Kids learn pioneering skills at Pony Express Day Camp

By Jazmine Knight

Local kids are getting the chance to learn all about pioneer life this week at Pony Express Day Camp.

“We started doing it because we wanted to do an outreach,” said Cindy Daffron, executive director of the Pony Express Museum. “Our mission is to educate future generations.”

The day camp, which runs July 8-10, features many different activities including crafts, museum tours and archery lessons. The museum also incorporates pony school and life skills into the curriculum.

“They’re pioneer boys and girls. So they’re going to find out what that time period really talks about,” Daffron said.

The kids are learning concepts such as pioneer gender roles. For example, girls were responsible for cooking and getting cow patties for fire, while the boys looked after oxen and horses.

Attendees Kaysen and Paisley said they love the wide array of activities the camp has to offer.

“I like doing the archery and getting into the museum and doing the songs,” Kaysen said.

Paisley enjoyed learning about the first rider of the Pony Express and the struggles he faced when traveling. For Kaysen, he enjoyed learning about the Native Americans and how they shot animals such as elks and eagles.

Both said one of the most memorable parts of camp is making crafts.

“So yesterday we made, you know, we made a wagon, and I don’t know if we’re going to be making today, but hopefully it is something fun,” Paisley said.

Thomas Preacher with the Missouri Department of Conservation describes the partnership with the museum for archery.

“(Archery) is a very common technology,” he said. “It helps the students understand that this is something that they can do at school.”

His favorite part is introducing the kids to something new.

“Through this program, they get a new experience. They really enjoy shooting.” he said.

When the attendees would be interested in going back in time and living during the pioneer days, their answers vary.

“Yes, of course,” Paisley said.

“No, I think it’s too tough,” Kaysen said.

Even though history books may touch on the pioneer days, Daffron said the kids are still curious.

“These kids are saying, ‘Well, I talked to my grandmother. I’m going to talk to my mom, too. When’s grandma coming?’ Because they want to ask those questions,” she said.

Daffron said her favorite part is seeing the kids utilize the important life skills they learn at camp.

Though spots are filled for next week’s Day Camp, those interested in the Pony Express can alway register for other events such as Family Day.