr. LAHUE was naturally surprised. He started to investigate and discovered a three month old baby girl wrapped in a blanket with two bottles of milk by its side, lying on his front steps. There were no marks of any kind on the clothing to show to whom it belonged. Mrs. LAHUE at once took the little stranger in charge and announced that it had found a home for life. Mr. LAHUE is about the happiest man in Vinton. He says that if anyone had left a thousand dollar bill on his doorsteps instead of the baby he would not be half as pleased. There is no clue as to where the baby came from. Officer SMETZER reports that he noticed a strange man get off from one of the night trains with a bundle that might have been a baby. Officer WADDLE noticed two women carrying a bundle in the down town section about midnight. Their actions were suspicious but they disappeared before he could question them.

Herbert LeRoy Wood orphaned about 1880

lequia — 6 Jul 2001 3:18:05 GMT

Herbert/Bert LeRoy Wood was orphaned abt. 1880 when his parents died of the flu. I believe that he and his siblings may have ridden the Orphan Train to Missouri abt. 1882-84 although I'm not sure. He may have come to Missouri alone. He told his children that his siblings were all divided up and he never was able to find any of them. I would like to find them. Do you have an orphan whose last name is Wood/Woods. Please E-mail if you do. lequia@elite.net

Pennsylvania Orphanages 1920 to 1940

Champlain99 — 1 Feb 2008 10:38:11 GMT

I need some help please as I live in the UK and I am searching for someone who was in an orphanage in Pennsylvania around 1920 to 1940.

I need a list of the orphanages in Pennsylvania if possible.The one I am seeking is close to a mine, possibly coal, I do not know which county.

Sincerely

Janice
Wales UK

my grandmother

olebetsy — 2 Jan 2008 5:58:12 GMT

My grandmother was a rider on the orphan train in 1909. Her name was Charlotte McGowan. She was born in 1907 and rode the train in 1909. Our problem is their is no record as in census because she was not there then.Is there a way to find out who her agent was that rode the train or who came check on her after she was indentured, because she was never adopted. She was placed in a home in Houma LA with Mr.& Mrs. Benjamin Dumesnil.She was at the new york foundling home, we do have her birth ceritficate and her christing paper . But all trails are dead ends. Any help would be appreciated.

79 orphans sent to Louisiana

Marlene — 5 Aug 2006 2:46:31 GMT

Where can I find out the names of the 79 orphans who were placed in Louisiana during the "placing out" when the children were sent across the US on trains?

Gallaghers from Memphis, TN

LindaKimura — 13 Oct 2007 11:49:15 GMT

Looking for information on Kathryn Gallagher and her nine siblings who were scattered across the US after being orphaned in Memphis sometime after 1870. She ended up with the Murphys in Manketo, Minnesota.
Thanks,
Linda Kimura

Orphan train Children from New York

shedden21 — 7 Oct 2007 3:17:29 GMT

For those of us searching for orphan train riders after 1900 from New York there is a great site here http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~gfli/ this site has been most helpful also the 1900 census can help if you know the last name of your orphan train rider. Sharon

Orphan Train rider families back in NYC - stories? ever reunited?

ritamwp — 1 Aug 2007 5:43:41 GMT

I am curious to know if any books have been written about the families that riders left behind in New York City? I have read several of the stories published by the Orphan Train Heritage Society describing the lives of children following their placement in the Midwest and points farther.

I have also read the scholarly works about Charles Loring Brace and others involved with this great migration of children.

Has anything been written about all the families left behind who may have tried to reunite with the children?

I have heard one particular story about a very prominent New York couple who left their children in the care of a nanny or maid while they galavanted around Europe. It seems that the couple was traveling seperately and left the details of childcare arrangements to the other spouse. The husband assumed his wife was sending money to the nanny, while the wife assumed her husband had taken care of it.

After several months with no contact or financial payment, the nanny placed the children in an orphanage. Upon finally returning home, the couple learned that their children were sent to Iowa on an orphan train. The couple had the resources to find the children and the case went before a judge. The children preferred to stay with their new farm family and were allowed to remain in Iowa.

I don't know if that story is true, but it would seem that other families, even of lesser means, would try to locate these "lost" children. Many of these children were not true orphans, having aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc. back in New York. Are there any personal accounts written from the perspective of a New York family member searching for an orphan train child?

Is there any organization based in New York (not the CAS or NYFH) trying to preserve this history or act as a clearinghouse for information? There must be thousands of New Yorkers who don't even realize they have an orphan train rider in their family tree.

Orphan Train

beth1333 — 18 Jan 2005 9:56:26 GMT

I recently found that my great grandfather road the Orphan Train in New York to Indiana. He was adopted. Is there anyway to trace him through his real name????

Where is Alfred Myers b May 1917?

dedwards110 — 28 Aug 2006 4:40:26 GMT

Alfred was the son of Glenn H. Myers and his wife, Florence, born in Sheldon, O'Brien Co., IA. In the 1920 census, Glenn and his wife have seperated. Alfred is not with either parent nor his grandparents. There is no record of his death, however, family lore states he was placed on an orphan train. Glenn and his new wife, Mabel are in Dickinson Co. in the 1930 Census.
Any information would be greatly appreciated as his sister is anxious to make contact with him. - Donna

H. Feldman, born in NY, aged 10 in 1870

salina5 — 21 Aug 2007 3:18:07 GMT

In the 1870 Douglas Cty, IL, Tuscola Township, census record the subject was shown living with James T. Jester, aged 71, and his daughter, Sally Ann Jester (aged 42, born in DE), in household #398.

Feldman was a "Farm Worker", along with David Jester, the youngest son of James T. and Hester Price Jester (Hester had recently died). S. A. Munson, aged 9 (Sally Ann was named for her Aunt Sally and was a granddaughter of James T. and Hester), and Paul Pursell (Purcell?), aged 14, also a "Farm Worker", born in IN, were also in this household.

