A History of Placing-Out: The Orphan Trains

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the implementation of placing-out, including contributing social conditions, the underlying philosophy, the basic components, and professional and public perceptions. Between 1854 and 1930, the placing-out or orphan train strategy, considered to be the forerunner of modem family foster care, relocated approximately 150,000 children and youths from the city of New York to families in the Midwest. The program was designed to give children who were orphaned or from impoverished urban families and opportunity to live with rural families to increase their chances to become productive citizens as adults. The chapter considers implications of the orphan trains for child welfare policies and practice. The credibility of some criticisms of the placing-out program also has been confirmed, particularly in light of more child welfare thinking. Children’s Aid Society required that a child go with a family willingly and that the agent make a home visit before settling the placement. Families had to provide an education and proper care.

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