STAGECOACH MARY

        Stagecoach Mary, also known as Mary Fields, was an African American woman who made a significant impact on American history and African American culture. She was born into slavery in Hickman County, Tennessee, in 1832, and lived a life of incredible resilience and determination.

After the Civil War, Mary left Tennessee and made her way to Ohio, where she worked in a convent. She later moved to Montana, where she became a pioneer, mail carrier, and a prominent member of the community. She was known for her fierce independence, quick wit, and remarkable strength.

In Montana, Mary worked as a stagecoach driver for the United States Postal Service, making her the first African American woman to hold this position. She was also one of the few women in the profession at the time. Mary was known for her skill in handling horses and her ability to deliver the mail on time, even in difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions.

Mary's reputation as a formidable and fearless figure grew in the small town of Cascade, Montana. She was known for carrying a gun and never backing down from a fight. She was also known for her kindness, often using her own money to help the poor and needy in the community.

Mary's legacy extends beyond her work as a stagecoach driver. She was an advocate for education and founded a school for African American children in Cascade. She was also a devout Catholic and worked as a janitor in the local convent, where she formed strong bonds with the nuns and the children she served.

Mary died in 1914 at the age of 82. Her legacy continues to inspire and captivate people today. She was a trailblazer for women and African Americans, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. Her courage, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to all who know her story.

Mary's importance to American history and African American culture cannot be overstated. She was a symbol of perseverance and determination, embodying the spirit of the American frontier. She challenged gender and racial stereotypes, proving that women and African Americans were just as capable as anyone else.

Mary's story is a reminder that history is not always told from the perspective of the powerful or famous. It is the stories of ordinary people, like Mary, that reveal the true character of a nation. Mary's legacy serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can rise above our circumstances and achieve greatness.

In 2019, Mary was inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, Texas, a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to American history and culture. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations, as we strive to break down barriers and create a more just and equitable society for all.