Orphan Train

Emma Symms, niece of the late Reverend Simms, leads the effort to move the children west. She organizes funds, plans the journey, and remains a steady, hopeful presence despite the uncertainty. Her resolve and compassion drive the mission and keep the group focused on a better future. She embodies leadership grounded in care for the kids.

Frank Carlin is a reporter who travels with the group to chronicle the orphan train's voyage. He serves as observer, companion, and storyteller, offering a candid perspective on both the journey and its human cost. His evolving bond with JP adds a protective, warmer dimension to his role. He aims to craft a hopeful story that reflects both dreams and realities.

Ben is one of the children traveling with Miss Simms. He represents the diverse mix of kids seeking belonging and a chance at a new life. His presence contributes to the group’s dynamic as they navigate the uncertainties of arrival and placement.

Tony is among the children on the journey, contributing to the group’s energy and interactions. His perspective reflects the range of emotions the kids experience—from hope to hesitance—as they move toward possible futures.

Liverpool is one of the traveling children who wrestles with where he might belong. Along the route, he, like the others, searches for acceptance and stability in a world that keeps offering new possibilities.

J.P. is a girl who is actually named Josephine; she shows a note of independence, often helping with photography and contemplating a future beyond a traditional family. She hints at accompanying Frank Carlin to California, signaling a desire for freedom and choice.

Sara confides in Miss Simms about her status as an orphan, deepening the emotional stakes for the group. Her honesty helps knit the children closer together and underscores the personal costs of the journey.

Mouse is one of the younger travelers who shares in the journey’s uncertainties and hopes. His presence on the train emphasizes the fragile vulnerability of the group and the need for protective guidance.

Bruce is another child in the traveling group, contributing to the ensemble dynamic as the children seek homes and a sense of place along the way.

Annie is adopted at Deer Creek, marking a turning point in the journey where some children find a home. Her adoption embodies the potential outcomes of the train’s mission and the complexity of family formation.

Dutch is one of the children aboard the journey, sharing in the search for belonging and a future beyond transient stops along the way.

Mr. Barrington appears as a town official who voices skepticism and can label the traveling children as beggars. His stance illustrates the harsh reception some communities offer to the orphan train.

Mr. McGarrity represents another adult presence in the towns encountered, contributing to the social texture of the journey and the choices families face.

Mrs. Gardner stands among the adults in the communities encountered, shaping responses to the orphan train and the children it carries.

Mrs. Comstock is another community figure who influences the reception of the travelers as they move from stop to stop.

Nellie is one of the adult figures guiding or observing the journey, adding to the human texture of the voyage.