The Pony Express Trail

in Nemaha County, Kansas

As 1860 approached, the country had just gone through a great migration due to the opening of the Oregon Territory for settlement and the discovery of gold in California. Numerous people moved west of the Rocky Mountains and the Pony Express was established as a means of maintaining communication with them.

From Arpil 3, 1860 to October 28, 1862, Pony Express riders carried mail in relays from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California. It cost nearly $100,00 to put the Pony Express in operation. It cost $5 to mail a half-ounce letter.

Although the Pony Express was in operation for only eighteen months, it still stands as one of the most popular historic trails in Kansas. The Pony Express passed through the northeast corner of Kansas bisecting Nemaha County in half.

Stops along the trail in Nemaha County included Granada, Log Chain Ranch, Seneca, and Ash Point.