From September 1857, "it connects the two largest cities (Rochefort and La Rochelle) to the capital, thanks to the two lines that meet at "Aigrefeuille" and then join into the trunk line which continues towards Niort and Paris". Three rail lines traversed "Aunis" through "Aigrefeuille": "Under the metal canopy "Aigrefeuille" station reigned a great deal of activity because it is the junction of the La Rochelle and Rochefort lines to Paris and the La Rochelle – Rochefort line; Nearby, a small locomotive depot meets the motive power needs".