Before the Pony Express mail traveled by ship from New York to Panama. Then over land to the other shore of Panama. Then by ship again north to San Francisco, California. It took three or four weeks.

Mail could also go west by stagecoach. That took about twenty one days to go from New York to San Francisco.

The Pony Express trip in ten days in the summer, but a few more days in the winter.

Riders had to weigh less than 125 pounds but most riders weighed about 120 pounds.

Riders had to be tough, loyal, honest, and brave.

Riders were supposed to be at least 16 years old but some riders lied.

The Pony Express preferred orphans because their parents would not worry about them.

Bronco Charlie is said to have been 11 years old when he rode for the Pony Express.

Buffalo Bill Cody was only 15 when he started riding for the Pony Express.

Riders were paid $25.00 a week.

Riders had to promise not to fight, curse or drink.

Each rider rode about 75 miles per day.

Riders changed horses at a relay station every 10 to 15 miles.

There were about 153 relay stations.

Horses usually traveled about 10 miles an hour.

Sometimes riders had to ride through the day into the night.

The weather did not stop the riders.