One Henry G. Feldman married Cora L. Fugney on 12/14/1897 in LaSalle County, IL; one Henry Feldman also married Mattie Mettler on 1/6/1879 in Macon County, IL (Macon County is one county over from Douglas County). Was FELDMAN an Orphan Train rider? (Doubt Pursell/Purcell was, but guess he could have been).
Thanks for any help!
M. Branson, James T.'s gggranddaughter

H. Feldman, born in NY, aged 10 in 1870

salina5 — 21 Aug 2007 2:47:50 GMT

sicily

theresarobin — 31 Jul 2007 9:40:39 GMT

mymom told me my no-na was an orphan she came from sicily.her name was antonina marretta,i don`t know if this is is true,her name does not match mom and dad`s born 1883

Tom

ChristinaCynthia1770 — 6 Jun 2007 4:48:40 GMT

Amazing things have happened...Thanx for all of your help...u gave me good clues to go on....well i became serious with this and i found my grandmother's church where she was baptized... They gave me her batizing record...which states...Marie Louise Townsend (my nanny), born 1923 Dec 6, Alfred Townsend, father, Minnie Christine Townsend, mother, and get this Tom, Marie's brother who originally was "homer" Townsend...Well he was on Marie's baptizm paper...His wonderful name is Frederick William Townsend...Born 1921 Jun 21---they were baptized together on May 20, 1924...to know my nanny had a beautiful family, even if it was only for a short time...when i showed her this , she cried like a little girl.....All of this is good for the heart and soul...my new email is...sancheztkja17Ahotmail.com tom, your a nice person to help with the searching and gathering information...i know how long that takes...i do appreciate all you've done..thank u kimberly

William O'Neal and his sister, Nancy Jane O'Neal

Indego3 — 31 May 2007 2:36:33 GMT

A cousin and I have been searching for the parents of these two for some time. They were both born in Ireland. He was born in 1841 and she was born either in 1844 or 1845. We have been told that they came over on an orphan train and were living with a Cowart family. Then he went to Livingston Parish, LA after the Civil War and she went to Amite CO, MS.
How does a person find out about the parents of someone from an orphan train?

NYC to Ne-Goldberg, Bumstead.Cold, Heinrich, Lorsch Sept 1908

T. Sullivan — 6 Feb 2004 2:56:50 GMT

Found in Lincoln Ne paper dated Sept 18, 1908 these children: Mabel Goldberg age 4, Theodore Bumstead age 13, Edwin L. Cold age 7, Newton H. Cold age 10, Charles Heinrich age 5, Katie Heinrich age 7, Hans Heinrich age 10, Fred Heinrich age 12, Lottie Lorsch age 5, Louisa Lorsch age 7. These children were placed with families in the Sterling Ne area. Adoptee parents are also named if their is a connection.
Teresa Sulllivan Lincoln Ne

concerning 1800's era - children who were not "legally" adopted

billieteague — 16 Jan 2003 9:20:53 GMT

Hello.
In my genealogy research, I've ran across the following info.:

In the 1800's - through early 1900's (& even possibly before 1800's), when children (such as the Orphan Train children) & other children were put into homes, there were records called "Indenture" records. This was a quick, easy way to place children into homes.

Even though it was not done through the courts, the "Indenture" papers were still signed & given to the agent/overseer (who was the "go-between person" who helped place the child, and delivered the child to the family who "received" the child. Sometimes, the agent/overseer was a Church Reverand, who was the preacher at the local church of that specific town.

For instance, concerning the Orphan Train children: They were brought on trains (to & from ALL states - not just New York, where most of the children came from.) Some children from Canada came to the U.S. & some children from the U.S. also went to Canada. Flyers & advertisements were placed in the local newspapers, telling the "town folk" what day & time the children would arrive on the train, in that town.

The children then stood on a platform and the townspeople picked out which child they wanted. (Most homes could not take more than 1 or 2 children from a family.) The organizations tried to place siblings into close proximity to each other so they could visit. Unfortunately, however, some siblings were separated by many miles, states, etc.

You can go to: www.orphantrainriders.com to read more about this phenomenal, historical situation (that is not even in our history books.)

THIS SITE HAS "ARRIVAL LISTS" for some of the children.

Hope this helps someone,

Billie

Orphans from Illinois Children's Home (chicago)

Orphaned1 — 13 Jul 2001 5:40:54 GMT

My grandmother Anna Mae Cape, sister Prudence, brother Richard placed from Chicago to Kansas in 1893. Older sister Sarah believed to have stayed in Illinois in Macoupin County. All were children of John Scott Cape and Lucinda Gordon Cape. Perhaps had been in Louisville Kentucky around 1895 when Prudence was born and maybe around Shawneetown , Ill in 1891 when Anna Mae was born. Any ideas? I know about Anna Mae and Prudence and saw index card file from Ill Childrens Home. Could the parents and other sister have disappeared that easily?

Orphan Train records

serafinshi1 — 13 Feb 2002 7:12:23 GMT

I have been searching for years about my Grandmother. What I would like to know is has anyone been able to gain access to any records that those who oversaw the trains kept. My Grandmother was on one of the last trains to Nebraska. She remembers that a social worker would visit her on a yearly basis for many years. Who would have these records? Also if a child was placed in the Foundling Hospital did'nt someone, say the mother, have to sign away their rights to the child. I understand it was 1920 and records were not kept so well, but if you take someone's child should'nt someone at least sign something? What other steps should I take if NY has no record of her birth? She is Irish, would there be a church record? I have also found her listed in 2 different cities on the same day in the 1920 census. I need a little guidance, I am reaching the point of putting it down again.
Thanks

Orphan Trains from NYC to North Dakota around 1905-1907

ColleenConnors27 — 24 Mar 2007 2:59:50 GMT

I am looking for any information about Orphan Trains that may have travelled from NYC to somewhere near Mt Carmel, North Dakota around 1905 to 1907. I believe my Grandmother
was one of these children. She was born in 1904 in NYC.
I dont know which towns around Mt. Carmel the trains would
have stopped at.

