The Pony Express’ 163rd anniversary was celebrated in style as enthusiasts and horseback riders embark on a historic, ten-day journey from Old Sacramento, Calif. to St. Joseph, Mo. Over 1,500 postal customers will witness history as their mail is delivered across the country using the same system made famous back in 1860 and 1861.
“It’s a big-rooted event in time,” said Gina Segura, a USPS spokeswoman. “It’s just a great way to keep the history of Sacramento intertwined with the postal service.”
Starting from the official Pony Express statue in Old Sacramento at 1:30 p.m. PDT on June 7, the event will run for 10 days, for 24 hours a day with riders switching off every 10 miles at various stations. The kickoff began in Sacramento and will end in St. Joseph on June 17th around 7:30 p.m. CDT.
About the Pony Express
The Pony Express served as a vital link between the East and the West during the time of the Gold Rush when thousands of people were moving westward along the Oregon Trail. It was the fastest way to deliver mail across the Rocky Mountains. The service was established prior to the Civil War, before western railroad expansion and the coast-to-coast telegraph, making it the go-to option for delivering letters in a timely manner.
About the Riders
600 riders will participate; embarking on an unforgettable journey carrying a piece of history – the traditional mochila, or rucksack, from the 1800s.
The Pony Express Oath will kick off the event, as riders from across NPEA state divisions unite before their epic adventure.
“There’s an oath that the rider must take prior to their journey, and we’ll be sending off our letters. Only 1,500 lucky customers can get their letters on the horse to make its journey across the states,” USPS’ Segura said.
Sacramento Postmaster Tanya Toedt-Fitzharris will do the swear-in for this year’s riders.
Why we Still Pay Tribute to the Pony Express
Each year, the NPEA, USPS, and history enthusiasts gather to celebrate the Pony Express. While it may have been a small chapter in American history, they honor its tradition and importance to keep its legacy alive.
“The Postal Service got involved, because the Sacramento postmaster started sending letters of sisterhood to Missouri,” Segura said. “We thought it would be a fun, unique way to get that across.”
The Sacramento Postal Customer Council initiated a heartwarming practice of exchanging sisterhood letters three years ago, using the Pony Express to deliver messages of solidarity. The state of Missouri, inspired by the gesture, joined in by sending back letters of fellowship.
Acknowledging the significance of the Pony Express in history, Rich Tatman, President of California State NPEA, emphasized the importance of keeping its story alive.
“So many things are dying out from our historical standpoint,” said Tatman. “This is something that a lot of our founding members thought would be a good thing.”
Although the Pony Express is a significant part of history, the NPEA is struggling with declining membership and waning interest due to difficulty in engaging younger individuals.
Track the Horses
The NPEA started keeping a real-time GPS location on the riders as they travel across the states. You can sign up for alerts or check the website for updates.
Source: Transport Topics
