Award-Winning Author Leslie Budewitz to Present Stagecoach Mary Program at Depot Theater

DILLON — The public is invited to learn about one of Montana's most remarkable historical figures when Agatha Award-winning author Leslie Budewitz presents a program on Mary Fields, better known as "Stagecoach Mary," on Tuesday, June 9, at the Depot Theater.

Fields, born into slavery in Tennessee in 1832, lived an extraordinary life that took her from the Mississippi River to the Montana Territory, where she became a legendary figure known for her independence, determination, and pioneering spirit.

After gaining her freedom following the Civil War, Fields worked as a chambermaid aboard the steamboat Robert E. Lee. Her life eventually became intertwined with Mother Mary Amadeus, an Ursuline nun who established a school for Native American girls at St. Peter's Mission near Cascade. When Mother Amadeus fell ill, Fields traveled to Montana to care for her and remained at the mission for several years.

Known for her strong personality and colorful language, Fields eventually left the convent and settled in Cascade, where she became a beloved member of the community. She later earned distinction as what is believed to be the first Black woman in the United States to carry U.S. mail on a Star Route, transporting mail between Cascade and St. Peter's Mission.

Budewitz explores the life and legacy of Stagecoach Mary through three interconnected short stories featured in her book All God's Sparrows. In addition to her historical fiction work, Budewitz is the author of the popular Spice Shop Mystery series and the Food Lovers' Village Mysteries. She has also written two mystery novels under the pen name Alicia Beckman.

The evening will include a presentation by Budewitz, followed by a book signing and reception with light refreshments.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, although donations will be accepted at the door.

The event is sponsored by The Bookstore, the Dillon Public Library, the Beaverhead County Museum, and the Dillon Friends of the Library.

For additional information, call 406-683-6807.