Pony Express Museum hosts annual Family Fest on President’s Day

By Jenna Wilson

The Pony Express Museum hosted its annual family day event Monday, giving families the chance to participate in unique learning activities on President’s Day.

Each family was handed a passport upon entry so they could have hands-on experience exploring the museum while also learning its history.

A few of the activities at family day included the Pioneer Wagon, Relay Stations and Civil War murals.

Cindy Daffron, executive director of the Pony Express Museum, said at this year’s family day, they were hoping to attract visitors from all over the world to experience the culture and history of the museum.

“Just like Buffalo Bill fed 500 people, I want to feed 500 people right inside here today which is why there is a lot of food being served,” Daffron said. “We talked about how international people will sometimes come and visit the museum and I just met people from France here today. It’s exciting for us to meet people from across the way who are interested in our story right here in St. Joseph, Missouri.”

The Pony Express Museum holds much history within its walls. While the original Pony Express only lasted 18 months, the Pony School built in 2011 has played a vital role in educating the youth today.

Daffron said she hopes the museum’s “Family Fest” will continue for years ahead as it has proven to encourage children to enjoy learning about history.

“‘It’s really nice to be able to go out for a half an hour and learn education in a different way than you normally do,” she said. “The kids tell me all the time, ‘if they taught like this every day, I’d learn something at school’ and we just enjoy seeing each of them enjoy learning. It’s all about educating while also making memories with your family. We want people to bring their children and hopefully someday, 20 years from now, they’ll be bringing theirs.”