Orphan Train Mural

A vibrant mural adorns the Pennsylvania Street side of the Dowagiac Post Office, a testament to the town's compassion and history. The artwork, "Starting a New Life: Dowagiac's Orphan Train Story," was created by artist Ruth Andrews and a dedicated group of community members. Unveiled on October 11, 2017, it depicts the journey of orphaned children from the harsh streets of New York City to a new beginning in Dowagiac.

Andrews, a renowned artist with a background in experimental filmmaking, led the mural project. Her passion for the Orphan Train story was ignited by her involvement with Michigan History Day students in 2016. The mural, a collaborative effort that brought together individuals of various skill levels, is a visual narrative of the town's role in providing hope and opportunity to vulnerable children.