About Us
The Museum and Research Center are dedicated to the preservation of the stories and artifacts of those who were part of the Orphan Train Movement from 1854-1929.
The mission of the National Orphan Train Complex is to collect, preserve, interpret, and disseminate knowledge about the orphan trains, and the children and agents who rode them. The museum’s collections, exhibitions, programming, and research will instill a sense of pride for Riders and Descendants; engage historians and researchers, heritage visitors, and the general public; and further promote understanding of this nationally significant chapter of cultural and social history. (Updated 2/23/2021)
Hours and Admission
Regular Hours
- Tuesday – Friday: 10am – Noon, 1pm – 4pm
- Saturday: 10am – 4pm
- Monday: By appointment, made four days in advance
We are no longer requiring masks for vaccinated visitors.
Admission
- Adults: $8
- Military: $7
- Students/Children (4-18): $4
- Children 3 and Under: FREE
- Group Rate (over 10 people)
- Adults: $7
- Students/Children: $3
If you have a group of 10 or more, please call ahead so we can accommodate your group.
If you would like to meet privately with the curator please arrange an appointment at least one week prior to your visit.
HUMANITIES KANSAS PROVIDES CARES ACT GRANT TO NOTC
A cost-sharing grant, part of the CARES Act, in the amount of $4685 was awarded to the National Orphan Train Complex by Humanities Kansas in relief of funds lost by NOTC during the pandemic lockdown. Visitors during the tourism season (March – October) typically provide operational funding for the museum for the entire calendar year. The museum was closed from March 20 through June 1 to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Curator Shaley George used the time the museum was closed to work on many projects including museum displays and developing Rider stories for social media platforms. She was also able to ensure that the buildings and collections were properly maintained during the shutdown. Since reopening on June 2, the museum has experienced visitor numbers typical of early spring.
Funds from the NOTC Operational Fund, managed by the Community Foundation for Cloud County, will be used to match a portion of this grant for operations. “Funding for this program is provided by Humanities Kansas, a nonprofit cultural organization connecting communities with history, traditions, and ideas to strengthen civic life.”
Recent Statue Unveilings
For the current list of statue locations click here. Page 1 has information on our newest statue, and Page 2 has the statue list