By Payton Tholstrup

In a Facebook post, The National Orphan Train Complex Board (NOTC) of Directors announced they are welcoming Heather Bigwood, a new curator.

Heather is originally from North Dakota but completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in History at Kansas State University last summer. She has a variety of experiences that will benefit NOTC. She has worked at several museums, but most recently was employed at The Riley County Historical Museum.

Heather has been interested in history her entire life and has even participated in various historical re-enactments.

“Heather is well prepared to help fulfill the mission of the National Orphan Train Complex,” Wonda Phillips, Treasurer of the Board of Directors, said.

The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, and disseminate knowledge about the orphan trains, as well as the children and agents who rode them.

Heather is replacing Kaily Carson who recently relocated to Wisconsin to attend graduate school.

“When I went back to school to get my history degree, I saw myself working hands on with history as a curator in a small-town museum. Right now, I’m living my dream. I’m so happy to be here. I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the community and working with visitors from across the nation. I’d like to integrate my theatre and living history background into the school tours here at NOTC this year,” Heather stated.