History Book Club Spring Series - Session 3

The Orphan Train  by Christina Baker Kline
April – June 2026
$50/Series
Between 1854 and 1929, so-called orphan trains ran regularly from the cities of the East Coast to the farmlands of the Midwest, carrying thousands of abandoned children whose fates would be determined by pure luck. Would they be adopted by a kind and loving family, or would they face a childhood and adolescence of hard labor and servitude?
As a young Irish immigrant, Vivian Daly was one such child, sent by rail from New York City to an uncertain future a world away. Returning east later in life, Vivian leads a quiet, peaceful existence on the coast of Maine, the memories of her upbringing rendered a hazy blur. But in her attic, hidden in trunks, are vestiges of a turbulent past.
BECHS History Book Club Session – The Orphan Train
June 20, 11 a.m. – Book Discussion
The quarterly book club goes beyond a classic group book read and discussion. Over three months, while participants read the book, additional monthly sessions will include a discussion of the book’s setting and social history, a special presentation on a related historical topic, and will conclude with a group book discussion.
The BECHS History Book Club is $50, which includes a paperback copy of the book, admission to the speaker, and group book discussion, refreshments, and a small gift for completing the activities. ($60 value!) All programs will be held at the History Center or virtually if winter weather is a concern.
Already have a copy of the book, but want to come to the speaker or just the book discussion? Individual programs are $10 each.