Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Pony Express

The legendary Pony Express - one of the most exciting, daring and risky ventures in American history - celebrates its 150th anniversary this April.

On 3 April 1860, rider Johnny Fry rode his horse from the Pony Express stables in St Josephs Missouri and headed west.  On 4 April, Billy Hamilton left Sacramento, California and headed east.  The riders started a relay race against time and hostile elements.

Over 183 men answered the above advert and were known to have served as Pony Express riders and each rode 75-100 miles, changing horses every 10 to 15 miles.  The ride continued day and night - all year round - and the most incredible ride by ‘Pony Bob’ covered 380 miles in just 36 hours.

Highlights of the celebrations – which take place in St Josephs between 1 and 3 April – include a re-enactment featuring Pony Express ‘riders’ dashing on horseback from the original stables to the Pony Express Post Office, a street parade featuring wagons, stage coaches and period dressed walking groups, a Buffalo Bill (a former Pony Express rider) look-alike contest, a wealth of historical re-enactments - including a train robbery and a bank holdup – concerts and cook-outs.

For those who fancy joining in the fun, US operator, Bon Voyage, is highlighting seven- night Missouri fly-drive holidays – including a two-night stay in Kansas City (30 miles from St Josephs) over the festival period – from £699 per person.  This twin-share price includes return flights from Heathrow all-inclusive car hire and two nights at the Hyatt Hotel on a room-only basis.

For more information and reservations, visit bon-voyage.co.uk/spotlight.