• Photos from St. Joseph, Photos by Suzanne King, Missouri Chapter
• Photos from Nebraska, by Tim Gibbens
• California Division 2007 Swearing In Dinner, Photos by Tom Crews. Here is a report.
• Photos from Wyoming, by Karen Bennett, SE WY Division of the National Pony Express
• Photos from Utah, taken with an old wet plate camera by Gerald Hasty.
• Photos from Camp Floyd, Utah, by Don Nehring
• Photos from Simpson Springs, by Ray Delaney
• Photos from Simpson Springs, by Beverley Heffernan. Here is her report with descriptions of photos.
• Photos from Cold Springs to Sand Springs, Nevada, by Barbara Rosenberger. Here is her report.
• Schellbourne Re-Riders, Ely, Nevada, by Dawn Brown. Here is her report.
• The Mail Arrives in Old Sacramento, Photos by Tom Crews. Here is his report.
• Pictures from Wyoming/Utah Border, by Sherry Gage Utah Rider
• Ft. Churchill to Carson City, Nevada, photos by Debi Royer, Ride Captain. Here is her report.
• Photos from California, photos by Dennis Larson. Here is his report.
• More Photos from California, photos by Ron and Diane Norton
• 2007 Reride photos from the Utah Division, Mark Jenkins photographer
• Photos from Nevada, by Gary Nezos, Vice President, Nevada Division. Here is his report.
• More Photos from Nevada, by Mary Kuckenmeister, Nevada Division
• Pictures from SE Wyoming, provided by Lou Mayberry and her husband Michael. Here is Donnie Norvell's report.
• Photos from Simpsons Spring, Utah, by Jill Wilkins. (Katrina Van Uitert is riding the palamino paint Honey Babe. Jill Wilkins is riding Smokey (grey).

The Patee House and Pony Express Historical Association will host a traditional Departure Ceremony in St. Joseph. The rider will depart the 1860 Pony Express Headquarters there at 10:00am, Monday, June 11.

Arrive St. Joseph Bridge
Monday, June 11, 10:00am

Arrive Horton, Kansas
Monday, June 11, 4:00pm

Pony Express riders will stop in Horton for a few minutes giving people time to meet and visit with the riders.

Depart Horton, Kansas
Monday, June 11, 4:15pm

Depart HWY 75 (Sac & Fox)
Monday, June 11, 6:15pm

Arrive Seneca Museum
Monday, June 11, 9:00pm

Pony Express riders will stop at the Seneca Museum for a few minutes giving people time to meet and visit with the riders.

Depart Seneca Museum
Monday, June 11, 9:30pm

Depart Seneca Rural Water Office
Monday, June 11, 10:00pm

Depart Summit (HWY 99)
Tuesday, June 12, 1:15am

Arrive Guittard Station
Tuesday, June 12, 2:30am

Pony Express riders will stop at Guittard Station for a few minutes giving people time to meet and visit with the riders.

Depart Guittard Station
Tuesday, June 12, 2:45am

Arrive Marysville, Kansas
Tuesday, June 12, 4:15am

Pony Express riders will stop in Marysville for a few minutes giving people time to meet and visit with the riders.

Depart Marysville, Kansas
Tuesday, June 12, 4:30am

Arrive Hollenberg Station
Tuesday, June 12, 6:45am

Pony Express riders will stop at Hollenburg Station for a few minutes giving people time to meet and visit with the riders.

Depart Hollenberg Station
Tuesday, June 12, 7:00am

Arrive Rock Creek Station
Tuesday, June 12, 10:00am

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Rock Creek Station for an Exchange and Interpretation.

Depart Rock Creek Station
Tuesday, June 12, 10:30am

Depart HWY 53 (near bridge)
Tuesday, June 12, 1:00pm

Arrive Oak, Nebraska
Tuesday, June 12, 4:30pm

The Pony Express Riders will take a short break at Oak.

Depart Oak, Nebraska
Tuesday, June 12, 5:00pm

Depart Oregon Trail Marker
Tuesday, June 12, 9:00pm

Depart Susan Hill Grave
Wednesday, June 13, 12:00am

Depart Plum Creek
Wednesday, June 13, 5:30am

Arrive Willow Island Station, Cozad City Park
Wednesday, June 13, 8:30am

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Cozad for Breakfast and Exchange.

Depart Cozad, Nebraska
Wednesday, June 13, 10:00am

Depart Midway Station
Wednesday, June 13, 11:15am

Arrive Machettes Station, Gothenburg City Park
Wednesday, June 13, 11:30am

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Gothenburg for Lunch and Exchange.

Depart Gothenburg, Nebraska
Wednesday, June 13, 12:00pm

Depart Brady, Nebraska
Wednesday, June 13, 1:45pm

Depart North Platte, Nebraska
Wednesday, June 13, 4:45pm

Depart Paxton, Nebraska
Wednesday, June 13, 8:15pm

Depart Big Springs
Thursday, June 14, 12:00am

Depart Colorado/Nebraska State Line (Chappell, Nebraska)
Thursday, June 14, 3:30am

Arrive Mud Springs Station Marker
Thursday, June 14, 7:30am

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Mud Springs Station for Breakfast and Exchange.

Depart Mud Springs
Thursday, June 14, 8:30am

Depart Bridgeport, Nebraska
Thursday, June 14, 9:30am

Arrive Chimney Rock
Thursday, June 14, 10:30am

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Chimney Rock for Refreshments and Exchange.

Depart Chimney Rock
Thursday, June 14, 11:00am

Arrive Scotts Bluff National Monument
Thursday, June 14, 12:00pm

The Pony Express Riders will stop at Scotts Bluff for Exchange and a Short Break.

Depart Scotts Bluff
Thursday, June 14, 1:00pm

Depart Torrington, Wyoming
Thursday, June 14, 4:00pm

Depart Old Bedlam (Fort Laramie), Wyoming
Thursday, June 14, 6:00pm

Depart Guernsey, Wyoming
Thursday, June 15, 7:30pm

Depart Glendo, Wyoming
Thursday, June 15, 12:00am (Midnight)

Depart Douglas, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 3:00am

Depart Glenrock, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 7:15am

Depart National Historic Trails Center, Casper, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 10:00am

Depart Fort Caspar, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 10:30am

Depart Martin's Cove Visitor's Center, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 5:00pm

Depart Jeffery City, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 8:00pm

Depart Sweetwater Station, Wyoming
Friday, June 15, 10:00pm

Depart Atlantic City, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 3:00am

Depart South Pass City, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 4:00am

Depart Farson, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 9:00am

Depart Green River Crossing, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 10:30am

