The Pony Express

On the 3rd of April 1860 the Waddell and Russell freight company started the Pony Express.
They employed young me to ride between relay stations across the continent at breakneck speed carrying mail in specially designed saddle bags.
It took only minutes to hand over the mail bags to the next rider.
They bought 500 ponies and employed 200 young men who travelled between 150 relay stations.
The could cross from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California in 10 days calling at Salt Lake City, Utah.
Riders had to face the rough countryside, the harsh climate and sometimes hostile Indians.
They weren't allowed to swear or drink and were issued with a bible, a shotgun and a rifle.
The Pony Express lasted for only 2 years.
On 22nd October 1861, the first telegraph was sent across America, so there was no further need for an express mail service.

Zusammenfassung der Ressource

	Erstellt von livmills97 vor fast 11 Jahre