No event In American history has captured the imagination of young and old alike more than the Pony Express.This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Pony Express. On April 3, 1860, a lone rider, Johnny Fry, left on horseback from the gates of one of the nation’s most historic landmarks, the Pikes Peak Stables in St. Joseph, Missouri. Today the stables continue to stand as a tribute to the legend and legacy of the Pony Express and its enduring era. Carrying saddlebags filled with nation’s hopes and dreams, the riders traveled 2,000 miles to Sacramento, California. The Central Overland and California Pikes Peak Express Company carried letters and telegrams for 19 months proving the train and pony with riders could make the trip over 1,966 miles in 10 to 14 days.
St. Joseph will recapture the excitement of those days when it celebrates that first ride on April 1, 2 and 3. Among the celebrations will be a Buffalo Bill Look-Alike Contest, a Chuck Wagon Dinner, a Pony Express Bridle and Saddle Parade and the Sesquicentennial Banquet, 6:30 p.m. There will be various events throughout the year.
The Pony Express National Museum in St. Joseph will be at the core of the celebrations. Its state-of-the-art exhibits illustrate the need, creation, operation and termination of the Pony Express. Whatever your age, you’re sure to be captivated by the stories and images on an era long passed.
For more information about top events in Missouri, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Missouri at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-missouri.html
Or, for more details and information take a look at the official web site for St. Joseph at www.stjomo.com/