Depart Granger, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 1:00pm

Depart Lyman, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 3:00pm

Depart Fort Bridger, Wyoming
Saturday, June 16, 5:00pm

Depart Wyoming/Utah State Line
Saturday, June 16, 9:30pm

Depart “This is The Place” Heritage Park
Sunday, June 17, 4:30am

Depart Murray Park
Sunday, June 17, 6:00am

Depaert Eagle Mountain
Sunday, June 17, 9:00am

Depart Stagecoach Inn
Sunday, June 17, 10:00am

Depart Simpson Springs
Sunday, June 17, 3:00pm

Depart Callao
Sunday, June 17, 10:00pm

Depart Overland Pass (West)
Monday, June 18, 6:00pm

Depart Grubb's Well
Tuesday, June 19, 1:00am

Depart Railroad Pass
Tuesday, June 19, 9:00am

Depart Cold Springs
Tuesday, June 19, 2:00pm

Depart Sand Mountain
Tuesday, June 19, 6:30pm

Depart Shurz Highway
Tuesday, June 19, 11:30pm

Depart Ft Churchill
Wednesday, June 20, 2:30am

Depart Carson City
Wednesday, June 20, 7:30am

Arrive Friday's Station, Stateline, Nevada
Wednesday, June 20, 12:30pm

Depart Camp Sacramento
Wednesday, June 20, 4:11pm

Depart Strawberry
Wednesday, June 20, 4:56pm

Depart XP Corral
Wednesday, June 20, 5:36pm

Depart Kyburz Dump
Wednesday, June 20, 6:56pm

Depart Brockliss Bridge
Wednesday, June 20, 11:21pm

Note: Rider arrives Fresh Pond 11:51pm for a 27 minute wait time.

Depart Fresh Pond
Thursday, June 21, 12:18am

Depart Sportsmans Hall
Thursday, June 21, 1:18am

Depart Camino Post Office
Thursday, June 21, 1:50am

Depart Hangtown Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, June 21, 2:55am

Depart Diamond Springs Post Office
Thursday, June 21, 3:55am

Depart Rescue Post Office
Thursday, June 21, 5:10am

Depart Pleasant Grove House
Thursday, June 21, 5:45am

Note: Rider arrives Folsom Museum at 7:10am for a 18 minute wait time.

Departs Folsom Museum
Thursday, June 21, 7:25am

Departs Sunrise
Thursday, June 21, 8:29am

Departs Discovery Park
Thrusday, June 21, 11:14am

Reports from the Trail

From: Donnie Norvell, XP rider, Platte/Goshen Counties, Douglas,Wyoming
Received: June 29

Here are some more pictures from SE Wyoming.These are courtesy from my Aunt Lou Mayberry and her husband Michael who rode along on the ride from Henry,NE to Glendo,WY.

Pictures 1-4 are taken at the WY/NE stateline (Henry).
Picture 3 is of my Mom and Dad,Morris and Julia Norvell who rode along and drove the truck and trailer.
Pictures 5-8 are of when the mochila met me three miles inside Wyoming.
Picture 5 has us loading the mochila onto my Pryor Mountain Mustang Maggie.
Pictures 6 and 7 are a couple of quick poses of Maggie and me.
Picture 8 we are taking off
Picture 9 is of Stan Bean, his horse, and Maggie at the start of his ride with Maggie for the tribute ride for Jeff Sawyer.

Everybody riding along had a good time.It was a fun adventure that I think made everyone who participated whether riding horses or riding along part of American history.

From: Gary Nezos, Vice President, Nevada Division
Received: June 26

I had a great ride this year. As promised last year I rode a new hores named Bodie.He was a little green at the start of the ride, but by the time the ride was over he was as polished as the chrome on a 59 CADDIE. Thanks to Mary Kuckenmeister for the company. I would like to thank all the riders of the Nevada Pony Express for their great and safe riding. Thanks to our president, Steve Notterman, for his effort in keeping us all focused on the re-ride. We are looking forward to next year. I'll bet Bodie will be more than ready. I have attached some pictures of our route. Everyone out there ride safe and happy trails.

From: Dennis Larson, Californiua NPEA
Received: June 24

Here is a picture of me and my horse Rookie. We are at the Pony Express Monumenet at Sportsman's Hall in Pollock Pines at about 1245am waiting for the Mochilla to come in. Rookie is a Percheron/quarter crosss. She is 17 years old, I've owned her for the last 16 years. When the Mochilla was exchanged we headed out at a nice trot and held that pretty much most of the way the 4 miles into Camino.

Here is a picture of Ray Soon a brand new member with my Arab, Donnie. Donnie is 27 years old, I've owned him for about 14 years. Ray has been riding Donnie on trail rides with me for about the last 10 years. I thought Rookie might need to have some company on the trail since she's never been out really by herself like that and Ray stepped and even joined the XP.

After my 1 am ride in Pollock Pines, California I went home and got a little nap. I went down to Old Sacto to see the Pony Express Rider come in atd 1130am. There were quite a few people there, some just to see the XP come in and a lot of tourists who just happened to be there. The weather was really nice too. Riders were riding up and down the street looking great in the their red shirts and brown vests. Then I looked down the street when I noticed several news cameras had their cameras pointed in the same direction and here cam Red Dixon the final rider. He was being led by the Sacramento Police Dept and The California Highway Patrol Mounted Units, and XP Riders Honor Guard . If that wasn't enough about 15 XP riders were behind him!!

From: Heidi Agler, California NPEA
Received: June 23, 7:52am PDT

Steve Pool and I picked up the Mochila from George Davis and Pam Andrews at White Meadows and were heading to the Brockliss Crossing at 10:31pm. It was an absolutely gorgeous night! A sliver of the moon thru the trees cast a faint shadow just enough for us to see without the need for flashlights, so we were able to trot the entire section. We got the Mochila across the American River to Lee Hofer who then moved it to Fresh Pond. With all of our efforts, both horse and human, we had it to Fresh Pond 45 minutes ahead of schedule! We enjoyed a midnight dinner at Freshpond hosted by XP rider Janet Kampf and friends and then off to follow the Pony to Old Sacramento. Another fabulous re-ride. We feel truly honored to be part of such an incredible event! Thank-you everyone.

From: Debi Royer, Ride Captain, Ft. Churchill to Carson City
Received: June 21, 6:45pm PDT

The section from Ft. Churchill to Carson City Nevada received the mail nearly four hours behind schedule at 7:20 am. Several riders arrived at Ft. Churchill the designated 2 hours before schedule never thinking the mail would be as late as it was. We had to wait until after 3:30 am to find out that Marcia Moffit Ride Captian from Shurz Hwy to Ft. Churchill had finally got the mail from the group who had not been able to get the mail thru in their allotted time. The riders that were waiting were our National President Dave Sanner, his friend Kenny Nelson, Nevada President Steve Notterman, myself, Mike, Mary and Traci Kuckenmeister, Scott Notterman and his brother-in-law Brian Avila, and our two Radio guys Tim and Ken. We all sat around talking and telling horse stories. It was a beautiful evening the stars were so bright. We also got to watch the sun come up before the mail came.

