1949What is the French 'Gratitude Train' of 1949?
The French 'Gratitude Train,' or 'Train de la Reconnaissance Française,' arrived in New York City on February 3, 1949, as a heartfelt thank you from the people of France to the citizens of America. This extraordinary gesture followed America's postwar relief efforts, most notably the bustling Friendship Train, which sent over 700 boxcars of food and aid to war-torn Europe in 1947. Packed with more than 52,000 gifts from French citizens of all walks of life, the 49 iconic 'Hommes 40 et Chevaux 8' boxcars—once used to transport troops in wartime—became cherished symbols of international gratitude, each bearing shields for France's provinces. Arizona's own Merci Train boxcar, restored and exhibited today, continues to remind visitors of this enduring story of generosity and friendship nearly eight decades later.
