The Merci Train: A Gift of Gratitude

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.