Mike, Mary and daughter Traci Kuckenmeister rode the first 10 miles of the section (talk about cowboy up - Mike lost his father this week to cancer and he and his family were still willing to come out and ride - riders like this really know that "the mail must go through"). They passed the mochila off to Gary Nezos, Mary accompanied Gary on his section since he was riding a very green horse who happened to accept the whole affair well. The mail was passed to Rebecca Stacey - a first time pony rider - at the Ft. Churchill and Hwy 50 intersection (visualize 5 lane major Hwy). Several pony riders stepped out onto the Highway and stopped the traffic so the riders could pass safely.

I picked the mail up from Rebecca in Dayton and rode 5 miles on my Arabian Skeeter (who happens to know what being a PONY horse is all about - even at 27 years old he can still make the miles pass quickly), he was so excited - even at the end of his ride he ran even harder when he could see the next exchange coming up. I passed the mail on to my nephew Nick Ryan ( a third generation pony rider!). Nick passed the mail on to my dad Dale Ryan (past nevada president and past national president) and he rode the mail in to the outskirts of Carson City where he passed the mail on the Scott Notterman and his horse Jesse. Scott brought the mail in to our exchange point in Carson City at Third and Curry Street (which happens to be the site of a former XP livery stable) at a easy gallop! We passed the mail to the next group's ride Captain Bob Moore at 11:15 am.

I want to extend a special thanks to the SIERA ham radio group - Tim and Ken, they did a grand job keeping my riders and me informed on where the mail was. They also were the escort thru Carson City -(Our police escort could not make it because they had other responsibilities - although they were ready at 6:00am when the mail should have been coming thru!!!) The radio guys truly came thru for us that day - it is so dangerous not to have an escort on city streets these days! Also, our member from Germany Peter Kwoka helped out on the escort by making sure the vehicles at the intersections were stopped so Scott did not have to wait in traffic. My section did a great job even though nearly all of us were up for 24 hours(or more!).

Here are some pictures of our ride:

1. Sun rise @ Ft. Churchill
2. First cup of coffee (Left to right Steve Notterman (NV President), Scott Notterman, Kenny Nelson, Brian Avila and Dave Sanner (National President)
3. Mary & Traci Kuckenmeister and Magnum waiting for the mail
4. Red shirts galore (L to R - Mike Kuckenmeister and his dog Joani, Mary in the background, Dave Sanner, Brian Avila, Scott & Steve Notterman)
5. Mail Finally arrives. Brian Avila, Magnum & Mary, Steve Notterman placing the Mochila
6. And - the mails off!!!
7. Gary Nezos at the end of his ride on his sorrel gelding Bodie
8. Rebecca Stacey on her grey arab at the beginning of her ride

From: Tom Crews, California Division NPEA
Received: June 21, 6:00pm PDT

The Mail arrived on time in Old Sacramento at 11:30am accompanied by an honor guard of mounted California Highway Patrolmen and City of Sacramento Police Officers, as well, as members of the California Division. About 100 people were on hand for the arrival festivities. Larry Carpenter, National Corresponding Secretary, spoke of the history of the Pony Express and the Commemorative Ride leading to today's arrival. Ed Astore, General Manager of Old Sacramento, welcomed everyone. Ed, who is retiring in August, has been a constant supporter of the Pony Express all these many years and has been a major force in the success of our annual Re-Ride Ceremonies. Rich Tatman, President, California Division, presented Ed with a certificate for "Being a Friend of the Pony Express". (Photos here.)

The final Pony Rider, Red Dixon, arrived accompanied by his daughter Pam. National President Dave Sanner unlocked the mail pouches on the mochila and delivered them to several postal employees who immediately cancled each Commemorative Letter and placed them in the mail.

So after ten days of moonless nights, and extreme weather, from torrential rain storms through Kansas and Nebraska, the lonely skies of Wyoming, dry desert heat in Utah and Nevada, and the mountains of California, the Pony Express has made another safe and successful run with little mishap and the Mail Arrived ON TIME!

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 21, 4:52am PDT

The Pony Express left Rescue Post Office at 4:50am.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 21, 4:37am PDT

The Rider left Ambush Pass about 4:34 headed toward Rescue Post Offfice.

Coming through the tight canyons of dense trees and brush made for some pitch black riding as the sliver of moon was gone. The canopy was so dense most of the ride you couldn't even see stars. Lost a little bit of trail coming down towards HWY 50, got through and across the HWY and down through the last section of trail just past Boulion Bend for the next rider. A very dark night, both rider and horse came through safely.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 10:34pm PDT

The Riders were out of White Meadow at 10:31pm.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 9:55pm PDT

At 9:48pm the Riders left Cleaveland Corral on the way to White Meadow.

From: Barbara Rosenberger, Ride Captain for Sand Springs to Cold Springs, Nevada
Received: June 20, 8:58pm PDT

What a great team of people we have for pony express!!!! A big hooahh for all the teams that got the mail back on track, ahead, on time, or just to where it needed to be! Just goes to show that rain, sleet, snow, heat, indians, snakes, and just plain ol bad luck cant stop the pony!!!!

I can't wait for the annual dinner to see all the faces of the pony again. I LOVE THIS RERIDE and all the people involved.

Have a great day and keep smiling...ya never know who's watchin!

Barbara
The gal who lives to ride, and rides to live.
Remember: It dont hurt till the bone shows.

From: Rick & Dawn Brown, Schellbourne Re-Riders
Received; June 20, 8:45pm PDT

Here are some pics from the Schellbourne Re-Riders, Ely, NV.Rick Brown picked up the mail from the Utah riders on June 17, 11:27 pm at the Monument in Ibapah, UT. It was a very dark ride, but warm, quiet, and full of stars. Beautiful. Morning brought a gorgeous sunrise and warm ride.

Pics are as follows:

1. Rick Brown and Roscoe ride towards Egan Canyon outside of Fort Schellbourne.
2. Same as above
3. Same as above. Pic taken from truck while driving.
4. Dawn Brown and Indy mount up at Fort Schellbourne.
5. Dawn Brown and Indy leave Fort Schellbourne with the mail.
6. Dawn Brown and Indy head towards Egan Canyon outside of Fort Schellbourne.

Thanks,
Rick & Dawn Brown

The Pony Express Riders left Kyburz Dump at 7:25 only 30 minutes behind schedule.

From: Martin Bross, California NPEA
Received: June 20, 5:31pm PDT

We got ahead and are making up time, leaving Camp Sacramento at 5:25pm.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 5:11pm PDT

At 5:05pm the Rider left Pow Wow up on HWY 50.

From: Martin Bross, California NPEA
Received: June 20, 5:06pm PDT

At POW WOW now with rider coming, gotta go.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 4:52pm PDT

The Rider left US50/Old50 at 4:45pm putting them about an hour and a half behind.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 3:38pm PDT

The Rider left Harrah's at 3:30pm about two hours behind schedule.

From: Elizabeth Davis, California NPEA
Received: June 20, 3:30pm PDT

At 3:20 the Mochila hit the Nevada/California State Line. Davey "Doc" Wiser is on the way to Fresh Pond.

