Hank Monk

Hank Monk (1826-1883) was a stagecoach driver in the American West, renowned for his skill and colorful personality. He is best known for his legendary ride with Horace Greeley, the editor of the New York Tribune, in 1859. According to the widely circulated anecdote, Greeley, who was running late for a speaking engagement, repeatedly urged Monk to drive faster. Monk famously replied, "Keep your seat, Horace, and I'll get you there on time," and then proceeded to drive the stagecoach at breakneck speed, reportedly through dangerous terrain.

This incident, whether entirely factual or embellished, cemented Monk's reputation as a daring and reliable driver. He became a symbol of the rugged individualism and frontier spirit of the Old West. While the specifics of the Greeley story may be debated, Monk undeniably drove stagecoaches on challenging routes in California and Nevada, connecting remote settlements and transporting passengers and goods. He worked for various stagecoach lines, including the Pioneer Stage Company and Wells Fargo.

Monk's name became synonymous with speed and determination. He was often mentioned in newspapers and magazines, further contributing to his legendary status. After his career as a stagecoach driver, he worked as a bartender in Carson City, Nevada. He died in 1883 and is buried there. While his life may be partly mythologized, Hank Monk remains a prominent figure in the folklore of the American West, embodying the courage and skill of the stagecoach drivers who played a vital role in the region's development.