Museum, Training Center, Events & Meeting Space
A grant from the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), City of Hartford, Manafort Brothers Inc., and Tilcon Connecticut made the vision of the Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum a reality. Our beautiful new building is up, and we curated a space to house The Mary Fields Horse & Heritage 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 Horse & Heritage Museum exhibits tell the story of the African American experience, history, and impact during pioneer times. The displays highlight African American influence and contributions in history, economy, and society which shaped the United States after the Civil War.
Please join us in the growth of this new space and Donate Now!
Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum
Celebrating Black Cowboy History and Honoring Unsung Heroes
The Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum is a one-of-a-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 preserves and shares the often-overlooked history of Black Cowboys and their role in shaping America.
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 shines a light on stories of resilience, courage, and contribution.
A Cultural Landmark for Hartford and Beyond
Our 1,400 sq. ft. gallery space hosts year-round exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events designed to engage visitors of all ages. Through curated displays, community programming, and cultural partnerships, the museum serves as both a place of learning and a celebration of heritage.
“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.”
The Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum Hours of Operation: The museum is open to the public Thursday - Sunday, from October 30 to November 20, 12 PM to 3:30 PM. Following a winter break, it will reopen on April 2, 2026, maintaining the same hours.
** School groups are encouraged to contact our office directly to arrange special visiting times.**
Mary Fields Horse & Heritage Museum, opening day.
Mary “Stagecoach Mary” Fields
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.