From: Ron Norton, California Radio Control
Received: June 20, 3:19pm PDT

The Pony Express Rider just came into Harrah's and should be leaving in just a few minutes.

From: Elizabeth Davis, California NPEA
Received: June 20, 1:48pm PDT

At 12:55pm the Mochila was leaving Genoa, Nevada, and heading over the Kingsbury Grade.

From: Karen Shepherd, Roberts Creek Ranch, Nevada Division Received: June 20, 9:48am PDT

Overland Team had a great ride. We almost actually had a part of daylight. The riders that carry the mail had a hot three hour wait at their post, however the Nottermans made up alot of time and we ended up two hours ahead of time to Grub Wells.

Kathy & Kim rode theer 24 year old Mustang "King" and handed off to me, and borrowed horse Molly. We covered through the Ranch, with to my surprise was a cheering party from the other riders and several flashes from cameras. I was so pleased with my girlfriend's mare she barely made a flinch and just kept galloping onward to finish our two miles. I passed the mail off to Frank Gomez, BC. & Casey and her beautiful bay Arabian , and they handed off to Janine Vega & Sago her big black and white paint.

This year her daughter Jessi rode the mail at 14 years old for the first time on a big talldun named Tiger. We made our section in five hours (allotted 7 hours.)

We were all pleased to meet our National President & his buddy from Kansans.We had a safe, and fast ride and really enjoyed catching up with each and can't wait for The National Dinner to meet more of the other riders.

Hats off to our Ely Bunch, you guys are awesome, can't wait to meet some of youif you are ever in Elko come by The Wild Rose at the East End Shopping Center love to meet you !!!

Nevada Division Pony Rider - W. Overland - Grub Well
God Bless Karen Shepherd & Molly

BIG HUGE THANK YOUS TO BILL & CAROL FOR THE HAM RADIO WE LOVE YOU GUYS.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 20, 7:58am PDT

The Mail arrived at Fort Churchill at 7:18am PDT approximately 5 hours behind schedule.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 20, 6:14am PDT

At 5:50am the Pony passed Hooten Wells considerably behind schedule.

From: Steve
Received: June 20, 3:34am PDT

The Pony just left Schurz Highway headed for Fort Churchill. We had an incident where we almost lost a rider, but we did loose a horse. More stories on that later.

From: Barbara Rosenberger, NPEA (Cold Springs to Sand Springs, NV)
Received: June 19, 11:09pm PDT

The ride today (19th) was wonderful considering the 100+ degree weather. We picked up the mail approx. 25 minutes late at the Cold Springs Station and passed off to the Sand Springs/Top Gun (Wildcat Station) approx. 7:05 P.M. (The Sand Springs Wildcat Station was approx 10-15 minutes past our regular exchange point). We were not expecting that minor change, but we are adaptable and flexable. More time in the saddle is welcome for our riders.

We welcomed our neighbors from Nebraska, John & Jan Schell, who are following the pony across the states. John rode on our section for 1.5 miles and did a flying rider exchange to our National President Dave who rode 1.5 miles. Dave brought along Kenny Nelson from Jamestown Kansas, who rode 3.5 miles of our section. We also had a distinguished guest along for the ride by the name of Fred Searles who is 94 years young. Fred braved the heat and all of us just to see what the pony was all about.

I'd like to give a special thanks to our members Walt Lewis, Sheila Bennet, & Saunya Bolton, who gave up their horses for John, Dave and Kenny to ride. What a great group of people we have.

We hope you enjoy our pictures of the Cold Springs to Sand Springs Station Section and maybe get a little watery in the mouth seeing our after ride pot luck. We all had a blast and look forward to next year. It's never too early to think about the next ride.

Wishing all a safe and happy ride. See ya along the trail!

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 19, 9:44pm PDT

At 9:38pm PDT the mail was heading through Simpson Pass.

From: Beverley Heffernan
Received: June 19, 9:24pm PDT

We had good weather for the run from Simpson Springs to Ibapah and even the dark skies with just a sliver of a moon didn't slow us down! Here are some photos:

XP-1, The pony a few miles east of Simpson Springs
XP-2 The pony coming in to Simpson Springs
XP-3, The pony at Simpson Springs (this picture taken while horse and rider were posing for the old-timey photo posted on the web site).
XP-4, Beverley Heffernan getting the mochilla from Skip Elliott
XP-5 thru XP 8 are all me (Beverley Heffernan)
XP-9, Beverley Heffernan handing off to Stacy Kinsman
XP-10, A happy horse and rider!
XP-11 and XP-12, Jill Wilkins
XP-13 and XP-14, ranch rider at dusk on the west end of Callao.

I appreciate your hard work in maintaining this great web site! Looking forward to next year

From: Bill Andrews, Nevada NPEA
Received: June 19, 7:33pm PDT

The Pony arrived at Sand Mountain, Nevada, about 7:10 putting it about 40 minutes behind schedule.

From: David Titall, Nevada NPEA
Received: June 19, 7:26pm PDT

The Pony Left Sand Springs at 7:15 about 45 minutes behind schedule.

From: Jo Andrews, Ride Captain, Sand Mountain to Schurz Highway
Received: June 19, 7:10pm PDT

The Pony is inbound about 300 yards out of Sand Springs. They are 45 minutes behind schedule

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 19, 6:25pm PDT

At 4:50pm PDT the mail was just west of Middle Gate on HWY 50. Net Control reports that radio propagation has been very bad today resulting in less than optimum reporting.

From:Vicki Hood, Editor, Guernsey Gazette
Received: Jue 19, 5:56pm PDT

Here is a special tribute to Jeff Sawyer who passed away last November.

Here is my weekly column called Fishing in the Dark. This week's is all about my Pony Express experience this week as a rider.

Despite its short-lived tenure of just 19 months in actual service, the Pony Express and what it represented endures, a familiar icon long-associated with America's Old West. Often romanticized in story and picture, the Pony Express was the 1860's answer to "we deliver for you." It is a tailor-made part of our history that has been perpetuated by those of us who enjoy reliving those days, albeit with a much more limited and simpler version. The re-ride, as it is now called, is quite simply, groups of people covering designated areas along the original route between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California. Riders transport their horses in trailers and take turns carrying mail in a locked, four-pocketed leather mochila that fits over their saddle.

The Platte-Goshen County group covers the 92 miles between the state line near Henry, Nebraska and Glendo. We divide the route into 1.5 mile segments and alternate rides, each of us averaging two or three rides each year. I joined this group three years ago and it has been an exciting and rewarding adventure each time. This year, however, there was apparently a communication problem between my buckskin horse, Chance, and I.

Things went well for the most part-our first ride between Torrington and Lingle was just as planned. We were lucky enough to have a section of roadside that had been mowed and that makes for much safer, faster riding. Chance did everything I asked and we covered our part without incident.

