Have you ever wondered about the history of the Orphan Trains? From 1854-1929, an estimated 250,000+ children born in New York rode the Orphan Trains to find new homes throughout the United States.

On Saturday, October 6, orphans, their families, friends and all interested individuals are invited to attend the 52nd Annual Midwest Orphan Train Riders and Friends annual gathering at St. Francis Convent, Little Falls.

Registration confirmation begins at 9 a.m.  Keynote speaker, author Clark Kidder of Wisconsin, will present the gripping story of his paternal grandmother, Emily (Reese) Kidder in the book, “Emily’s Story—The Brave Journey of an Orphan Train Rider.” Following lunch, New York City author Christina Baker-Kline will share about her new novel, “The Train Ride,” (to be published in January 2013) a powerful story of upheaval and resilience, second chances, unexpected friendships, and secrets we carry with us that keep us from finding out who we are. Additional guests for the day include Renee Wendinger, president of the Orphan Train Riders of New York; Pete Keaveny, Susan Lehner, Joan Prochaska and Janice Gonsior, current officers of the Orphan Train Riders of New York. Activities for the day also include a sharing of orphan train rider stories, lunch, a silent auction and much fellowship.

For more information on the annual gathering, or to pre-register by September 7, contact Joan Prochaska at (763)389-4892 or email: jprochas@umn.edu.