Pony Express Barn & Museum

Pony Express Barn & Museum

106 S 8th St
Marysville, KS 66508
+1785-562-3825
ponyexpress.museum

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat10:00am- 4:00pm
Sun12:00pm- 3:00pm

Visitors can explore this incredible piece of history and experience a unique connection to the legacy of the Pony Express and the vital role Marysville played as a crossroads of Westward Expansion.


Over the years, the barn has served multiple purposes, including as an automotive shop and a meat market, before being preserved as a museum. Today, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the pioneers, offering an authentic look at life during the height of Westward Expansion.


Originally constructed by Joseph Cottrell and Hank Williams, the barn was built to house Cottrell’s blacksmith shop, utilizing native limestone for its durability and practicality. The barn retains its original blacksmith hearth, wagon entrances, and ventilation holes, providing visitors with a glimpse into the functional design of the era.


Marysville is proud to be home to the only original Pony Express barn still standing on its original site, built between 1859-1860. This historic structure is not only the oldest building in Marshall County but also a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the story of the county’s rich history.


View AllUpcoming Events


Museum Day
10:00 AM CDT, Apr 05, 2025
Marysville, KS
Discover the rich history of Marysville, KS, with Museum Day! On this special day, all four of Marysville’s museums open their doors for...
Read More
2025 Pony Express Re-Ride
11:00 PM CDT, Jun 20, 2025
Marysville, KS
The Pony Rides Again A lone rider gallops across a landscape of prairie grass and sagebrush and mountain terrain. The sound of approachi...
Read More

View AllRecent Posts


Museum Day – Explore Marysville’s History for Free!Have you ever wondered what it was like to send mail by horseback, live in a grand Victorian home, or witness the golden age of railroad...