1970's train route london to Lourdes

[jay146]

Hello

I wonder if anyone here could possibly help me? My Grandfather passed away many years back (1977) whilst on a train making his way from London to Lourdes.

I need a copy of his death certificate which (in France) is only be available in the local townhall to the village in which he passed away. Would anyone know the route in which the train would have made? I could then contact all the townhalls en-route.

Its an odd request I know, but any help whatsoever would be appreciated.

Many thanks

 

[Gloster]

I would start with Lourdes as it is always possible that the death was not noticed until waking up time. Was he travelling in a small group, which might travel in regular trains, which would probably involve crossing Paris under their own steam? Or was he using a pilgrimage special; I believe that British groups would share the cost of a special train with groups from the north of France and then join the train at Calais, Boulogne or Dunkerque. The through night regular trains from Paris seem to have run via the route through Poitiers and Bordeaux; a special train could have run that way or via Limoges and Toulouse, or even via Dijon, Lyon and Montpellier.

Have you found the identity of the group or church who organised the trip (if he wasn’t travelling alone or in a small group)? Even if there is nobody left to remember, the group or church’s newsletter might say something.

 

[randyrippley]

I'm sure a similar question was discussed on here 3-4 years ago, possibly longer

==edit==

couple of previous threads

Vintage Lourdes pilgrimage trains

When I was at school in the 70's they took part in an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes which was by train and ferry. I never went as I'm not interested in religion although the train journey would have been interesting. Those who did go told me the route was via the Dover - Calais ferry and a...

www.railforums.co.uk

London to Lourdes (France)

in 1965 I remember going on a school pilgrimage to Lourdes by train after a crossing of the channel. It was a direct train which took forever, although I am not sure where it began I have Le Havre in mind, although that seems unlikely. I know we didn't go into Paris and I do recall stopping at...

www.railforums.co.uk

may give you somewhere to start