With three other riders and horses in our party, we had to shuffle the horses around in the trailer as we took turns. As Chance is accustomed to riding in a trailer by herself, she is used to turning around and walking out forward rather than backing out. Horses are amazing creatures of habit and they don't forget much. (Actually, they're a lot like husbands-they have those selective memories.) So the next time we stopped to unload, she was at the back of the trailer and when untied, attempted to turn around to walk out. What she failed to realize was that she has not been trained as a circus horse. And on a trailer floor now slick with the callings of nature x 4, Chance was quickly doing an imitation of what my father would have described as "a hog on ice." With no room to spare, Chance managed to fall out of the trailer sideways, landing on her left side with her feet underneath her at a somewhat of an awkward angle. That awkward angle could also be used to describe exactly what my insides did as I witnessed this happening. There's just something a bit unnerving about seeing your horse laying on the edge of Highway 26 during 6 p.m. traffic. Historically, Chance does not panic in touchy situations. Fortunately, that held true in this situation as well. We got the trailer pulled ahead a bit so she wouldn't catch her back legs underneath and then, we coaxed her to get up, which she did. With no obvious injuries, I can't tell you the relief I felt. Not since the doctor confirmed that there was not going to be a multiple birth, have I felt that much respite. (Of course, we couldn't have known just how much more we would appreciate that reality once Randy turned two-but I can assure you we did-and still do.) After a full inspection of horse and equipment, the only visible scratches were on the saddle, and I knew we had dodged what could have been a very ugly situation. My next ride was scheduled to begin at the obstacle course near Guernsey, but we ended up riding a short stint up on the tank farm road, which she also seemed to handle with no problem. Beginning at the bend in the highway at the obstacle course, we were to ride down past the golf course, onto the river road and around past the Lucindy Rollins grave, switching out with the next rider at the turnoff that goes to Warm Springs.

The beginning of that ride was like a dream. I must take this opportunity to thank whoever it was that had the great foresight to mow the grass on the west side of the South Guernsey Highway across from the golf course. It allowed us to really run, which seems to contribute to the idea of getting the mail delivered as fast as possible. And run we did-both totally into it-seeming almost surreal. As we approached the parking area for the golf course, we began to slow. And after keeping her at the arena for several years, I knew we might have a problem getting past the entrance to the rodeo grounds but I was confident that once we got over on the river road, she would know we weren't stopping. Being outwitted by a four-legged hay burner is embarrassing-especially when you're trying to complete your portion of something that screams "get 'er done" with an abundance of witnesses to boot.

Remember that I spoke earlier of a communication problem? This was it. Either one of two things had happened. Either Chance thought the mail was addressed to Trail Ruts Golf Course OR she thought we were in Sacramento, California. (Know how you can tell the sex of a Pony Express horse? You ride 'em off the trail and the mares will stop and ask for directions!) But this clearly wasn't a case of being lost. This was a case of being "done" in her words-"stubborn" in mine. We were at a total standstill and no matter what I did, she was not going-period. I've read accounts in old newspapers about Pony Express riders being attacked by hostile Indians. It was a good thing this was just a re-ride. As I struggled to get Chance to move again, I almost expected to hear a voice say, "This is a test. It is only a test. Had it been an actual Pony Express ride, your horse would still be running."

No kidding-and had this been an actual ride, wouldn't we have made fine pickings for an angry mob of natives. Remember all those nifty Indian names they gave to their people? Well, here we sat-Sitting Duck and Standing Horse, going nowhere fast. We'd have been drug off and gone before anybody could have said "Postage is going up." Even one of the very experienced riders that actually cowboys for a living over near Riverton tried to get her to go. She was having none of it.

At least now I understand why they made us take that oath that says we'll give out only our name, boot size and zip code and more importantly, we won't use profanity or drink alcohol. Yes, the reason for that promise became very clear as we tried to get this horse to move. I finally pulled and coaxed until I convinced her to walk to the next rider, who actually rode back to meet us. I wonder if we were the only ones in the entire 1,466 miles that actually put the Pony Express in reverse? I wonder if you can get ex-communicated from the organization?

From: Keith Anderson, Second Vice President - Nevada
Received: June 19, 5:50pm PDT

It was a special re ride for me this year as two of my sons and my daughter rode this year. All of my boys have been members when they became old enough to ride, but, life took them down different paths. My daughter, however, celabrated her sixth consecutive year riding for the pony. I think she will out do her dad (21 years consecutive), but I am not done yet. It was different for me this year in another way, too. Jay Hicks, a friend of mine had passed away. So as we gathered to camp at his ranch in Ibapah there was noticable emptyness. Jay rode in the 75 anniversary ride as well as the 100 anniversary ride. A great friend to all who rode for the Pony Express he will be missed by all.

The ride itself went well. Even with no moon we made fairly good time. Most of the riders at the end of our section (140 miles) had been up for many hours as we got no sleep Sunday night. No major wrecks or accidents plagued us. This year a group of riders accompanied the mail the last 5 miles up to the top of Overland Pass, an altitude increase of 1500 feet (7925 feet elevation). Thirty-one Schellbourne re-riders participated on the ride. Eleven new riders in '07 carried their weight also.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 19, 10:25am PDT

At 9:30am the Mail was a Railroad Pass approximately 20 miles west of Austin, one hour ahead of schedule.

From: Pat Hearty, President, Utah Division NPEA
Received: June 19, 10:09am PDT

Dave and Sandy Riet’s group brought the mail into Salt Lake City from Wyoming, despite being desperately short handed, through almost impossible highway construction. Our group was able to leave Murray Park right on time at 6:00 A.M. We had a few anxious moments early Sunday, as a horse and rider went down on a Midvale street. The horse is alright, went on to carry the mail twice more, plus extra work for filming at Simpson. Kellie is recovering from a few cuts and bruises. Scary, though.

Sunday was much cooler in Utah, after a high temp of 100 on Saturday, although the winds were pretty rough in the morning. Afternoon was cool and beautiful and we cruised across the desert to Simpson Springs, where we delivered the mochila to Joe Hatch, George Lange, and company. They took off right at 3:00 P.M., and as far as I know, their trip to Ibapah was smooth and uneventful, and the Andersons in Callao may have gotten to ride in the daylight for the first time in history!

We had a German film crew with us from Lehi, Utah, to Simpson, taking footage for a documentary in Europe. They were pretty impressed with the Pony Express operation. They loved the action and the country, and we had a great time.

Thanks to all Utah riders, horses, and support folks. And hats off to every horse, rider, driver, and helper along the Trail! It is a pretty incredible thing that we do. Hope you enjoyed the ride as much as we did.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 19, 8:59am PDT

At 8:00am the Mail was approximately five miles west of Austin, one hour ahead of schedule.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 19, 6:29am PDT

The Riders crossed Green Valley Road just east of Austin, Nevada, at 6:14am.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: June 18, 5:56pm PDT

At 5:30pm the Mail was reported to be at Overland Pass about 2 hours ahead of schedule.

From: Patty Killpack
Received: June 18, 3:52pm PDT

Unbeknownst to us the mail had arrived early at the border. We were casually eating dinner in Evanston and going over the importance of being on time if not early at your designated spot with my grandson Max, who had come from Houma, La. for the summer. My sister and I have been riding for about 5 years, with her sister in law who comes from California as ground support. This was Maxs first time.

So you can imagine our surprise when we rounded the corner and were confronted by a large gathering of red shirted people. Max was out of the truck saddled and sworn in in record time. The best part was to see the smile on his face as he took off into the beautiful sunset. I don't think he realized the hughness of the organization or the job of the ride.

Another plus to this is, after my sister and I had each completed our 2 mile sections he wanted to ride the rest and of course we couldn't let him down. In all he completed a total of 14 miles thru the canyons and had the time of his life. He is already planing to scout out next years section this weekend. We apologize for the wait at the border and sincerely hope it won't happen again.

Max,rider/pattie-gram,rider/sherry-rider/susan-ground support.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: 2:41pm PDT

At 1:50pm the Rider was at Ruby Wash.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: 1:09pm PDT

At 12:15pm the Mail was 4 miles east of Ruby Valley.

From: S.I.E.R.A. Hotline
Received: 12:19pm PDT

At 11:45am the Riders crossed Long Valley Bridge 30 miles west of Schellbourne.

From: Larry Carpenter, National Corresponding Secretary, NPEA
Received: June 18, 10:36am PDT

Saturday Night,June 16, the California State Division held its Annual Ride Dinner. (You can see photos of the dinner here.) Over 70 people gathered in Diamond Springs, El Dorado County, for a evening of good food, good fellowship, taking the Pony Express Oath, receiving Updates on the Ride, a Silent Auction and Auction of XP Art, Tack, and etc.

State President Rich Tatman gave final instructions on California's Ride Operation Plan. So California, with its 44 Rides, and its horses, is ready to carry the mail out of the Tahoe Basin, over Echo Summit, and down through the woods of the El Dorado National Forest, over the South Fork of the American River at Brockliss Bridge, and through Pollock Pines, on Pony Express Trail, and across Apple Hill country, to old Hangtown (Placerville, on the Map), and down through the foothills to the old railhead at Folsom.

A big Welcome Ceremony will be held at the Folsom History Museum (old Wells Fargo & XP Relay Station) above the old railyard, and then down the trail along the American River to Old Sacramento. There the 2007 Ride ends at the Pony Rider Monument in Pony Express Plaza. Across the street is the BF Hastings Bldg, the site of the 1860 Pony Express Agency where Sam Hamilton would pick up or deliver the mail. Long live the Pony Express !"

From: A Schellbourne Re-Rider
Received: June 18, 8:32am PDT

The Mail passed through Fort Schellbourne at 6:45am.

From: Reid Ross, W7HOP
Received: June 18, 12:48am PDT

At 11:27 PM PDT the Pony crossed over into Nevada. Having rough time with communications due to static crashes. Well advise when any new news is received.

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 11:24pm PDT

At 00:21 MDT on June 18, 2007, The Pony Express reached Ibapah, Utah, near the Utah/Nevada Border. This finishes the Utah leg of the trek, It was a great ride through Utah, and we look forward to seeing the mail ride again next year. Looking back at our past, as we have done with this re-ride, is a fine opportunity to see how far we have come as a nation and as a people. Thanks to all who participated in this fine event.

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 9:59pm PDT

At 2251 local time, The pony passed through Canyon Station. The last station before Ibapah, Where we sill hand off tracking to the Nevada teams. Less than 15 miles from now.

Perfect weather, a bit of wind though. In the 70's for temperature. All is well.

From: Donnie Norvell, XP Rider in the Wheatland Group SE Wyo. DIV. Douglas,Wyoming
Received: June 17, 9:50pm PDT

This is my first year riding in the NPEA Re-ride. Got into it to ride this year for Jeff Sawyer who passed on this last November. Had a lot of fun.

The Nebraska group met us in Henry, NE, about 3:45pm on Jun. 14th. Angie was the first rider to take it into Wyoming.I was third inside Wyoming to take the mail 1.5 miles. I took it about three miles inside the Wyoming line and rode to about the 4.5 marker and handed the mail off to Jamie.

I met Stan Bean at his run about 21 miles inside Wyoming. He took Maggie, (My Pryor Mountain Mustang) who use to be one of Jeff Sawyer's horses. Stan led Maggie with the Mochila with a Paint horse for a commorative ride for Jeff Sawyer in honor of his memory.

Went to about 1.5 before Ft. Laramie and met the Mochila. Got the Mochila from Erin and rode passed Ft. Laramie as there were only one gate into and out of the fort open and we were trying to make up time. Handed the mail off to Sheryl. Followed the group until we got to Wendover road and found my next stretch about three miles north of Casa Rd. Had to wait there until about 1:00am on the 15th. Got the Mochila from Erin again and rode about 1.5 miles till I got to Jamie again. Got to Glendo and seen Stan Bean Bringing the mail in around 1:30am on the 15th. Seen it leave Glendo with Dick Garrison's group from Douglas shortly after.

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 8:25pm PDT

At 2112 local, the Mail passed the Pony Express Marker at Callao Utah. Getting ever closer to the Utah Nevada border.

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 7:29pm PDT

At 2017hrs local, the mail passed Boyd Station in Utah. Weather is holding and the pony is making good pace. We are getting closer to the end of the Utah portion of the re-ride.

From: Dave Sanner, President, NPEA
Received: June 17, 9:09am PDT

We got the Mail into Utah early. They came down through Echo Canyon in good shape. Then handed off to the Pat Hearty Bunch at Murray Park. Had a good ride. Just left Camp Floyd headed up Lookout Pass.

From: Chris Houser, Net Control
Sent: June 17, 7:05am PDT

As of 0751 MST Pony Express riders were just passing Thanksgiving Point, heading southbound.Last update of position was at 0821 PDT, June 16.

-Chris KD7ZKQ Net Control

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 4:17am PDT

This is the 2007 Pony Express Re-Run status update for Sunday, June 17, at 4:31 a.m. MDT. The mail arrived at the "This is the Place Monument" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Officers of the Salt Lake City Police Department are escorting the Re-enactment Team through Salt Lake City this Fathers Day morning. The weather has been great, with a north breeze keeping things comfortable.

From: Mike Renlund, Pony Express Re-Run Utah Division Radio Team, sponsored by the Davis County Amateur Radio Club:
Received: June 17, 3:54am PDT

This is the 2007 Pony Express Re-Run status update for Sunday, June 17: At 4:31 a.m. MDT, the mail arrived at the "This is the Place Monument" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Officers of the Salt Lake City Police Department are escorting the Re- enactment Team through Salt Lake City this Fathers Day morning. The weather has been great, with a north breeze keeping things comfortable.

At 0445 hrs. the rider is back in the saddle, headed west down the canyon.

N7CRG, wem.

From: Les Bennington, President, Wyoming Division, NPEA
Received: June 16, 7:37pm PDT

Delivered the Mail to the Utah Bunch at the Wyoming/Utah State Line about an hour and twenty minutes early.

From: Mike, Clearfield ECC
Received: June 16, 7:31pm PDT

Have the Pony Express right at the Barker Ranch at the Border of Wyoming and Utah about an hour ahead of schedule so they are taking a little bit of time there before coming into Utah. Any questions, the number here is (801) 525-2749. We will be tracking them from this station continuosly throughout the State of Utah through amateur radio.

From: Patsy Lange, Utah Division
Received: June 16, 4:48pm PDT

Just talked with Les Bennington, Wyoming Division. They left Fort Bridger today at 2:30 about two and a half hours ahead of schedule. Everything going good. They are having a good ride.

From: John & Missy Harris, Sweetwater County, Wyoming
Sent: June 16, 7:04pm PDT

This was our sixth year with the Pony Express. Our ride this year was about 20 miles East of Granger, WY and we would carry the mail four miles further west. It was going to be a beautiful day. At 6 am it was already 54 degrees. The sun was shining and the wind wasn’t blowing yet.

We loaded our two horses into the trailer and were on our way by 7:30. It is about a two hour drive to our spot. We got there at 9:20 and figured the mail would arrive sometime between 10 and Noon. My husband was going to be riding a new horse this year, Dark Moon Rising; aka Giraffe. I was riding my BLM Mustang, Bullseye for the fourth year. We got everything ready and then settled in for the wait. Waiting for the mail is the hardest part. We were sitting on the horse trailer, enjoying the beautiful day when I noticed Bullseye looking up the trail. There they were, horse trailers, headed our way. We knew the Mail wouldn’t be far behind; it was 10:30. The trailers pulled up and we asked where the Pony was and they said it was coming…and there they are. A horse and rider galloping towards us with a cloud of dust in their wake. Tighten the girth, calm the horse, calm myself. There is something about seeing that rider coming at me that always tightens my chest and brings tears to my eyes.

They’re here. The mochilla is handed off, thrown onto the back of Giraffe, John jumps on and they are off. WAIT! Wait for us! My saddle is sideways but John and Giraffe are moving away. I am yelling at them to slow down, trying to fix my saddle; Bullseye is refusing to wait, he doesn’t want to be left behind. I got them to stop, for an instant, one good tug on the saddle and it is in the middle of Bullseye’s back and we are off. Bullseye jumped right up into a good canter and Giraffe is pounding along beside us like he knows carrying the mail is the most important job of his life. One mile (good boy Bullseye), two miles (Giraffe you are making us proud), three miles (I forgot how much this makes my knees hurt), come on boys, just a little further. Look, there is the next rider, waiting. Come on Bullseye, come on Giraffe you can do it, I know you can. There is a flurry of activity. The mochilla is exchanged again. The next rider is up and away. We did it.

Our ride lasted all of 22 minutes. Wishing everyone a safe, swift ride. See ya next year.

From: Les Bennington, President, Wyoming Division, NPEA
Received: June 16, 11:36am PDT

Finally got back into cellular service. The Ride is head to Fort Lyman running about a hour ahead of schedule.

From: Carl Shultz, Sweatwater Division, Wyoming Pony Express
Received: June 16, 8:21am PDT

Received the mail at 2:25am MDT at Atlantic City; arrived in Farson at 7:25am MDT. We are now at the Green River Bridge. Everything is going well, no mishaps, just a beautiful day for a ride.

From: Les Bennington, President Wyoming Division, NPEA
Received: June 15, 9:30am PDT

At 1:30 last night we were about an hour and a half behind schedule. Ride left Trail Center at 10 o'clock, back on schedule.

From: Larry Carpenter, National Corresponding Secretary
Received: June 15, 7:28am PDT

Yesterday I made a Pre-Ride Visit to Old Sacramento, and made contacts with the Sacramento Visitor Center, and the Wells Fargo Visitor Center in the BF Hastings Bldg. All are excited about the Pony Express coming to town next week. On 2nd Street between J and K St, a banner stretches about the roadway "Old Sacramento Salutes the Pony Express. Welcome Home!" it proclaims. I walked the boardwalks of Old Town and in my minds eye I could see the Pony 7 days away galloping toward Sacramento, and the Welcome it will receive here. In Nebraska, it was wet and muddy, the rider in slicker, in Sacramento,it was 102 degrees, and sunny.

From: Matt (?)
Received: June 14, 2:57pm PDT

We picked up the Mail at Bridgeport at 10 o'clock this morning and traveled to Henry at the Nebraska/Wyoming State Line, getting there about 3:45. We had good weather all the way. Had a real nice ride.

From: Joan Branscomb, Southest Wyoming
Received: June 14, 2:54pm PDT

We just picked up the Mail from Nebraska at about 3:45, and Angie Montgomery is headed toward Torrington from Henry.

From: Doug Cape, Chappell to Bridgeport Division
Received: June 14, 9:02am PDT

Mail arrived about an hour late. Had a real good night. Everything was cool riding. No problems. We gained almost an hour to get here to Bridgeport. We did pretty good I think. We only had nine riders for 76 miles. So I think we did a pretty good job.

From: Mary Cone, Director Paxton-to-Big Springs, Nebraska
Received: June 14, 8:21am PDT

The Mochilla arrived at Paxton about 8:00pm MDT Wednesday, June 13. Our group received it from the North Platte crew in the rain. And we rode in the rain, hard rain at first, then drizzle to light rain the rest of the time. It had already rained about 4-5 inches over the area in the past 36 hours. Wet, wet, wet, wet, wet!!!!!!!

We had to adjust our route a bit to accommodate washed out roads and roads under knee-deep water and just plain bad roads. The horses and riders were real troopers. A couple stumbles along the trail, but no injuries, bumps or bruises. Thank you Lord. Riding in the dark along the tough trail, the whole batch of horses and riders get my huge round of thanks and congrats!!!! The night was quite dramatic, the rain, the horses breath in the mist, the steam rising off their bodies and glowing eerily in the headlights of the vehicles. The riders in slickers, rain dripping off hat brims, feet stomping in puddles and slosh.

We stayed on time pretty well, passing Roscoe about 9:20pm and Ogallala at about 10:10pm. We passed the Mochilla to the Colorado crew about 1:00am MDT Thursday, June 14. Thanks to the 10 horses and 7 riders that ponied the way across the 43+ miles. What a crew!! Thanks, also to Nebraska President Lyle and National President Dave, the extra support vehicles and personel. The extra help made it a safe ride in very tough conditions. Good luck to all down the trail from here. God Speed!!

From: Gary Lancaster, Colorado Division
Received: June 14, 3:47am PDT

We dropped the Mail at Chappell, Nebraska, at 4:05am MDT.

