A Mother's Song: A Story of the Orphan Train - Paperback

by Cleo Lampos (Author)

"I was gripped from the first by the story - the mother's plight, the desperation, the historical details richly woven into the story. I hadn't heard of the Orphan Train; what a thought - to send your children into an unknown." - Amazon review
In 1890, Deirdre O'Sullivan lives in Five Points, New York City with her husband, son and four year old, Ava Rose. Pregnant with their third child, Deirdre works as a washerwoman at the hotel's laundry. If Sean works at all, he drinks his paycheck at the pub. When he is killed in an accident at work, Deirdre is devastated.

She gives birth to another son, but cannot work at the laundry. The oldest son lives on the street as a newsie. Rather than let Ava Rose and her baby brother starve to death with her, she signs for them to be put on an orphan train. This orphan train takes these youngsters to Nebraska to Claudine, a young woman who has suffered multiple miscarriages.

Will the adoption provide the safety and opportunity that Deirdre hopes?

This researched story of two mothers and the child who loves both is heart wrenching. It is a poignant tale of hope and courage against unfathomable odds for a better life free from prejudice and poverty.

Author Biography

Cleo Lampos attained a Master's Degree in Education and has taught in the Chicago area in special education. She has spent much time researching the orphan train, attended the Orphan Train Reunion in Little Falls, MN, and the Orphan Train Complex in Kansas. She is familiar with the difficulties of adoption and foster care on children's development. The author of numerous magazine articles and seven other books, Lampos enjoys speaking to reading clubs, seniors, and mother support groups. She and her husband have an urban farm and can their harvest. She enjoys her 11 grandchildren but has time to join a Quilting club.