Attraction
Hollenberg Pony Express Station – Hanover
The Hollenberg Pony Express Station, located near Hanover, Kansas, is a premier historic destination for those exploring the Oregon, California, and Pony Express National Historic Trails. It is nationally significant as the only unaltered Pony Express station still standing in its original location.
Historical Significance
Established in 1857 or 1858 by Gerat and Sophia Hollenberg, the site originally served as a “road ranch” for emigrants traveling westward.
- Pony Express “Home Station”: From 1860 to 1861, it functioned as a vital relay point where riders changed mounts and often found meals and lodging.
- A Frontier Hub: The building was multi-functional, housing a general store, tavern, and unofficial post office to serve pioneers and local settlers.
- Unrivaled Authenticity: Unlike many other reconstructed sites, the Hollenberg Station is a rare, intact cottonwood frame building that has never been moved.
What to See and Do
- The Original Station House: Visitors can tour the six-room building, which includes the family’s living quarters, the store, and the tavern area. The loft upstairs served as a common sleeping room for riders and stagecoach employees.
- Interpretive Visitor Center: Adjacent to the historic station, a modern visitor center features interpretive exhibits on the history of westward expansion, the Pony Express, and pioneer life.
- Pioneer Landscape: The site offers walking trails where you can sometimes spot original trail ruts left by wagons on the Oregon-California Trail.
- Special Events: The station hosts the annual Pony Express Festival and is a stop for the annual Pony Express Re-ride, featuring historical re-enactors and demonstrations.
Location Address:
2889 23rd Rd, Hanover, KS 66945
Attraction City:
Visitor Information
- Location: 2889 23rd Rd, Hanover, KS 66945.
- Hours (Seasonal): Typically open from March through October. Regular hours are Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m..
- Admission: Admission is currently free for all visitors.
- Nearby Feature: Don’t miss the 10-foot-tall Pony Express brick relief sculpture located at the intersection of US-36 and KS-148.
https://nationalponyexpress.org/historic-pony-express-trail/stations/
https://www.nps.gov/poex/planyourvisit/hollenberg-station.htm
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