If anyone could give me some advise as to where I might start looking for a riders list for that area, I would sincerely appreciate the help !!!!!! thanks, Colleen

Graf orphans from Ohio

Meridian05 — 30 Jan 2006 2:36:48 GMT

Anyone out there know of a family of orphans
August "Gus" GRAF/GRAFF/GROF born 1884
Amelia "Minnie" Graf born 1887
Edward John born 1889
Alma Rose born about 1895

George FOX-orphan train rider

Jocelin — 1 Oct 2006 3:25:43 GMT

The only information on my great-grandfather is that "he rode a train from New York and lived in a few homes." His name is George Fox with a birthdate sometime in the early 1870's. He died in Ogden, Utah on 9/17/1950. If you have any information that might help me...much appreciated!

Orphan Trains/Orphans/St. Josephs Old Roman Catholic Orphans Home-Polish children

jmr123 — 27 Aug 2005 7:43:13 GMT

1.On the 1910 Census, Cook County Page 23 and here is the link to it for ancestry.com:http://content.ancestry.com/iexec/Default.aspx?htx=View&...

There are about 12 children listed (and I apologize I can not make out their names- but most of them are Polish) who range in age from 10 to 11 months.

Someone who can read the census better, maybe able to post the names for you. The census taker was pretty heavy handed with his pen/pencil..There is one head of family listed living in the Ophan house...

Sorry I couldn't be more specific. But at least you know where some records are...if you didn't know already.

2.Does ANYONE KNOW WHERE THE ORPHAN TRAIN SOCIETY MOVED TO ONLINE? NOT ONLY IS THEIR WEBPAGE GONE BUT THEIR PHONE IS DISCONNECTED TOO...THE ONE IN ARKANSAS?

3. And my last post, since I am now looking for my great grandfather in this section of American history, IS THERE ONE LIST OR ARE THERE JUST FRAGMENTS?

SORRY TO SOUND SO STUPID...BUT I AM LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO WAS BORN BETWEEN 1864-1868..AND MOVED TO INDIANA...PROBABLY FROM NEW YORK...AND ALSO GIVEN A NEW NAME...ARGH!!!

THANKS..

I HAVE ANOTHER POST TO WARN YOU...ABOUT A WEBSITE.

Glines surname

mydynomite — 8 Mar 2007 3:42:39 GMT

There are several people with the surname Glines in Eastern and North Central South Dakota.

Research Site for New York Death Certificates

shedden21 — 4 Mar 2007 7:25:49 GMT

http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~gfli/links.html I was able to get the death certificate for the father of my Orphan Train Rider from this site. With it I was able to trace the family back 3 generations in Wales.I am still looking for Sarah Rolliston's brother Richard. Sarah rode the Orphan Train to Illinois in 1904.I used her Social Security application to get the correct spelling of her last name. Sharon

Orphan Trains To Greene County, Illinois (Carrollton)

eddyflick — 20 Jan 2006 3:13:59 GMT

Is there anyone that has knowledge about orphan trains to Greene County Illinois and the Greene County Almshouse at Carrollton, Illinois. My grandfather Roy Joseph Varble was there in December of 1893. He was born 25 December 1884/85? He later, at age 15 was in the John and Emma Flick home in Adams County, Illinois, but was not adopted.

Is there any connection to the Chicago Childrens Home, or The Catholic Children's Home at Alton, Illinois? i.e. Did either of thse homes send children on the orphan trains?

Nebraska Orphan Trains

BevBreezieGreen — 12 Oct 2006 8:24:25 GMT

I am searching for information on adoptions in Nebraska.
A relative remembers being put on a train when he was about 4 years old and being taken in by a family. He was put on the train in 1930 in Sheridan County, Nebraska. He was adopted by a family in another part of Nebraska. Several of his siblings were also put on the train.
The names of the children (before adoption) were Frank, Tracy, and Anna Webster.

Any guidance would be most appreciated.
Bev Green

Patricia Lewis (adopted name) on Orphan Train to Saint Louis, Missouri

DonnasGirl — 15 Nov 2002 8:30:32 GMT

Looking for information regarding my Grandmother, Patricia Lewis (adopted name), who was sent to Saint Louis, Missouri on the Orphan Trains. She was 12 when she was adopted. Her parents were Irish, and her supossed birthdate was July 8, 1922, but Saint Louis has NO record of her birth in Saint Louis, Missouri. There is speculation that she came from New York, but we aren't sure how true to fact this is.

Finding out this information makes my heart so heavy. I myself am an adoptee, and was so pleased to find information, and my blood relivites, and happy to be able to research MY family tree.

But I fear that the State Of Missouri will not allow me to reasearch wiether my grandmother was "adopted" after 1917, because of the laws enstated in Missouri, by the Children's Courts, that we instated to protect children. This makes my heart incredibly heavy, because here I have come so far, and looked so long, to just find myself, in another corner, with another deadend.

I am hoping someone will see this message, and have information regarding my Grandmother.

Thanks you for reading this, it's people like those who take the time for others, that are the people that make dreams come into reality.

Blessings~
Mary Patricia Chavez

"Isn't is strange how the word, Missouri, sounds an awful lot like Misery?"

Orphan Train Riders To IOWA

missylynn2002 — 22 Feb 2002 2:56:20 GMT

My mother, Madonna M. Harms, maintains the IOWA ORPHAN TRAIN RESEARCH CENTER at her home in Rolfe, Iowa. This is for persons who is searching for a rider to IOWA. She has been doing this over 10 years & will help you. Just send her a message to : wmmharms@ncn.net . She has many files with biological information about the children that was sent to her by folks that correspond with her after they receive it from the orphanage or other sources. The orphanages will send biological information to family members ONLY after you have properly identified your relationship to the child. This is rather a 'privacy' action on their part. She is also a genealogist/tutor so she can help you a lot. There is no charge for her assistance.

