Riding along with the Pony Express!

The Pony Express

Fascinating facts about the Pony Express:

• Riders followed a route from Sacramento, California, to St. Joseph, Missouri.
• Riders were able to keep horses running full speed for most of the distance by mounting a rested horse about every 10 miles along the route.
• This service was the first main United States postal link between the east and west.
• Relay stations were placed about every 10 miles, with the third station being where fresh horses, firearms and provisions (food and supplies) were kept. It was also here that the mail would be handed over to a new rider.
• The Pony Express had about 400 ponies and more than 200 stations and was started up and ready for business in about two months.

Ride The Pony Express!

To better understand Pony Express history and method of moving the mail, you can play this game!

Materials:

• Several brooms, mops or yardsticks
• Watch with a second hand
• Old postcard, letter or small package
• Provisions (snacks, first-aid supplies, etc.)
• United States map with states, mountains, rivers and land markings for tracing Pony Express Route

Crazy about horses? Test your knowledge with AQHA’s Junior Master Horseman program. You can even earn certificates!

The Pony Express Route Map

Look at the Pony Express map. Imagine riding along with one of the many brave Pony Express riders! Make your own Pony Express adventure come to life by finding an area outside to ride your own imaginary Pony Express route and following these steps:

1. Mark Pony Express exchange stations with bandanas or flags; these stations are for mounting a fresh horse, with a new rider being ready at every third horse.
2. For a group, divide into small even groups. The goal will be for each Pony Express rider to safely and quickly carry mail along the route. Make sure everyone understands the route and routine of changing horses and riders.
3. Place game horses and provisions at stations.  For this you may want to make your own Mop Ponies to ride!
4. Take your position at the starting line. The word to start the race will be “giddy up!” This is a fun timed race for an individual or group.

Now, get going and run the route as fast as you can! (Be sure to replace provisions for other riders)