On April 3, 1860, a lone rider, the first of his kind, left Pikes Peak Stables in St. Joseph, marking the start of the Pony Express. Brave riders, carrying saddlebags filled with our nation’s hopes and dreams, traveled more than 2,000 miles west to California.
Today, the stables house a modern, interactive and educational tribute to the history and legend of the Pony Express. Experience exciting, educational, state-of-the-art exhibits chronicling the need, creation, operation and termination of the Pony Express.
Whatever your age, you’re sure to be captivated by the stories and images of an era long passed. A 60-foot diorama depicts the diverse terrain over which the riders traveled.
In the newly opened Hall of Riders, you can learn about life on the Trail, hear stories of the riders’ hair-raising adventures and see historic photographs of 22 famous and lesser known Pony Express riders, including Johnny Fry, Buffalo Bill and Broncho Charlie Miller. On display are authentic objects from the riders’ personal collections — like Robert Strickland’s saddle, donated by his descendants; new rider added James Benjamin “Bean” Hamilton and his exciting life history and the finding of his picture in a family attic; and updated mannequins in the museum, a mother and two children. We have added a life skills learning experience throughout the museum.
Today, the Stables continue to stand as a tribute to the legend and legacy of the Pony Express and its enduring era.