Orphan trains sent to MN

SusanGlinesThompson — 23 Nov 2006 8:09:45 GMT

Does anyone have information or know where to get information about orphan train riders sent to Minnesota between 1875 and 1881? My great-grandfather was adopted and his mother was reported to have been born in New York on the 1880 MN census. So, I am not sure if he was an orphan that was endentured or adopted by the parents that raised him or if he was even an orphan that rode the train to MN. The only lead that I have is the reporting of his mother's birth as being in New York on the 1880 census. He is listed as being an adopted son on that census only. If anyone can help in anyway, I would be more than grateful.
Susan

Alfred Myers b May 1917 adopted by whom?

dedwards110 — 28 Aug 2006 4:35:17 GMT

update/still looking...abandoned Byron siblings to ND to Moore? family

bbj byron janke — 1 Dec 2005 3:06:51 GMT

Father and then mother later...abandoned two children. They took train and ended up Devils Lake, ND...possibly from FL...or anywhere enroute to WI?

Believe Father of Byron children was Scottish and also named William, Mother from Ireland or PA, b abt 1847, birth mothers name possible name Belle Sayers...eventually remarried?

William and Odelia/Delia Byron lived/fostered with Moore ? Family, Devils Lake, ND, according to one family letter.

William Byron, b 1-1855, WI, m Cathrine Francis Murphy whose family lived in ND at that time also, Wiliam became No Pacific RR worker, d. 1960 MN.

Cathrine Francis Murphy, b1872 MN, Died, 1945 MN to parents John b1854 IReland, and Sarah McHenry, b 1859 Canada. Siblings were Clarence P, b 1896 SD, Rose Murphy Lee, b 1881 Ohio, Celia Murphy Banash b 2-1896 ND, Sada b 10-1884 WI, John P b 1884 WI, James L b.1887 ND and Francis b 2-1878 WI.

Abandoned sibling also raised in ND...Odelia/Delia Byron b. abt 1866 WI,, m. Charles Sommers, D. abt 1948 Chehalis WA.
Children: Allan, b.abt 1905 MN
Genevive, b 1897 N Dakota, m. Leo Brick b. 1898, d. abt 1-1969 Chehalis WA,
Son Byron P Brick b.1923, MN, (m. Anne b 1928 d 2005?) Bryon d.1988, Centralia WA?
Wilfred, b 10-25-1894 N Dakota

Beyond this I'm stuck! Havent been able to move forward to living relatives or back ffurther. Any leads appreciated!!

Orphan named Forest,

Glenn Scarborough — 4 Aug 2006 1:21:15 GMT

I live in Georgia USA as child I was told one of my Uncle whom I thought so much of was brought to Georgia by Orphan train. My Grand father seen him there fell in love with him even thou he all ready had five boys and one girl we ask to keep him later adopted him as his own.
His name all any one knew was Forest he was then given Forest Scarborough as his name he was as great a man as any one would want in there family he died back in early 60s.
He later married my Au
nt and they had large family of 3 boys two daughters.
one son passed away two years ago in North Carolina I would like to find some one who mite remember some one buy that name Forest on train. He was and stayed chubby till his death. Glenn Scarborough. Hull, Ga.

Orphans train to Arkansas-Salinger/Sallanger

dellaewing — 31 Aug 2006 7:09:24 GMT

Looking for information on a Ruth Salinger born 1892 that was adpoted by the Lightfoot family in Arkansas when she was very small.Story goes she was from the orphans train..I find her on the1900 census being 8 years old. She is on the 1910 census married to Lee Coker.

Fuller Children Of New York

blazerls — 21 Jan 2006 6:36:57 GMT

We are hoping to make a connection and piece our lost family together.
Between 1910 and 1911 in New York 2 siblings were place out and on the Orphan Train to Missouri.
They were Elizabeth S Fuller born abt 1904/1905 and her brother Wiliam C Fuller Born abt 1907,both in New York.They are said to have abt 5/6 other siblings.Family story is that due to financial problems they being the youngest they were given up.
They arrived in Warrensburg Missouri.They were lucky to both be taken in by John Millar and wife Mary and raised by them.
Both are deceased now but the family is trying to fill in the pieces of there family before Missouri.
We are contacting all the agencies that may have had involvement and of course the Orphan Train Group.
We are seeking to find any family of the siblings that were left behind.The children that made there way to Missouri were young and remembered little except the train ride.
If there is anyone out there who this sounds familiar to,PLEASE CONTACT ME.There is family out there looking
Thanks
VaGirl

Orphan Train Heritage Society of America, new address

Greg Moore — 28 Jun 2006 2:48:58 GMT

The new address for the research center of the Orphan Train Heritage Society of America is:

National Orphan Train Complex, Inc.
P. O. Box 322
Concordia KS 66901
785-243-4471
othsa@msn.com

Web Site:

http://www.orphantraindepot.com

Jimmy Fischer/Fisher

Scot — 4 Apr 2006 6:34:56 GMT

Does anyone recognize the name Jimmy Fischer/Fisher?
He was moved to Omaha, NE and then adopted by a family from Tekamah, NE.
I learned resently that he developed a successful tourism business.
If anyone knows anything please contact me.

saylesc@tulsaschools.org

Thank you,
Scot

NYC Orphan Train Riders

joyofquilts1 — 1 May 2006 9:00:42 GMT

4 brothers from New York City (Jacob Rivicher, Leon Ryvicher, Abraham Ryvicher and Herbert Ryvicher). 3 were in the Hebrew Orphan Asylum and 1 was in the Home for Hebrew Infants. They are there on 1920 Federal census. By the 1930 census, one pops up (adopted) in California and one in Illinois. How do I find out if they were orphan train riders? I have no other explanation for how they got out west.

