Take a trip back through
history when you visit the Pony Express Region. Here you'll discover
why Missouri played such a vital role in the setting of the West.
Explorers, cowboys, outlaws, Indians, even gamblers and prospectors
left their mark on this region. Providing a flavor of the Old West,
you'll find towns so rich in history you can practically feel the
"fever" a quarter million immigrants, gold seeks,
missionaries and fur traders felt as they set out in the "land
of milk and honey." 
The
turbulent, glory-filled era of the century past is still alive in
St. Joseph, where the Pony Express began its brief, but legendary,
run. Relive that first ride at the red-brick Pike's Peak Stables,
now full restored as a
museum. The Patee House, the first
headquarters of the Express, originally a four-story luxury hotel,
now showcases 1800s American lifestyle. Next door sits the house
where outlaw Jesse James spent his last year before being gunned
down by Bob Ford in 1882. (Please click on the member CVB's name on the map or in this description for more detailed information.)
St. Jo is
a city rich with not only a proud past, but also plenty of culture.
There are numerous museums, galleries and historical sites, the
National Military Heritage Museum. Knew-Von Black Archives and the
St. Joseph Fire Museum to name a few. Shopping at the Stetson Hat
Factory Outlet, games aboard the St. Jo Frontier Casino and a walk
along the historic parkway are musts.
Farther
north you'll find Maryville, home to Northwest Missouri State
University and dozens of cultural events. History and genealogy
buffs will want to make sure they visit the Nodaway County
Historical Society Museum. Located next door are the more than
150-year-old Caleb Burns Working Man's House and the 1883 Hickory
Grove Schoolhouse.
Just east
in Conception, home to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
Located to the northeast, in the tiny town of Clyde, is the Chapel
of the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, known for its
superb acoustical qualities.
Jamesport
is the state's largest Amish settlement. Here visitors will find
treasures such as handmade Amish quilts, furniture, foods and
antiques. Tours provide glimpses of the Amish way of life. At
Gallatin, you'll find more reminders of the infamous James Gang, and
the unique 1889 Daviess County Squirrel Cage Jail, one of only three
rotary jails in the U.S.
Throughout
the region are ample opportunities to meet nature at its best with
fishing, hiking and other outdoor fun. Squaw Creek National Wildlife
Refuge and Big Lake Sate Park, both near Mound City, are home to an
abundance of wildlife, including migrating snow geese and bald
eagles.
From the
frontier heritage of St. Jo to the Amish of today, the Pony Express
Region is a land steeped in history and full of surprises. Join us
on a journey through time, where you'll discover history isn't just
interesting ... it's downright fun!
Pony Express Region Links:
St.
Joseph
