Mary Fields's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Mary Fields, also known as Stagecoach Mary, was an extraordinary woman who defied the limitations placed upon her by society and race to become the first African American female mail carrier in the United States. Born into slavery in Hickman County, Tennessee in 1832, Fields' early life was marked by hardship and adversity. However, she eventually found her way to Cascade, Montana, where she would make history as a pioneering mail carrier.

Fields was a force to be reckoned with, standing at 6 feet tall and possessing a fearless demeanor that earned her a reputation as someone not to be trifled with. Her remarkable life began to take shape when she was freed from slavery after the Civil War and moved to Ohio to work as a servant for the Ursuline nuns. It was during this time that she honed her skills in cooking, laundry, and gardening, becoming known for her remarkable work ethic and indomitable spirit.

When the nuns moved to Montana, Fields went with them and quickly became a beloved member of the community. She was known for her generosity, often providing food and assistance to those in need. Fields' reputation for fierce independence and her ability to handle herself in any situation made her a popular figure in the town, and when the opportunity arose to become the mail carrier for Cascade, she jumped at the chance.

In 1895, at the age of 63, Fields became the first African American woman and the second woman in the United States to work for the United States Postal Service. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice, she performed her duties with unwavering determination and skill. As the town's only mail carrier, she braved harsh weather conditions and rough terrain to deliver mail to its residents, earning a reputation for her dependability and resilience.

Fields' story became the stuff of legend, and she was often seen smoking cigars, carrying a rifle, and wearing a men's suit, further cementing her status as an iconoclast. She was known for her colorful language and willingness to stand up for herself and others, once reportedly beating a would-be thief senseless and later gaining his respect. Her larger-than-life persona made her a beloved figure in the community, and she became a symbol of strength and independence for many.

After working as a mail carrier for eight years, Fields retired and opened a restaurant in Cascade, where she continued to be an important figure in the community. She passed away in 1914 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination that continues to inspire people to this day. In 1952, Fields was inducted into the Montana Historical Society's Hall of Fame, and in 2006, a bronze statue was erected in her honor at the Cascade post office.

Mary Fields' remarkable life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Her pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to her work have cemented her legacy as one of the most remarkable figures in American history. She has left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring countless individuals to follow in her footsteps and never give up on their dreams. Mary Fields will forever be remembered as a true trailblazer and a symbol of strength and resilience.