update/still looking...abandoned Byron siblings to ND to Moore? family

bbj byron janke — 1 Dec 2005 3:06:05 GMT

John Lawrence Smith

Julie Hassinger — 6 Sep 2005 3:56:18 GMT

My husband's grandmother Julia Pittman Vana was the granddaughter of Katherine Smith Dial who was the sister of John Lawrence Smith and sister-in-law to Kate Jordan Smith ( who had a brother named John H. Jordan). My family is looking for any of John Lawrence Smith's grandchildren or great grand children to give them books that once belonged to his 6000 plus volume library that he had in Indiana, including a book he wrote about the history of Randolph County Indiana. We know that he was born in 1860 and was on an orphan train and that his granddaughter Emily Polier posted information regarding that. We know that Emily's parents Mr. and Mrs. Shaw settled in Davenport, Iowa and that she has a brother named Fred. If either she or Fred are interested in the books, they can contact my mother-in-law: Linda Vana Olivera at jennycat@juno.com

Chicago children's Aid Society

MaryRScott12 — 25 Aug 2005 5:20:12 GMT

Does anyone have any information on the Children's Aid Society in Chicago? My father-law was said to have been adopted from there about 1893/1894. We have the original letters from the society to his adoptive parents,the Scott's, which let us know they, the parents, had sent in a form (paper) asking for a boy. Two boys were sent to the Scott's who were then living at/near Wakenny, KS. A later letter mentioned they only have one boy
.
I had made contact with a woman a few years ago who, in my opinion, is descended from the other boy. Her mother has in her pocession a small black cape with a paper pinned on it which states C.M. Scott; the man who adopted my father-inlaw. This woman also has a picture which is identical to one we have. It is the Scott couple sitting in chairs with their adoptive son standing on a box behind them. etc, etc.

Does anyone know anything about adoption records in Chicago at that time? Neither of us could find any for these two boys. We are inclined to believe these boys were indentured.

Any help at all?,
Mary

A SCAM ARTIST WHO IS USING A LEGIT WEBSITE..-BE CAREFUL ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR ADOPTED CHILDREN

jmr123 — 27 Aug 2005 8:01:36 GMT

ICHAS

Bob Young — 26 Aug 2005 1:14:18 GMT

Illinois Children's Home and Aid Society
Statwide Administrative Office
125 S Wacker Dr, 14th Floor
Chicago, IL 60606

312-424-0200

They also have a web page.

Orphan Train Records

Beth Brackney — 24 Aug 2005 11:48:35 GMT

Has anyone had sucess in finding passenger records of the Orphan Train? I need help locating 2 passengers. I know they rode, where they were dropped off and their birth & adopted names. I am trying to locate any type of adoption record. Anyone have tips or ideas for me? I am stuggling

South Louisiana + Edna Ashley

julainehome — 24 Aug 2005 6:21:58 GMT

Edna Ashley, b. 1908 was an Orphan Train Rider in 1910. She came to live in Jeanerette, LA where she died in 1999. Her new family was named Pedeaux. I would like to know more about her "first family". What can I expect from New York Foundling Home? Would they tell of siblings, parents, etc.? Any info would be appreciated. Her name and birthdate info comes from a birth document from New York City.

Orphan Train from New York to Mansura, La.

cajunhootermama — 11 Jan 2002 7:35:42 GMT

My husbands grandfathers name was Alphonse Evans or Evens. He was adopted by a Bordelon family in Louisiana. We would like to find out more about relatives from New York.

Catholic Home Bureau Placement

Belinda — 1 Oct 2002 2:39:38 GMT

Is there anyone on this lists who would know if the Catholic Home Bureau in NYC used the orphan trains to send children out for adoption. Looking at the year 1912 and searching for information regarding my grandfather. He was picked up from the orphange in Sparkill NY by a caseworker named Miss Sheridan and taken along with his sister by train to Locust Gap, PA. Thank you Belinda

Byron brother/sister from WI to North Dakota

jelb87 — 19 Aug 2005 10:58:02 GMT

Looking for information on William John Byron and sister Delia...and their train move to Devils Lake ND, paperwork, etc.!? This would have been in approx 1875-1880. He listed his birth as 1866,
My great grandfather 1st lost his father (death in civil war or abandoned?) and then was abondoned by his mother.
He listed his birthplace as Fairchild WI, but myfather always thought he had been born in FL and lost his dad to the war there? Maybe he was abondoned in that area of WI....so listed it? Supposedly his mother made her way to WI, but couldn't take care of he and his sister. After abandoned, they rode a train to North Dakota where he lived in the barn. He started working for the Great Norther Railway at about age 16 supposedly and later as an Engineer. He was on one of the last trains to be attacked by Indians, according to my Dad.
My Aunt thought he found his birth mother in WI (listed as maiden name Sayers) after he headed to MN.
Thank you for any help!
bbums42@msn.com

Ruby CHRISTENSEN, 98, d.July 13, 2005 in Broken Bow, Nebr.

Volunteer — 30 Jul 2005 6:54:55 GMT

Ruby CHRISTENSEN, 98, died July 13, 2005 in Broken Bow. Ruby Ann
(O'Malley) Christensen was born March 17, 1907. Her exact location of
birth was not known as she was an orphan. Ruby came out west on the orphan train. Growing up Ruby lived with several families in Nebraska and went to different schools. On Nov. 27, 1941, Ruby was married to Anton Christensen. The couple lived on various farms in Custer County. Mr. Christensen died in 1978. She was preceded in death by her husband, Anton. Funeral services were conducted July 18, 2005, at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow. Burial was at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell.

Fred Engert SWEDENBURG, 86, of Clarks, Nebr., died May 9, 2005.

NelliBlu28 — 21 May 2005 1:46:16 GMT

Aurora News Register (NEBRASKA)
May 17, 2005

Fred Engert SWEDENBURG, 86, of Clarks, died Monday, May 9, 2005.
Funeral services were Thursday, May 12 at the United Methodist Church
in Clarks. Military rites were by Clarks VFW Post #4832. Private
burial will be in the Bureau Cemetery near Pierce Chapel at a later date.
Fred Engert Swedenburg was born May 8, 1919 in Canandaigua, N.Y. to Fred and
Irene (Brown) Engert. On April 8, 1944, he married Idona Dee Adams at the
Central City Methodist parsonage. He was preceded in death by his parents;
brothers, Wesley Swedenburg and Howard (Engert) Hurd who came over on the
orphan train with Fred in 1925; two nephews and his adopted parents.

