We are a Big Deal

It might not look like it from the outside but Concordia is a big deal town. The point was made again Tuesday at the Chamber Coffee. Jim and Becky Higgins (Becky is National Director of the Orphan Train Heritage Society) are in Concordia for the annual Orphan Train Reunion. Concordia is home to their group.

This weekend, Orphan Train Riders and their descendents will spend time in Concordia celebrating this portion of our nation’s history and our heritage. A full schedule of the weekend’s activities can be picked up at the chamber office.

More information about the Orphan Train movement can be found at either of the two websites: http://orphantrainriders.com/ http://orphantraindepot.com/.

What is interesting about Concordia and the Orphan Train Heritage society is the seamless integration of two affiliated groups. The national group and the local museum are operating under different purposes to achieve a greater understanding of the Orphan Train Movement.

The accomplishments of the local museum are significant. They acquired the old BNSF Depot. They raised money to refurbish the roof and the exterior. They were just awarded a KDOT grant to refurbish the depot’s interior. One of the Orphan Train Rider descendants donated a clock which will be unveiled this week end too. They are about to name a curator for the museum as well.

So it is a big deal. From operating out of a back office at Century 21 and Radio Shack to moving into a new museum. Bringing folks to town and sharing the attributes of our community is a BIG DEAL.