News From: NPEA California Division
For 18 months, between April 1860 through October 1861, the Pony Express delivered mail and newspapers between St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento. What many are not aware of is the occasional Lamorinda leg of the journey.
At the time of its inception the Pony Express, originally called Leavenworth and Pike’s Peak Express Company, covered more than 1,800 miles in 10 days and was considered the fastest form of mail delivery in its day. Initial rates were $5 per half ounce, then $2.50 and by July 1861 it was as low as $1.