Mesh coin purse

Sometimes, friendship can begin with a simple “thank you.” In 1947, at the close of World War II, Hoosiers joined a nationwide effort to load a train with food and supplies to assist the people of France. The train stopped to add goods in South Bend, Elkhart, and Fort Wayne on its way overseas. In gratitude, the French responded with the Merci Train. It was loaded with dolls, porcelain, artwork, clothing, and battle-torn flags donated personally by French citizens. The boxcars were sent back to the U.S., one for each state. When the Indiana boxcar reached Indianapolis, it was placed on a semitruck and paraded through the city until it reached the Indiana War Memorial, where the contents were distributed to museums and schools throughout the state.

 

Among the items gifted to The Children’s Museum was this silver mesh purse. A handwritten note inside the purse is in French. Translated, it reads: “An old grandmother of 9 grandchildren (including a 3-year-old killed in the bombings of 1944) sends you this little souvenir which is very dear to her; for it belonged to his poor mother; she sends you this in recognition of what our good friends the Americans are doing for the French with a great thank you and our most sincere greetings. A. Boos, 42 Rue du General Sarrail, Orleans, France

We would be happy to know if our shipment has arrived safely.”