Pony Express

One of my favorite things is running into people on the trail when you haven’t seen another person for a while. I like the exchange of information: Where are you from, where are you headed, how far away is this landmark? There’s something about this simple exchange of information—and the excitement about getting it, no matter how little the detail that reminds me of what it must have been like long before we got instant updates by email or could make a quick call or text.

That’s what fascinates me about the Pony Express. That need for information and connection was so great people found a way to get in touch across the miles and unknown landscape, long before technology made it possible.

Founded in 1860, “The Pony Express” was a group of tough young riders who galloped across the plains between St. Joseph, Missouri and San Francisco. Mail to California by stagecoach or ship could take up to six months to arrive. The Pony Express could get it there in 10 to 16 days.  That type of service didn’t come cheaply. It cost $5 per half-ounce for mail (about $85 dollars in today’s money).

At first the Pony Express ran once a week in each direction.  Later it ran a second weekly trip, delivering mail in 10 days or fewer between St. Joseph and San Francisco.  They followed the Oregon and California combined trail across northeastern Kansas, Nebraska and most of Wyoming before following the Mormon Road at Ft. Bridger to Salt Lake City. Riders relayed mail between stations 75 to 100 miles apart, heading out as soon as the mail arrived, year round and any time of day or night. The riders switched mounts at swing stations every 10 to 15 miles.

The Pony Express was charged with sharing important news like of President Lincoln’s election and inauguration and early information on the Civil War, but due to the expense and the completion of a telegraph system, it ended all after it began in November 1861.

The trail through Wind River Country is the same as the Oregon and California trails. When I am out exploring the trails of Wind River Country, I immediately think of the pioneers headed to Oregon and California. But there is something romantic in picturing the lone rider galloping across the plains with a mail pouch, water sack and rifle and information.