Meaning: The quote is attributed to Calamity Jane, a legendary figure of the American Old West known for her adventurous and unconventional lifestyle. The statement reflects the dangerous and lawless conditions that characterized the transportation of mail and money during the late 19th century in the American frontier. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it's important to delve into the historical context of the time period and the challenges faced by those involved in the transportation of mail and money.

During the late 1800s, the American West was a vast and rugged expanse, characterized by sparse settlements, rough terrain, and a lack of established law enforcement. As a result, the transportation of mail and money between these remote points was a perilous endeavor. The quote alludes to the frequent incidents of robbery and theft that plagued the stagecoach routes and mail delivery services of the time.

Stagecoaches were the primary mode of transportation for both passengers and cargo in the American West. They were vulnerable targets for bandits and outlaws, who saw an opportunity to seize valuable parcels, including money, important documents, and other valuable items. The quote suggests that Calamity Jane herself may have witnessed or experienced such incidents during her travels, highlighting the pervasive nature of the problem.

The mention of "riders" being held up and robbed indicates that even individual messengers and couriers were not immune to the dangers of transporting mail and money in the Old West. These individuals, often traveling alone across long distances, were easy targets for bandits looking to enrich themselves at the expense of others. The quote serves as a reminder of the personal risks and hardships faced by those entrusted with delivering vital goods and information in an environment fraught with lawlessness.

The reference to "the only means of getting mail and money between these points" underscores the crucial role played by these transportation routes in facilitating communication and commerce in the region. Before the advent of telegraph and reliable banking systems, the physical transportation of mail and money was the lifeline that connected isolated communities with the rest of the country. Despite the inherent dangers, the need for these services was paramount, driving individuals like Calamity Jane and others to brave the risks associated with transporting valuable cargo.

Calamity Jane herself was a notable historical figure who defied traditional gender roles and actively participated in the rugged and often perilous lifestyle of the frontier. Her firsthand experiences and observations of the challenges involved in transporting mail and money likely informed her perspective on the matter. As a woman who lived a life outside the boundaries of conventional societal expectations, her insights into the dangers and hardships of frontier transportation carry a unique and valuable perspective.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to Calamity Jane sheds light on the perilous nature of transporting mail and money in the American West during the late 19th century. It serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those involved in the vital task of connecting remote settlements through the transportation of goods and information. The quote encapsulates the lawless and dangerous conditions that characterized the era, offering a glimpse into the challenges and hardships endured by individuals who played a crucial role in sustaining communication and commerce in the untamed frontier.