Today is the 155th anniversary of the Pony Express, a venture that ultimately left the owners in bankruptcy, but is also a cherished part of American history. Here are some interesting facts courtesy of Kate Kelly’s America Comes Alive site:

• The Pony Express began in 1860 and only existed for eleven month.
• The official name of the Pony Express was The Central Overland, California and Pikes Peak Express Company.
• Young boys were generally hired because of the company rule that no rider should weigh more than 125 pounds.
• “Bronco Charlie” Miller was said to be the youngest rider; he was 11 years old when he rode for the Pony Express.
• The owner of the company was very religious so he gave each rider a small Bible to carry with him at all times.  Each rider also had to take an oath not to quarrel, drink, or swear.