# I am not related and have no other information.

Nebraska train riders ca 1903

morty2 — 19 May 2005 3:58:30 GMT

Does anyone know where there might be a list of Orphan Train Riders that went to Greenwood, NE? I have part of a newspaper clipping that was emailed to me, it lists my grandfather and his sisters. I think the year was 1903. Their names are Anna Lillian Macy, Josephine Lena Macy and William Macy.

Orphan Train

Sylvia Posch — 3 May 2005 3:59:27 GMT

Beth, have you e-mailed a D. Bruce Ayler, he is with the Orphan Train Collections, if not e-mail him at bayler@swbell.net.He has a national database to look thru. He is very informative and very pleasant to deal with. If he doesn't have the info you need he will try to direct you in the right direction. Good Luck.
Sylvia

Searching for my great grandmother Elizabeth(elisebeth) Pfeffer (peiffer or similar)

Gina Rempert — 1 Jan 2005 7:34:23 GMT

have been looking for my great grandmother Elizabeth(or Elisebeth on census 1920) Her daughter's husband passed on the only information that is known. Which is...She came from New York on an orphan train. My grandfather Herman Rassel Sr. either adopted her or took her on as help and married her. From what I can gather she was16 when she married him, he was30. I can't even find a marriage certificate. They lived in Wisconsin (cencus of 1910)Marriage would have been 1890 give or take a year. I would like to know who her parents are, and whether she was an orphan or if she was surrendered to the orphanage, any siblings too. If anyone can help me I would truly appreciate it. If you have any information, email me at Rempert30@aol.com. Thanks in advance.

gina rempert

Sarah Rolliston 1904 Orphan Train Rider

shedden21 — 28 Dec 2004 4:51:36 GMT

Sarah Rolliston or Ralston rode an orphan train in 1904 from New York to Illinois where she was taken in by the William Murphy Family. She had a brother Richard and sister Alice. I am searching for her brother and sister. I found the family in the 1900 census but do not know what happened to them. Sharon

James MacAvoy/McAvoy/MacEvoy/McEvoy from NY placed in Jamesburg, NJ in 1853/4

Bob MacAvoy — 7 Dec 2004 2:17:24 GMT

My great grandfather James MacAvoy (McAvoy-MacEvoy-McEvoy) was placed in the home of Esther/Hester Delatush in the Jamesburg section of Monroe Township in New Jersey in 1853/4. At the time she had recently become a widow and was aged in her 50/60's and had grown children. When she died in 1861 James became bound to her son Henry Delatush in New Brunswick, New Jersey. I am not sure if James was originally bound to Esther/Hester Delatush, but I presume this was so. James has claimed to have been born in New York as were his parents. In our family history it has been suggested that he was born in Troy, New York, but I've never been able to prove this. I suspect that he might have been born in NYC.

This subject has been my "brick wall" for years and I am literally grasping at straws.

New York Juvenile Asylum???

vndnheuvelgenes1 — 11 Oct 2003 6:51:18 GMT

Does any one have any information about the NYJA?
I have been told that it was a home for wayward girls. The 1900 census reveals a Alice Vinton, age 16 living there as a student. By student, did they mean resident? My grandmother, Gertrude vinton, was born June 13, 1900. The next day she was brought to the New York Foundling Hospital where she remained under the nuns care for a little over 2 years. She was then sent on a "Baby Train" to Wisocnsin where she was cared for by "foster" parents. I suspect that maybe this Alice Vinton may have been her mother. Can anyone help me prove/disprove this theory?
Thanks, Michael

Orphan Records

fhc3337103 — 28 Oct 2004 1:23:33 GMT

I am searching for "Orphans Records." These orphans may have been temporiarly sheltered by the Catholic Church and have had Baptisms or other sacrement records, etc.

Especially interested in those childred who were placed on the "Orphan Trains" from 1900-1930 from New York to various locations.
Any information would be greatly appreciated in helping us to locate these records.
Please call Sharon (505)-388-8826 or email to the above address at the Family History Center.

Alexandria Walters found love in Nebraska at the end of her Orphan Train ride.

Robin Butler Daviet — 3 Feb 2004 7:36:50 GMT

Alexanderia Walters, who was b. 16 February 1901 in New York City, N.Y. and d. 4 November 1986 in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, arrived in Nebraska in 1918 aboard an Orphan Train from New York City. She and her two brothers had been in an orphange in New York City for some time prior to their being placed on an Orphan Train.
The story told is that Alexanderia's mother, Anna, passed away and her father, Herman Walters, did not feel he could properly care for the children by himself. It is believed he was a bartender in the Brooklyn Bowery area of New York City.
Allie, as she was called, was adopted by the Vance family from Peru, Nebraska. However, she did not remain with the family long, because she soon fell in love with Emil Gerlt. They were married 4 September 1919 in Falls City, Richardson County, Nebraska.
Allie searched for her brothers and was reunited with them in the late 1950's, shortly before the death of one of them, Herman Walters b. 11 January 1902 in New York City, N.Y. d. 19 March 1958 in Arlington, Iowa.
We are looking for information about Alexandria's parents and current family of her siblings. Direction as to where to search in New York records or other places to look would be helpful. We do understand the orphange that Allie and her brothers were in, burnt down sometime after they left and all records were lost. Even the name of that orphange would be helpful.

Buffalo New York Orphan

fridgedeb — 25 Apr 2002 5:22:42 GMT

I'm looking for information on my great-grandmother Ethel Belle Purcell born in August, 1886, Buffalo New York. She was supposedly orphaned at a young age and somehow ended up in Chicago (not sure how). How would I find out a list of orphanages in Buffalo to check to see if she was there and then maybe on an Orphan Train.

