Photo Credit: Seneca Area Chamber/SDI 

 

(KMZA)--A local byway with deep historical significance has officially been designated as the state’s 13th scenic byway. 

Kansas Tourism offcials announced Wednesday that the Pony Express Historic Byway has been added as the 13th byway to the Kansas Byways Program. 

The route begins along U.S. Highway 36 east of Troy and winds through Doniphan, Brown, Nemaha, Marshall, and Washington counties, ending at the Hollenberg Pony Express Station. 

State and local leaders marked the designation with a public unveiling ceremony Tuesday at the historic station in Hanover. 

Officials say the byway closely follows the original Pony Express trail, highlighting the corridor’s historic, scenic, cultural, recreational, archaeological and natural assets. 

The Pony Express played a critical role in delivering mail across the American frontier in the mid-1800s, helping connect a rapidly expanding nation. Lieutenant Governor David Toland says the designation not only preserves that history but also brings economic benefits to local communities.