Although the Pony Express is now famous as part of Wild West history, the service only lasted a short time, 1860–1861, and led its founders to bankruptcy, as it was made obsolete by the telegraph. But, as well as being a romantic interlude, it was extremely significant in pioneering the provision of communication between the eastern and western extremes of the United States.

The legendary Pony Express riders were young, lightweight riders, often teenagers, who carried the mail from St. Joseph to Sacramento, a distance of just under 2,000 miles, which they covered in about ten days. Buffalo Bill, among his many exploits, was one of them.

“The unsung heroes of this adventure were the ponies… brave little horses… only the best horses would do.”

A special saddlebag called a “Mochila” was designed. It had four lockable pockets at the corners and fitted over the saddle, under the rider, and could easily be transferred to the next horse.