Orphan Train Movement
The Orphan Train Movement was a social initiative in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It aimed to relocate orphaned and abandoned children from crowded urban areas, particularly in New York City, to rural communities in the Midwest. The movement began in 1854 and was organized by various charitable organizations, including the Children's Aid Society, which sought to provide these children with stable homes and better opportunities.
Over 200,000 children were placed on trains and sent to different states, where they were often adopted or fostered by families. While some children found loving homes, others faced challenges, including exploitation and harsh conditions. The Orphan Train Movement highlighted the need for child welfare reform and contributed to the development of modern foster care systems.