Butterfield Overland Despatch Stage Stations – Legends of America

The Butterfield Overland Despatch (BOD), a crucial artery of westward expansion, played a pivotal role in connecting the eastern United States with the burgeoning territories of the West. Established in 1859, the BOD carved a path across the vast expanse of the Great Plains, facilitating the transportation of passengers, mail, and vital supplies to the Colorado Territory during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush.

The Smoky Hill Trail: A Lifeline to the West

The BOD’s route, largely following the Smoky Hill Trail, stretched approximately 592 miles from Atchison, Kansas, on the banks of the Missouri River, to the bustling city of Denver, Colorado. This trail, named after the Smoky Hill River, served as a vital conduit for prospectors, settlers, and entrepreneurs seeking their fortunes in the West.

The Journey Begins: Atchison to Denver

On September 11, 1865, the first Butterfield Overland Despatch stagecoach embarked on its inaugural journey from Atchison, Kansas. After twelve arduous days, the stagecoach triumphantly arrived in Denver on September 23, 1865, marking the beginning of a regular transportation service that would forever alter the landscape of the American West.

Stage Stations: Oases of Civilization

To ensure the smooth operation of the Butterfield Overland Despatch, a network of stage stations was strategically established along the route, typically spaced about every 12 miles. These stations served as vital oases for both passengers and horses, providing respite, supplies, and a sense of security amidst the vast and often unforgiving landscape.

Swing Stations: Quick Respite

The more numerous "swing" stations, typically managed by a small crew of bachelor stock tenders, were primarily designed for swift horse changes. These stations, often consisting of a modest cabin and a barn or corral, allowed the stagecoach to halt briefly for about ten minutes, providing passengers with a chance to stretch their legs while the horses were replaced with a fresh team.

Home Stations: Havens of Hospitality

In contrast to the swing stations, "home" stations were larger, more elaborate establishments, usually spaced about 50 miles apart. These stations, typically managed by a couple or family, offered passengers meager meals and overnight lodging, providing a much-needed respite from the rigors of the journey. While the accommodations might have been rudimentary, often consisting of nothing more than a dirt floor, they were a welcome sight to weary travelers.

Home stations also served as vital logistical hubs, featuring stables for horse changes, a blacksmith and repair shop, and a telegraph station. Here, stagecoach drivers were often relieved, allowing them to rest and prepare for their next leg of the journey.

A Glimpse into the Past: Notable Stations

The Butterfield Overland Despatch route was dotted with numerous stations, each with its own unique story to tell. Some of the most notable stations include:

• Mount Pleasant, Kansas: Located just eight miles from Atchison, Mount Pleasant served as an initial stop for stagecoaches embarking on their westward journey.

• Fort Leavenworth, Kansas: Established in 1827, Fort Leavenworth played a significant role in the defense of the western frontier and served as a prominent stop along the BOD route.

• Louisville, Kansas: Described as having good water and grass, Louisville provided a welcome respite for passengers and horses alike.

• Juniata Crossing, Kansas: Situated on the east side of the Blue River, Juniata Crossing was an important early settlement and a strategic crossing point along the BOD route.

• Fort Riley, Kansas: Another significant military post, Fort Riley offered security and supplies to travelers along the BOD trail.

• Junction City, Kansas: A designated home station, Junction City provided passengers with more substantial meals and lodging.

• Abilene, Kansas: Another home station, Abilene later became famous as the starting point for cattle drives along the Chisholm Trail.

• Salina, Kansas: Serving as a home station, Salina marked the end of the track in April 1867.

• Fort Ellsworth (later Fort Harker), Kansas: Located on the north bank of the Smoky Hill River, Fort Ellsworth provided military protection and served as a home station.

• Hick’s/Lost Creek Station, Kansas: A home station where passengers could enjoy a meal, this station underwent several name changes before settling on Hick’s Station.

• Fort Fletcher, Kansas: A home station with military protection, Fort Fletcher was later renamed Fort Hays.

• Lookout Station, Kansas: This station was the site of a fierce attack by Sioux and Cheyenne warriors in 1867, resulting in its destruction.

• Downer, Kansas: A home station strategically situated for defense, Downer suffered frequent Indian attacks before being abandoned.

• Monument, Kansas: Also known as Monument Rock and Antelope Station, Monument was a home station featuring a unique stable built into the north bank of the river for protection.

• Eaton, Kansas: A home station named for Colonel Eaton, Eaton was also known as Russell Springs, Wood Bottom, and Death Hollow due to frequent Indian raids.

• Fort Wallace – Pond Creek, Kansas: A home station with underground tunnels and rifle pits for defense, Fort Wallace provided a sense of security for travelers.

• Cheyenne Wells, Colorado: A home station located on the south bank of the Smoky Hill River, Cheyenne Wells provided a much-needed respite for travelers entering Colorado Territory.

• Duboise, Colorado: A home station six miles southeast of Kit Carson. At this point, travelers headed toward Bent’s Fort on the Arkansas River left the Smoky Hill Trail.

• Hedinger’s Lake, Colorado: Also known as Lake Station, it was located at the junction of Lake Creek and Big Sandy Creek. Here, the North and South trails separated in 1866.

• Reed’s Spring, Colorado: This place was a home station with a vast dugout that could hold a stagecoach and team without unhitching it. It was also used as a store.

• Ruthton/Running Creek, Colorado: A home station named Ruthton Station after the station in Kansas was abandoned.

• Cherry Creek, Colorado: Also called Cherry Valley Station, it was located at the junction of Sampson Gulch and Cherry Creek.

• Denver, Colorado: A home station marked the trail’s end at the intersection of Broadway, Colfax, and Fifteenth Streets in Denver, Colorado.

Challenges and Transformations

The Butterfield Overland Despatch faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the constant threat of Indian attacks. The trail and stations were subject to frequent changes, and the exact locations and distances between stations often varied.

Despite these challenges, the BOD played a pivotal role in the development of the American West, facilitating trade, communication, and the movement of people and resources. As the railroad expanded westward, the BOD gradually faded into history, but its legacy as a pioneering transportation system remains an important part of the American story.

Preserving the Legacy

Today, the remnants of the Butterfield Overland Despatch can still be seen in various locations along the original route. Historical markers, museums, and preserved stage stations serve as reminders of this important chapter in American history. The Butterfield Trail Museum in Russell Springs, Kansas, is a particularly notable institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the BOD.

The Enduring Significance

The Butterfield Overland Despatch stands as a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and determination of those who sought to connect the East and West. Its impact on the development of the American West cannot be overstated, and its legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations.