Pony Express Statue...Public Art...St Joseph MO 64501
The Pony Express monument, is located on the corner of Tenth and Frederick streets in downtown St. Joseph, Missouri.
The bronze horse and rider is a heroic statue created by Hermon A. MacNeil, a famous sculptor, who also carved the murals for many state capitals, and the United States Supreme Court figurine in Washington, DC.
The Pony Express Statue was unveiled in St. Joseph on April 20, 1940 commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Pony Express. The Pony Express was the fastest mail delivery between St. Joseph, MO and Sacramento, CA. The Pony Express continued to run until the telegraph was completed on October 24, 1861. The horse appears to be leaping ahead with the support of the rider, showing how the riders took pride in their journeys.
The statue was $16,000 and weighed two tons. It was a part of the $63,000 Civic Center bond issue that passed on August 5, 1938, with bonds providing 55% of the cost. Postmaster General James Farley was present for the unveiling.
Today the statue remains in good condition. Visitors like to stop and take their picture by the statue for their memory books, proof that they visited St. Joseph, the Home of the Pony Express!
In 2010 the Pony Express will celebrate its 150th Anniversary. The St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau, Pony Express Museum and Patee House Museum have many events planned to celebrate the anniversary, for more information on the sesquicentennial please visit stjomo.com.
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