The Merci Train: A Gift of Gratitude

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A symbol of gratitude from France, the Merci Train in Jackson represents enduring friendship and the spirit of post-war generosity.

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Merci Train

The Merci Train in Jackson, Mississippi, is a historic French boxcar, a token of gratitude from the people of France to the United States for aid during and after World War II. It stands as a symbol of international friendship and resilience.

A brief summary to Merci Train

648-698 E Pearl St, Jackson, Mississippi, 39201, US
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Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the train's exterior and surrounding historical context.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Old Capitol Museum to deepen your understanding of Mississippi history.
Check the Mississippi Department of Archives and History website for potential events or exhibits related to the Merci Train.

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Getting There

Walking

The Merci Train is located behind the Old Capitol Museum, near the former GM&O Depot. From the Mississippi State Capitol, walk east on E Pearl St. The train will be on your right, next to the Old Capitol Museum. There are no costs associated with walking to the train.
Public Transport

Jackson's public transportation system, JATRAN, has bus routes that stop near the Old Capitol Museum. Check the JATRAN website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop, walk towards the Old Capitol Museum; the Merci Train is located behind it. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Jackson. Request a ride to the Old Capitol Museum at 100 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39201. The Merci Train is located behind the museum. A typical ride from downtown Jackson will cost approximately $8-$12.

Discover more about Merci Train

The Merci Train, also known as the French Gratitude Train, is a collection of 49 boxcars gifted by France to the United States in 1949. This followed the American Friendship Train, where the U.S. sent over 700 railroad cars filled with supplies to France and Italy to assist in their recovery after World War II. In return, the French people sent a train filled with thank-you gifts, with each of the then 48 states receiving a boxcar, and one shared between Washington, D.C., and Hawaii.The boxcars, often referred to as "40 & 8" cars because they could carry 40 men or 8 horses, were originally built in the 1870s and used in both World Wars. The cars were filled with personal donations from across France, including paintings, drawings, handmade clothing, dolls, and letters. The Mississippi boxcar arrived in Jackson on February 12, 1949, and its contents were displayed at the farmer's market before being distributed to various organizations. Today, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History preserves forty objects from the Merci Train in their permanent collection.The Merci Train stands behind the Old Capitol Museum by the former GM&O depot. It serves as a reminder of the strong bond between France and the United States, and the spirit of generosity that can flourish even in the wake of devastating conflict.