On April 3rd, 1860, the Pony Express began its ten day mail service between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California. Looking for a lucrative federal mail contract, the Russell, Majors and Waddell Company quickly set up 190 relay stations and hired on 100 young riders for their new mail delivery service. Covering 1840 miles across the West, the Pony Express shaved 18 days from the average time it took for the Overland Stage delivery. Lasting just 18 months, the Leavenworth & Pike's Peak Express Company became legendary with its courageous young riders galloping across the Great Plains with their all important leather mochila draped over the saddle.
   Pictured here is the only remaining Pony Express Home Station at its original site. Completed just prior to the inauguration of the Express, the Marysville Station was known as Relay Station 1. Now a museum, the Kansas station received a little TLC during a refurbishment project in 1991. Exhibits include a blacksmith shop, Pony Express rider bunks, original post office boxes, original artwork and statuary, and a replica of an Overland stagecoach.
   Each year the National Pony Express Association recreates a commemorative re-ride over the original route, taking the same 10 day period. Over 550 riders participate in the eight state event and ride 24 hours every day until the letter laden mochila is delivered.

     Area Map
     Pony Express National Historic Trail Map