FROM: Larry Carpenter
PST
The California Division participated in the 8th Annual Clarksville Day, Saturday, May 4, 2019. Eight members served 5 hours at the open air event. They had two tables and several displays set up to tell the Pony Express story. They were among a couple of dozen historical and community groups to participate. 2000 plus people attended the event and many made their way to the California Division tables with questions and comments about the Pony Express. Ride Letter Applications, NPEA brochures, and Pony Express Map and Guides were given out and explained. Two Riders Dave Preszler and Cindy Shields and their horses demonstrated mochila exchanges.
Clarksville was a mining area in western El Dorado County in the Gold Rush of the late 1800,s. By the early 1900’s the mines played out and the town withered away. There were those who stayed and engaged in farming and there are descendants still living in the area. Local historical groups came together a few years ago to hold Clarksville Day to tell the story of that community. Mormon Station a Pony Express Station is located there, and it is also on the Lincoln Highway. So it has been appropriate for the California Division to take part, telling the story of the Pony Express, and promoting the upcoming June Re-ride, and providing an opportunity for people to get Ride Letter Applications. It was a clear sunny day and a great outing for the Californians to talk and Ride!