Door of Hope

Teresa_Go4th — 2 Jan 2004 7:36:35 GMT

Could someone please tell me how I could find out about the adoption of a family member that rode an orphan train and adopted through the Door of Hope orphanage in Independence, KS. I was wondering who I could contact regarding adoption papers. This was in 1912.

Thank you,
Teresa

orphan trains

lois gillespie — 4 Oct 2002 1:54:07 GMT

my grandma was brought to the new york foundling hospital on dec 26,1894. Her birth mother had named her Lena Habner and said she was born in First Avenue 5 weeks earlier. She was sent on an orphan train to Milwaukee,Wis, in 1897 and became foster child of John and Justyna Nowak. They named her Magdalen Nowak.Was First Avenue a hospital? What was her mother's name? Looking for any information or help. thanks

Children's Aid and Brace Memorial Boys Farm

Gloria Smith — 20 Nov 2002 2:05:45 GMT

I know these were run in conjunction with each other as my father was placed in NY. Children's Aid Society first and then sent onto Brace Memorial Boys Farm. Then in 1921 he was placed on an Orphan Train to the midwest and west and ended up contracted out in Missouri. Does anyone else have information on Brace Memorial Boys Farm?

Orphan Trains in Colorado?

Amy R — 21 Jan 2004 9:29:49 GMT

Hi all,

I am a novelist and am doing some research on the Orphan Trains. I believe that a few of the trains came to Colorado, but would like to find out locations and approximate dates. Any info would be helpful.

Thanks,
Amy Rognlie

Orphan train rider

Lindsey Salda — 22 Jul 2004 1:51:53 GMT

I am looking for any info on my great grandfather, Arthur Buckingham (Buckingham was his adopted last name} I have no idea if his real name was Arthur, which train he was on, his birthday or even the year he was on the train. He died before I ever even knew about him and the Orphan Trains. My grandmother, his duaghter is also dead. I don't think anyone in my family knows. Please help! It is very important for me to find out, I need to know who I am, my mother side is a dead end, I cant find anything about her side. If you can give me advice as to where to begin, or anything I would greatly appreciate it.
Lindsey Salda.

NY Foundling Home/Catholic Home Bureau/NYSPCC HELP!

jblee3_1 — 17 May 2004 2:04:38 GMT

It is so dishearting to call the home and only have them tell you they have no information on the catholic mercy trains they ran. I spoke to a Sister Joseph there told me she was doing a search for my great-grandfather and the train passenger list for that day-June 28, 1912, and to call her back in a week, which i did and of course her response was we don't have any records on the trains. Well, I know for a fact they were involved. Does anyone know if this home kept passenger lists? What is it going to take to get these records opened up? It's been almost over 92 years since my grandfather rode their catholic trains and still this home is in denial. Can anyone help me? Why does this home continue to deny, deny, deny? I know my grandfather and his sister were picked up by a caseworker, Miss Sheridan and taken on the train along with others to stops in PA. Any help would be appreciated. Regards and take care....Belinda. Maybe some day these private agency will open these records for people like me. Decendants. Another agency is the NYSPCC and CHB. They refuse to let you have copies of your decandants records even though they have them. I'm sorry for ranting, but I've been working on this for years and when you know they have the records (and everyone in those records are dead) it's just so sad, very sad. Boo on NY Private Agency Foster Care and Adopition!!!

National Orphan Train Riders Reunion and Celebration.

je2303 — 10 Jun 2004 9:56:04 GMT

www.saljournal.com
http://www.saljournal.com/content/2-0-/module/displaystory/s...
Orphan Train reunion
Concordia reunion June 11 & 12, 2004
By TIM UNRUH of the Salina Journal

CONCORDIA, Kansas — Children put on trains in Eastern cities and shipped cross-country to areas in the rural West will be honored here Friday and Saturday, June 11 & 12, 2004.

For 75 years, the Orphan Trains relocated boys and girls who had no parents or whose parents were unable to care for them.

Four of the some 250,000 who made the journey from 1854 to 1929 are coming to Concordia for the National Orphan Train Riders Reunion and Celebration.

It begins at 11 a.m. Friday with a $6.50 “Cream Can Lunch” at Cloud County Community College.

Entertainment, meals, recollections from Orphan Train riders, a stage production at the Brown Grand Theatre and a dinner are planned through 7 p.m. Saturday.

A year ago, Concordia was designated the headquarters of the Orphan Train Heritage Society of America, moving it from Springdale, Ark.

gr. grandmother Mary Belle Bacon

chriswarner70 — 30 Sep 2004 3:59:50 GMT

was Mary Belle Bacon on any train with her son cuba Guy Bacon? She is our most frustrating dead end!!!

Mississippi Orphan Trains

Wanda — 27 Aug 2004 12:44:03 GMT

Were there any orphan trains that travel to Mississippi between 1850 and 1860.
Thanks
Wanda

Orphan Train

pacooper193 — 17 Jul 2005 1:51:50 GMT

Article in Grand Rapids, Mi. paper, The Grand Rapids Press on 8-17-04. Very informative. You may get additional info about the orphan trains at www.orphantrainriders.com. Please pass this info onto others.

ORPHAN TRAIN HERITAGE SOCIETY OF AMERICA

elaineohenderson — 19 Jul 2005 5:34:59 GMT

Hello! It has come to my attention why people in this area are unresponsive and unloving and uncaring and cannot face problems and/or reality!

Orphan Train Heritage Society of America
614 E. Emma Ave. #15
Springdale, ARKANSAS 72764-4834
Tel: 501-756-2780
Email: othsa@msn.com

Toll free? 1-800-876-5353

I just had another royal dose of their "medicine" fighting for our lives! UNBELIEVABLE!!

