The Merci Train

The Merci Train was given to the United States by France. At the time it was given to us there were 49 French railroad box cars for the lower 48 American states. Parades in these states were attended by a great many people in order to receive the boxcars and gifts. There were tens of thousands of gifts inside each boxcar gifted to the USA. The French awarded the train for our help in the Second World War. It was also meant as a means to re- solidify our friendship, which began when America gained independence.

In Cheyenne, Wyoming there is one boxcar from the Merci train. On the side it says Train De La Reconnaissance Francaise. The boxcar is not a museum exhibit, but instead located in front of American Legion Number 6 at Lincolnway and Big Horn. On the side of the train are the French and American flags, as well as several different Coats of Arms. The train is closed off by a gate, with lock. This means visitors cannot go inside the boxcar, but can view the outside. It is painted gray with train doors on both sides. Nearby is the Big Horn Motel, Loaf n Jug Gas, and Redwood Bar and Lounge.