Orphan Trains in Iowa

From 1854-1929, more than 200,000 children from urban cities in the East were sent on trains westward. Children, both boys and girls, ages from babies to 14 years old were placed with new families, sometimes with great success, other times not. Presenter Lori Vicker will show vintage clothing similar to that worn by these children and a bibliography that highlights non-fiction and historical fiction about orphan trains.

Free and open to the public thanks to the support of West Des Moines Historical Society Members, the West Des Moines Library Friends Foundation and the Iowa Arts Council.