Jeremy Jay Gallop (2009)
Transmitting a letter from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, in only ten days was considered a sensation back in 1860. It was made possible by the iconic Pony Express.
The operation was perilous, as riders faced various hazards along the 1,900-mile-long (3,100 km) route, including harsh weather conditions, wild terrain as well as attacks from Native Americans and bandits. After one year in operation, the American Civil War started, which presented further challenges.
It wasn’t these rough circumstances, though, that led to the end of the Pony Express, but the installation of the first transcontinental telegraph in October 1861, which was an even faster (and more reliable) means of transmitting messages than mail carried by daring men on horseback.
Although it was a short-lived endeavor, the Pony Express’ legacy can’t be overestimated. The operation became a symbol of the spirit of adventure and innovation of the American West, and over the years, many legends have blossomed around the service. Most of them focus on its riders, but the horses deserve some kudos too!
Most of them were not actual ponies, but mustangs or broncos—small, sturdy breeds known for their toughness, agility and endurance. A big part of the Pony Express route was done in gallop, one of the fastest horse gaits, with speeds up to 25 mph (40 km/h). The gallop is natural to horses. Foals, for example, start galloping within hours after birth. And wild horses often gallop to strengthen social bonds and establish hierarchy within the herd.
Inspired by this gait, American musician Jeremy Jay wrote an ingenuous indie rock song of the same name. It probably is meant as a metaphor for embracing the adventures life sometimes offers up and as an invitation to enjoying the ride. In this sense: “Giddy-Up, Horsey, Giddy-Up.”
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