The Georgia 300 - Obama Inauguration Train Car

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the historical significance and public perception of The Georgia 300, a train car associated with the Obama inauguration. Participants share anecdotes, historical context, and personal experiences related to the train car and its past.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • One participant provides background on The Georgia 300, noting its original name, General Polk, and links to external resources for further information.
  • Another participant shares a historical anecdote about Leonidas Polk, detailing his death during the Civil War and the significance of his sword's auction, suggesting a rich provenance for The Georgia 300.
  • A participant mentions having possibly seen the private car at Union Station in St. Louis, indicating its presence in public spaces.
  • Several participants comment on the train car's popularity among spectators during the inauguration, suggesting it has become one of the most photographed railroad cars, with links to various photographs.
  • One participant humorously remarks that the "Cannoball Express has met its match," implying a playful competition between historical trains.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a shared interest in the historical context and public fascination with The Georgia 300, but there is no explicit consensus on its significance or the details surrounding its history.

Contextual Notes

Some claims rely on personal anecdotes and external links, which may not provide comprehensive historical accuracy. The discussion includes varying levels of knowledge about the train car and its historical figures.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in American history, Civil War memorabilia, or the cultural significance of presidential inaugurations may find this discussion relevant.

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Leonidas Polk was scouting Union positions from a high vantage with some other officers, when Union artillery started pot-shotting all that Rebel brass. He refused to give ground, and was cut down by a cannon-ball. I coordinated the auction at which his sword was sold, and spent a great deal of time learning about him - collectors of Confederate memorabilia are the most knowledgeable collectors ever, and it's easier to solicit bids if you're educated. Not a bad provenance for the Georgia 300.
 
I think I've seen that private car in person, possibly at Union Station in St. Louis. Several private cars are maintained there.
 

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