Mary Fields Museum and Conference Center - Opening Summer of 2024

Museum, Training Center, Corporate Events & Meeting Space

A grant from the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is making the vision of the Mary Fields Museum and Training Space a reality. Our beautiful new building is up and now we are working on building out the interior space to house The Mary Fields Museum as well as a space for gathering, education and entertainment.

Who was Mary Fields?

Born a slave, Mary Fields, (1832–1914) lived in Montana with the Ursuline Sisters who established an Indian boarding school and mission. Also known as "Stagecoach Mary" and Black Mary, she was the first African-American female Star Route U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in the United States.

Mary Fields was one of the toughest pioneer women to ever earn the respect and devotion of the settlers and Native Americans of the pioneer community of Cascade, Montana. She was widely beloved, admired, and respected throughout the region for holding her own and living her way in a world where the odds were against her.

In a time when African Americans and women of any race enjoyed little freedom anywhere in the world, Mary Fields enjoyed more respect and freedom than most white men because of her toughness and her constant contributions to her community.

The Mary Fields Museum exhibits will tell the story of African American experience, history, and impact during pioneer times. The displays will highlight African American influence and contributions in history, economy, and society which shaped the United States after the Civil War.

Please join us in realizing our dream and Donate Now!