Merci Train

Following World War II, many cities of Europe found themselves nearly unable to continue. The rain of bombs and shelling leveled everything. An American Newspaper Columnist, Drew Pearson, wrote an article depicting the hardships Europeans were still enduring. This time instead of the military leading the march, the people of America banded together behind Drew Pearson and delivered more than 250 railroad cars of aid to the people of France. Less than a year later, word got out that France was planning a train of her own. When it arrived, there were (forty-nine) 40 & 8's carefully packed full of amazing treasures

For a country who had nothing to spare, France generously gave what was most dear to their hearts, and placed their items on the train as it passed through their town. A list of items would include: wooden shoes, toy renault cars, wedding dresses, war medals from dead husbands, brothers and sons, children's dolls, games, brass trumpets and the list goes on. The people of France showed a grand generosity.

A beautiful display telling the story of the Merci Train through a visual chronological order will be coming to the park soon.

The 40 & 8 Boxcar got its name from its use during WW I and WW II as a cargo space large enough to carry 40 men or 8 horses.

The coat-of-arms on the sides of the car represents the provinces of France. Click on the shield for more information about that coat-of-arms.