After World War II ended, the French began rebuilding their ravaged nation and were in great need of everyday necessities. A Washington newspaper-man’s suggestion that America come to their aid with a “Friendship Train” caught fire. The train went from Los Angeles to New York, adding cars along the way. It came though Ames in November 1947 and locals responded wholeheartedly as did all Iowa towns on the route. Learn the history of this humanitarian effort from David Mills, Associate Professor, US Army Command/General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

2023 Lecture Series presented in partnership by Ames History Museum and Ames Public Library. All lectures free and open to the public. Attend in person at Ames Public Library or online – link at ameshistory.org/calendar.