The presentation, From New York to the Heartland: The Orphan Train Experience in Illinois, will take place on Sunday, August 9, at the Lincoln Learning Center in Sterling at 2 pm. We will explore the beginnings of this movement, the organizations involved, and the journeys taken by the children. We will then examine Illinois’ unique relationship with this movement. Finally, we will take an in-depth look at the lives of a handful of orphan train riders who arrived in Illinois in 1884 – their pasts, their journey to Illinois, and their lives after their journey west. Audience members will be invited to share stories of orphan train riders in their families if they would like.
This event is co-presented by the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau. Road Scholar speakers travel throughout Illinois, sharing free, dynamic presentations about literature, philosophy, theater, local history, film, music, politics, and more, at no cost to host organizations. The program enables local nonprofit organizations to present free-admission cultural programs to their communities.
As a librarian, Jamie Poorman has a lot of experience with children’s programming, leading book clubs, and presenting programs for public audiences and groups like the DAR. Outside the library, she led the local Cub Scout pack for many years and presented programs and ceremonies for the scouts and their families, and served as a board member for the Clark County Historical Society.
About the Sterling Public Library and the Sterling/Rock Falls Historical Society
The Sterling Public Library has been a pillar of the community since before its Carnegie building was erected in 1904. Providing information to the community in every form available. The Sterling/Rock Falls Historical Society has partnered with the Sterling Public Library to fulfil a major role of their mission, which is to “…encourage, assist and promote the education of citizens and visitors to our community about our history and its heritage”.
About Illinois Humanities
Illinois Humanities is a statewide nonprofit organization that activates the humanities through free public programs, grants, and educational opportunities that spark conversation, foster reflection, build community, and strengthen civic engagement for everyone in Illinois. Founded in 1974, we are the state partner for the National Endowment for the Humanities and supported by state, federal, and private funds. Stay connected with Illinois Humanities on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn @ILHumanities.
