History Alive! Mother Jones

The family of Mary Harris "Mother" Jones immigrated to the US from Ireland hoping to escape famine and unemployment.  After marrying and moving to Memphis, a yellow fever epidemic killed her husband and all four children.  The great Chicago fire of 1871 destroyed her dress-making business and she spent the rest of her life helping organize unions, especially among coal miners.  She spoke at rallies throughout West Virginia supporting the United Mine Workers of America, and played an important role in strikes along the New River Gorge, Paint Creek and Cabin Creek, and during events before the Battle of Blair Mountain.

Portrayed by Karen Vuranch of Fayetteville

This presentation is a History Alive! Program of the West Virginia Humanities Council. This event is sponsored by the Harrison County Cultural Foundation and the Friends of Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library.