Towns along trail plan events

Sidney — June 18, 6 p.m.

Dedication of the Pony Express National Monument outside Cabela's. Monument features eight granite markers representing the states on the trail. Markers laid out in the shape of a horseshoe include information about a Pony Express post. A larger-than-life-size bronze sculpture of a rider aboard a galloping horse planned next year. Free barbecue, street dance and fireworks follow dedication.

Ogallala — June 19, noon

Riders gather at Tri-Trails Park south of Ogallala for a mayoral proclamation, recitation of the oath taken by Pony Express riders and a brief history of the park where the Texas/Chisholm, Oregon and Pony Express trails converged. Lunch by Ogallala Cream Can Supper Co. Lunch tickets on sale for $4 each until 4 p.m. Friday at Ogallala banks.

Gothenburg June 20, 8 a.m.

Pancake breakfast and worship service (at 8:30 a.m.) featuring a horseback preacher at Sam Macchette Station in Ehmen Park. Muzzleloaders display pelts, beads and trade goods.

Fort Kearny State Historical Park — Kearney June 20, 5 p.m.

About two dozen local riders expected to accompany the arrival of Pony Express relay riders carrying leather mail satchel. Activities, however, begin at 1 p.m., with actors portraying President Abraham Lincoln, Buffalo Bill and others. Fort re-enactors ride horses and fire a cannon. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic lunches, lawn chairs and blankets. On-site Pony Express re-enactors to pick up, carry and deliver letters. Organizers will stamp letters with a 150th anniversary logo and an 1860 cancellation stamp. Special postcards available.

Rock Creek Station State Historical Park Near Fairbury — June 21, 3:45 p.m.

Interpreters will explain the history of the Pony Express and demonstrate how the mochila was exchanged between relay riders in a scene described by Mark Twain in “Roughing It.” At 6 p.m., Dutch oven stew, biscuits, cobbler served.

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