From: Gary Lancaster, Colorado Division
Received: June 14, 12:10am PDT

We just picked up the Mail from Nebraska. We are headed on west with the Mail.

From: Dave Sanner, President, NPEA
Received: June 13, 7:49pm PDT

Here is a run down from when we hit Nebraska. It has been wet - raining 3-6-7 inches. Can't get through on the Trail. We are on HWY 30 west of Paxton. Drainage ditches are full of water. Still raining. Pickups are getting stuck and we have been pulling them out. Just been a circus out here. But we are still running the Mail headed westbound. Heading up to Big Springs getting ready to handoff to Colorado about midnight or a little after. So we are still going - wet - on the road.

From: Tim Gibbens
Received: June 13, 6:58pm PDT

Well fellow pony express enthusiasts mail is now traveling through central Nebraska. The Cozad group received the mail at 5:00 am in the rain and I can sum up the ride in just a few words, wet, wet, wet. The mochila is 20 pounds heavier thanks to the rain. Everybody had a good ride. We were welcomed in Cozad at 9:15 am central time. The mail left about 9:45 am after a short break.

The pictures are of Nebraska rider Tim Gibbens and his 8 year old daughter Blair. This is Blaire's second year of riding along with her dad, she bounced out of bed at 3:00 am and was in the truck waiting for me. She loves the speed, her 24 year old barrel horse (Browny) can still keep up with the best of them.

Well I hope everyone has a good ride.

Happy wet trails

Tim

From: Dave Sanner, President, NPEA
Received: June 13, 5:46pm PDT

This is Dave Sanner on the Pony Express Trail. We left North Platte about 4:45. Ran into a bunch of mud and got stuck. So we rerouted over to HWY 30 where bridges and everything are washed out. Bad water. 3-6 inches of rain. So we are moving on west.

From: Patsy Lange, Utah Division
Received: June 13, 4:03pm PDT

Just talked to Lyle Gronewold. They have had bunches of rain - we've had buckets of rain. All night had lots of rain. They are on schedule, maybe 10, minutes late, but on schedule. Last night they were drenched. At Hastings they had a downpour. After about 40 miles it let up. Just past Fort Kearney it was raining again really hard with a lot of lightening. It is really rainy and muddy particulary in moving vehicles around. The horses are doing fine. The areas they are in right now had 3-5 inches of rain last night, so it is sort of a sloppy mess out there. There is a 70% chance of rain in the forecast. Some of the young riders just love it! That helps to keep up the morale and the excitement of the whole ride. They do plan on being at the Colorado line at midnight tonight.

From: Terry Graz, Brady Nebraska
Received: June 13, 2:58pm PDT

We had a very smooth ride. We got the Mail a little behind time, but we picked that all up. Got into North Platte on schedule. Had a nice smooth ride with everybody participating. Hope you have a smooth ride out to California.

From: Judy Howard
Recieved: June 13, 1:58pm PDT

Scott Wolfe's Group picked up the mail at Plum Creek and left at 5:10 this morning. They arrived in Cozad about 9:15. The Group left there at 10:00. As of 4:00 this afternoon they should be between Brady and North Platte. Weather has been good. It rained all night. Some time it just rained harder than others.

From: Penelope Kress, Heritage Action Campaign
Received: June 13, 9:45am PDT

This is a great site! Thank you for what you do. I am a member of a Saint Joseph, Missouri, historic preservation organization, Heritage Action, and we post the re-ride info on our site in order to raise awareness and to get people to show up to the leaving/arriving of the riders. This is an amazing feat in modern times and what a national treasure! I only wish more publicity was given to this event, both nationally and locally here in Saint Joseph). I am interested in membership information and how we locally can help promote this annual event to get schoolchildren and others in our community involved. Nationally, everyone should be following the riders - they never stop, so why should we?!?

From: Scott Walton, Nebraska Group
Received: June 13, 7:57am PDT

I picked it up at Overton at 5:10 this morning. We got to Cozad at 9:15. It has been raining the whole way. Everything went good. Just a little slow with muddy roads and slick asphalt. We had breakfast in Cozad and continued west towards Gothenberg about 9:45. Everything is going good.

From: John Greer, Oak, Nebraska
Received: June 12, 7:49pm PDT

We just rode in some dicy weather. We had a small rain storm about two miles out from our drop off point. A couple of riders got kind of wet. But we got it here. Nice evening, kind of overcast. Still some rain with lightening around. Its cool. We have been running pretty well. The next group took it on. We didn't have any accidents, so it was a good night.

From: Lyle Ladner, Kansas Pony Express
Recieved: June 11, 7:13am PDT

The Kansas Division passed off to Nebraska on time. It rained on us going in, and it appeared that it was going to rain on them going out. Our ride was all good, no injuries, everyone had a good time.

From: Lyle Ladner, Kansas Pony Express
Recieved: June 11, 4:28am PDT

We are sitting here at Holenberg Station just a few minutes early. Between Marysville and Hollenberg Station we ran into about 30 minutes of a Kansas thunderstorm - no lighting, but a lot of rain. Hollenberg had some pastries and coffee for us. Marysville also had pastries and coffee when we came through there. We were about 15 minutes early at Marysville. We were on time when we went Guittard Station. They also had a good selection of goodies and pastries. The Station Keeper was there to welcome us.

From: Dave Sanner, President, NPEA
Recieved: June 11, 8:17pm PDT

Reporting on today's events. We left St. Joe at 10 o'clock. It was partly cloudy. Ride went good up to Denton where we hit a little rain shower. Temperature was hot up in the high 80's. Moved over into the Seneca Group. They had a nice evening ride. Had a big get together there in Seneca where they had up 250 people. Sold all out of food and had to make up some more when the riders got there. Left there about 9 o'clock. They handed off to Daryle Boyd's Group. Cool evening. Everything going smooth.

From: Lyle Ladner, Kansas Pony Express
Recieved: June 11, 7:58pm PDT

Just passed through Seneca where we had some barbeque and festivities there this evening. Had a fantastic turnout. Sold over 200 meals, so it was a great deal for them. We are running just about on time.

From: Lyle Ladner, Kansas Pony Express
Recieved: June 11, 4:57pm PDT

We crossed HWY 75 just about on time, about 15 minutes ahead. Starting to cloud up and cool off a little bit. 81 degrees right now. Everything has been a good ride so far.

We are just coming into the Kennecut Station. It has been cloudy and overcast. Moving right along. We are probably 20 to 30 minutes ahead of schedule at this time. Encountered a few sprinkles. Other than that the weather has been good. The traveling has been good. Everything has been great so far.

From: Lyle Ladner, Kansas Pony Express
Recieved: June 11, 9:02m PDT

The Pony is well under way. We left the Patee House right at 10 o'clock. Moved across and left the west side of the Bridge where Kansas picked up the mail at about 10:20. Moving at a steady pace. Cloudy and they are talking about a little rain. Fairly cool, not humid yet.