This boxcar was used in World War II to haul troops and supplies to and from the front lines. It is one of 49 sent to this country from the Republic of France in 1949 as a gift of appreciation.

The cars, known as French Gratitude or Merci Train, were France's grateful response to America's earlier aid to this war stricken country. In 1947 the United States had come to France's aid with food, clothing, and medical supplies totally over 40 million dollars. This was accomplished as a private relief effort from every part of America. In return French War Vetrans selected 49 boxcars and filled them with paintings, wine, perfumes, hats, books and other precious French gifts. The shields, each representing each of the 40 Provinces of France were added and one car was sent to each US State Capital.