Last updated: January 15, 2023
Place
Hollenberg Pony Express Station
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
Hanover, Kansas
Significance:
Pony Express home station and later a stage station; served as a neighborhood grocery store, a tavern, and an unofficial post-office for the emigrants on the Oregon-California Trails.
Designation:
Kansas State Historic Site; Historic Landmark
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
1 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
The Hollenberg ranch house was built on Cottonwood Creek about 1857 by Gerat H. Hollenberg to capitalize on the Oregon-California emigrant trade that passed his door. In addition to living quarters for the Hollenberg family, the building served as a neighborhood grocery store, a tavern, and an unofficial post-office. Emigrants were able to obtain provisions at the ranch. Three years later, it became a Pony Express home station and later a stage station.
Dr. C.M. Clark reached Cottonwood Creek in 1860 and found "a small stream which is dry during the summer months. The approach to it is winding and steep, and as the bed of the stream contains several large stones at the ford, some care is necessary in driving. There are two good springs here, but no wood. The Stage Company have a station here, and there is also one or two other buildings."
Site Information
Location (2889 23rd Rd, Hanover, KS 66945)
The original building still stands. It is a rare example of a Pony Express station that still stands unaltered in its original location. A new visitor center with interpretive exhibits has been erected near the historic building.
More Site Information
Pony Express National Historic Trail
Oregon National Historic Trail
California National Historic Trail
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Situated at the Kansas-Nebraska border is the Hollenberg Pony Express Station. It is a rare example of a Pony Express station that still stands unaltered in its original location. A new visitor center with interpretive exhibits has been erected near the historic building. A trip here provides the chance to step back in time by visiting the original station house where Pony Express riders and thousands of emigrants stopped to rest, eat, and purchase supplies along their journey.