The Pony Express was was created by entrapaneures. Based in
St Joseph, Missouri, it started operation in April of 1860 and closed 18 months later with the advent of the new telegraph. Traversing 2,000 miles across the still wild American West, it was created to deliver mail by the fastest means available.
A good example of the free enterprise system, it’s promoters wished to demonstrate the feasibility of the “Central Route” to California, in hope of gaining the million-dollar government mail contract for the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company. During its short existence, the promoters spent $700,000, having lost $200,000 when they closed down the operation of the system.
Some historians have accepted Johnny Fry as the first Pony Express rider from St Joseph, Missouri. While some still contest that judgment. While not in a position to judge, editors here at Online Highways have received correspondence from a descendant of Billy Richardson, (One of the first Pony Express riders hired), with the claim that her ancestor was the true first rider from St. Joseph. We do wish to acknowledge Mr. Billy Richardson as an Old West Hero, and thank his descendant, of Kiowa, Colorado for her contribution.
The National Park Service has documented the The Pony Express National Historic Trail and has it listed on their website which you may visit by selecting the link above.
