June 01, 2004
“Young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred. Wages $25 a week. Apply Central Overland Express.”
WHAT: The (some say phony) ad for Pony Express riders. Now how do you feel about your job?
WHAT ELSE: This was one version of the oath they had to swear:
"While I am the employ of A. Majors, I agree not use profane language, not to get drunk, not to gamble, not to treat animals cruelly and not to do anything else that is incompatible with the conduct of a gentleman. And I agree, if I violate any of the above conditions, to accept my discharge without any pay for my services." On the plus side, they were a part of history.
WHAT ELSE: "The ten-day delivery time of the Pony Express was a revolution in its day bringing political and social news to a hungry readership." (Pony Express Facts)