“On April 3, 1860, a lone rider left on horseback from the gates of one of the nation’s most historic landmarks, the Pikes Peak Stables in St. Joseph, Missouri. Carrying saddlebags filled with our nations hopes and dreams, the riders traveled 2000 miles west to Sacramento, California. These brave young souls raced against nature's cruel elements and rugged terrain in an attempt to unite a country separated by distance. Today the stables continue to stand as a tribute to the legend and legacy of the Pony Express and its enduring era….” (PonyExpress.org)
On Saturday morning David and I grabbed our coffees and took ourselves on a tour of St. Joe. We stopped first at the Pony Express Museum. Both of us are embarrassed to admit that we hadn’t been to this historic landmark, right within our own city, since elementary school. We had a wonderful time relearning all of the rich history. We then headed over to the Patee House Museum a few blocks down. This beautiful building was built in 1858 as a four floor, fancy hotel. The Pony Express office was on the first floor. This museum is now filled with all kinds of history from this time. We followed Jesses James’s story, viewed a Mark Twain exhibit, learned more about the Pony Express and its legendary riders, read all about World War I, and many other things. It was a wonderful morning and a great experience. I get so excited about our city the more I learn about it. Here are some pictures from the day.
\David outside the Pikes Peak Stables
We read how each rider went about 75-90 miles before handing off the mail to the next rider.
The actual contract beginning the Pony Express
Sitting side saddle like a true lady
The well from the original stables.
David admired a lot of guns and coins in our tour. I don't understand how cool they are, but he tells me this is awesome.
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