Israel Landis (October 17,1808 – April 12,1893) was the designer of the Pony Express saddle and Mochila. The Mochila as a kind of knapsack used by the  Pony Express riders to carry letters and telegrams. He first opened a small saddle and harness shop in St. Joseph in 1844. His business grew rapidly from the many travelers going West and to California seeking gold. By 1849 this had brought him much prosperity and he became active in real estate. In 1857 he built a large brick store on the corner of Forth and Felix, which was occupied by R. L. Mc Donald and Company. Also, in partnership with Simeon Kemper and Reuben Middleton he laid out 20 acres for the use of Mt. Mora Cemetery. He later bought out his partners and in 1881 sold the property to Mt. Mora Cemetery Association.

Landis is buried at Mt. Mora Cemetery.