“If I close my eyes, I can almost hear the whistle fo the trails coming down the rails.”
The year was April 1907 and three trains were arriving in Opelousas with orphaned children from the New York Foundling Hospital.
Many residents in Opelousas and beyond gathered at the station to meet the child they were potentially adopting. Whether for the love of a child or free labor, many adults were reach to claim these children.
Many trains came and brought orphans to the area. The children each wore tags and an identification number so the waiting parent could identify them. The children rode the rails for a better life. Many became outstanding citizens.
The orphans found better lives – being raised in the faith, being loved and cared for. They rode the rails with hopes and dreams.
The Sabine Parish Library is sponsoring a program about the Louisiana Orphan Train in Many on Tuesday, July 29 at 5 p.m. at the Family Life Center at Many’s First United Methodist Church.
Come and enjoy an interesting piece of Louisiana history. Books and other mementos will be for sale.