New Bronze Statue Celebrates Historic Legacy and Community Spirit
GOTHENBURG, NE— The community of Gothenburg is proud to announce the dedication of a new life-sized bronze sculpture honoring the legendary Pony Express.
The statue, which depicts a rider galloping on horseback, has been installed in the scenic Ehmen Park Arboretum, further highlighting Gothenburg’s importance as a historic landmark along the famed Pony Express mail route.
Renowned Nebraska artist Linda Egle was commissioned to bring this vision to life in 2024. After more than a year and a half of dedicated work, Egle completed the sculpture in the summer of 2025, and it was delivered to its destination awaiting its finishing touches.
The project has been a community effort for more than 20 years in the making, made possible by local fundraising, generous private and corporate donations, and a grant from the Gothenburg Tourism Committee. Located adjacent to the historic Pony Express Station Museum, one of the few original stations remaining, the new sculpture further enriches the town’s cultural and historical significance.
The sculpture joins another bronze already in the park created by Colorado Artist George Walby earlier donated back in 2022. Both pieces pay tribute to the brave young men who risked their lives to deliver mail across the American frontier in the 1860s and will serve as a lasting tribute to their courage and commitment.
“The Pony Express is a vital part of Gothenburg’s identity,” said Matt Weiss, President of the Gothenburg Pony Express Association. “This sculpture not only honors the riders who helped unite the country during a pivotal era but also serves as an educational tool and artistic landmark for our community.”
A dedication ceremony for the Pony Express Rider bronze sculpture will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM CST at 510 15 th Street, Gothenburg, Nebraska.
The event is expected to draw visitors from across the country and will feature special guest dignitaries from across the state of Nebraska and nation.
The new sculpture is a meaningful and striking addition to Gothenburg’s rich historical landscape, offering residents and history enthusiasts alike a unique opportunity to connect with the past and celebrate the spirit of the American frontier.
For more information, please contact the Gothenburg Pony Express Association (matt@ponyexpressstation.org), the Gothenburg Chamber of Commerce (deb@gothenburgdelivers.com) or the City of Gothenburg (ggreer@cityofgothenburg.org).