I painted this from an image in my head after watching the PBS American Experience documentary entitled, The Orphan Trains. The film released in 1995, included interviews with actual ophans who had ridden an orphan train to a new life. The orphans, then in their 80s and 90s, recounted their experiences.
In the mid-1800s, thousands of emigrants left Europe seeking opportunities in America. However, when they arrived they often found great hardship. Many died leaving single parent families that were unable to support themselves. There were untold numbers of orphaned and abandoned children living on the streets, turning to crime and prostitution to survive. Many were hung for the crime of merely stealing food. From 1854 to 1929 an estimated 200,000 children rode “orphan trains” from overpopulated areas of the East Coast to rural America to find new homes.
When the orphan trains stopped at various stations along the way, the children, each with a number tag attached to their clothing, were either placed on the station platform or were taken to a public place for review and possible selection by people willing to take them in. Those children not selected got back on the train for the next stop. Many siblings were separated. Due to lack of oversight and regulation or any documentation, it is impossible to know what happened to many of them. One can only imagine their fate --- some found good homes while others perhaps not so blessed.
I am sad to admit I knew nothing of this part of our history. I only discovered it when searching through Netflix to find something interesting to watch. I hope you'll take a moment to learn more.
Leaving on an Ophan Train
20 X 24
Paintings by Sally K. Green
Reproduction or use is by permission only - please contact me.
© 2008 Sally K. Green