The Pony Express

 

• It started on April 3, 1860.
• It was founded by William Waddell, William Russel, and Alexander Majors.
• They started it to deliver messages, newspapers, mail, even small packages from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California.
• Each trip took about 8 to 10 days.
• There were stations along the way for the riders to get fresh horses.
• An estimated 400 horses in total were used by the Pony Express to deliver the mail.
• A Pony Express rider would change horses 8 to 10 times.
• Either Johnny Fry or Billy Richardson are believed to be the first rider for the Pony Express.
• Three of the most famous riders for the Pony Express were William Cody (Buffalo Bill), Robert Haslam, and Jack Keetley.
• The Pony Express ended in October 1861. Telegraphs ended the need for the Pony Express.