William A. Allen / Orphan Train rider 1878-1882

gmc1217 — 1 Aug 2004 12:34:46 GMT

Does anyone have any information, and/or where I can obtain information on an orphan train rider. My greatgrandfather along with his brother were put on Orphan train some where between 1878-1882??. William was between 8-12 years old, brother older??. They were bound for Iowa, the way the story goes from my greatgrandfather and they jumped the train in OHIO, somewhere aroung Paulding county. William A. Allen was born in 1870, per his death records, where unknown and married Rose Etta Measle, 1872-1957 where they had 8 children bofore moving to Michigan in 1905, where they lived and died. I would like to know if there are records of riders and destinations etc. to see if I can determine where he was born and if his last name is really ALLEN. My greatgrandfather said he never seen his brother so they must have been seperated. Anyone please help I have no idea where to start on this. Thanks Gail

Orphan Train

Sylvia Posch — 26 Jul 2004 11:15:56 GMT

Thanks anyway Sally.

Orphan Train Census

Sylvia Posch — 26 Jul 2004 8:53:58 GMT

Nancy, could you please check your records to see if a Anna Nagel was listed, she was on a Orphan Train abt:1902, b:1899, sent to Kansas where she was adopted by the Betzen family of St. Marks, Kansas. She was in the NY Foundling Home, any info would be great. Thanks Sylvia

Indentured or adopted?

Lindsey Salda — 22 Jul 2004 6:16:13 GMT

What were the age limits for adoption? I know some kids werent legally adopted they were indentured I think.Help!
Lindsey.

Orphan Trains & Their Precious Cargo by Clark Kidder

LolaAngell51 — 27 Mar 2004 5:35:37 GMT

Would anyone have access to this book, "Orphan Trains and Their Precious Cargo" by Clark Kidder? If so, could you please look on pages 200 & 201 for the surname HERMANCE?

I have not been able to get the book through my library because I do not live within the city, and they will only get inter-library books for city residents. The nearest library where it can be found is at the State Historical Society of Iowa in Iowa City, IA, which is over 100 miles from my home.

I have good information that the book contains mention of Charles HERMANCE and at least one other brother. I would like all the information on all of the children.

If some kind soul could do this for me, please include the publisher, etc.

Thanks so very much,

Lola in Iowa

orphans

Betty — 8 May 2004 6:05:44 GMT

My message is that I,m looking for some blood relatives of my husbands grandfather.
His name was Charles a. Wheeler. At about 10 or 12 he was taken in by the Philetus A. Leonard family, in Ill.
My understanding is Charles was born in joliet, Ill. born June 24, 1857 and died May, 03, 1941 in rpid City SD., buried at Elm springs SD. He married Sarah Isabelle timmons.
Rumors are that charles was never adopted, by the Leonards , just carried the name., but also rumored that he was an orphand.
The family are desperatley wanting to know who their real blood family are..I understand the Leonards were active Baptist ---I can,t seem to find any info.
Philetus[Peter] Leonard was born Ayg, 24. 1834/or 1832 , washington county NY. He married Anna A Cherryman born May, 15, 1839 at Farmersville NY. Philetus was also a teacher.
Is there anyway of tracking Charles parents.. the Leonards died in Odell, Ill.
I was wondering if any church records are available
Would very much like info on church records and orphan trains or orphans dwellings

Betty

Orphan train to Albion, Michigan 1857

Frank Passic, Albion Historian — 16 Jun 2004 10:36:15 GMT

Hi, everyone. I am currently resesarching the two Orphan Trains that stopped in Albion, Michgan after leaving NYC in May, and June 30 of 1857, with 30 and 31 children aboard, respectively. I have just a handful of names from already-received or published information by the OTHSA or the 1881 report. One, George TIMMONS was adopted as George Stone, and a two-part article entitled "Albion's Little Drummer Boy" is published on the www.albionmich.com website, originally published locally on May 20, and 27 2001. Click on my name, then go to the Historical Notebook section and choose that option. Then scroll chronologically down to the aformentioned dates. If your ancestor was on the Orphan Train and was placed in Albion, Michigan, feel free to contact me.

Census Look-ups NE Orphans-Can help in exchange for Look-ups in NYC

jblee3_1 — 17 May 2004 2:04:38 GMT

Hello - I have access to the census in NE. If you are looking for your Orphan decandants and know they came to NE I would be willing to do some Look-ups in exchange for Look-ups in NYC. I'm needing specifically 1905 NY State Census information. I've got the addresses, but not the access. Email me privately. I will exchange my look-ups for yours. Regards....B

Orphan Trains OH to MI?

JanetStory58 — 23 Mar 2005 5:56:12 GMT

My great-grandmother was born in Steubenville, OH. She and an older boy (who may or may not have been her brother) were adopted by a family in Lapeer County, MI sometime in the mid to late 1860s. Did any orphan trains go from Steubenville to Michigan in that time?

New Book on Orphan Trains

Veronica — 30 Apr 2004 10:52:11 GMT

I work at a bookstore and just ran across this new paperback title. Perhaps useful to some of you?

We Rode the Orphan Trains, by Andrea Warren. Published by Houghton Mifflin.

Best of luck!

VF

Elizabeth (lizzie) Isfort, Isford

barbara — 18 Apr 2004 2:15:22 GMT

I recently found my great aunt Lizzie Isfort on a List of "Unknown" riders on the Orphan Trains.She was born June 1893 on Blackwells Island in NY, She would have come from the Institution of Mercy in NY after June of 1900 as she is still listed with the NY census in 1900 in NY.Birth parents Anne Carney and William B.Isfort. Any information would be welcome Thanks

Orphan Train Ga

BerniceWright31 — 9 Nov 2005 11:50:14 GMT

Does anyone have any info on the children placed in Ga from
the Orphan Train?
Bernice

Train ride to Macon, Georgia

Frances — 27 Mar 2004 4:48:15 GMT

Are there anyone on the message board had
relatives to come to the Orphanage Home in
Macon, Georgia? I would like to hear from anyone that
did. I know my Roy family came from New York to
the Orphanage Home in Macon, Georgia.
Thanks, Frances