Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. Announces Grand Opening of the Mary Fields Horse and Heritage Museum in Hartford, CT
Celebrating Black Cowboy History and Honoring Unsung Heroes Through Education and Community Engagement
Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. proudly announces the grand opening of the Mary Fields Horse and Heritage Museum, a first-of-its-kind cultural and historical destination dedicated to the legacy of Black and Indigenous horsemen and women. Located at the Ebony Horsewomen Equestrian and Therapeutic Center in Hartford’s historic Keney Park, the museum will open to the public on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Named in honor of Mary “Stagecoach Mary” Fields—the first African American woman to work for the U.S. Postal Service and a fearless legend of the American West—the museum reclaims the often-overlooked history of Black Cowboys and their role in shaping America.
A Cultural Landmark for Hartford and Beyond
The 1,400 sq. ft. renovated gallery will feature year-round exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events that highlight the contributions of Black and Indigenous equestrians.
“This museum is more than a tribute—it’s a reclamation of truth,” says Patricia E. Kelly, founder and CEO of Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. “We want young people, families, and visitors from all walks of life to see themselves in this legacy of resilience, courage, and contribution.”
Opening Day Celebration
The grand opening will begin with a processional and libation ceremony led by the Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium, followed by a ribbon-cutting. The program will be hosted by Reggie Hales, publisher of Inquiring News, and Jendayi Scott-Miller, Angel of Edgewood.
Speakers include Patricia E. Kelly, President and CEO of Ebony Horsewomen, Inc.; Dr. Heather R. Lawson, Chairwoman of the Board; city officials; and artist-curator Levi Robinson. A U.S. Senator has been invited.
A dramatic monologue, Mary Speaks, will be performed by an actress portraying Mary Fields, offering a powerful glimpse into her voice and legacy. Guests will also enjoy guided museum tours, a community reception, and opportunities to engage with historians, artists, and cultural leaders.
Event Details
• What: Grand Opening of the Mary Fields Horse and Heritage Museum
• When: Friday, October 3, 2025, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Where: Ebony Horsewomen Equestrian & Therapeutic Center, 337 Vine Street (Keney Park) Hartford, CT
• Admission: Free and open to the public (donations welcome)
More information: info@ebonyhorsewomen.us | (860) 293-2914
Mary “Stagecoach Mary” Fields
Known as the first African American woman employed by the U.S. Postal Service, Mary “Stagecoach Mary” Fields was a fearless trailblazer of the American West. Standing over six feet tall and often seen with a cigar in hand, she defied stereotypes and danger alike—delivering mail, protecting her route, and living life on her own terms. Her legacy of strength and resilience continues to inspire generations.
Curating history.
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Dream it.
It all began with an idea.
What started as a vision to honor untold stories is now becoming reality. The Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum is more than a building, it’s a space we’ve curated with care, history, and heart.
From the paint on the walls to the exhibits being assembled, every detail is part of bringing to life the legacy of Black Cowboys and Indigenous horsemen and women and celebrating the fearless story of Mary “Stagecoach Mary” Fields.
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Build it.
What starts as sketches, research, and pieces of history gradually comes together to tell a much bigger story. Every exhibit we’re preparing for the Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum is part of reclaiming a legacy.
