Famous Louisvillians: Mary Travers (#4)

Tweet

Oh, good, everyone has heard of the top four. That’s right, I’ve saved the most popular for last in my list of famous people who were born here in Louisville, the hometown of my heart. (Quick aside: Grandpa Jones, who did that song “Eight More Miles to Louisville,” was not born in Louisville!) Here’s today’s singing Louisvillian. #4: Mary Travers If she had a hammer, it’d probably be leaving on a jet plane! One-third of the legendary folk act Peter, Paul, and Mary was born right here! Of course, she didn’t stay here long (like a two-year-old wanted to scamper out of here ), as her family moved to New York City when Mary was a toddler. At least we can claim her, though!!! It’s funny: the “folk revival” of the 50s was almost over when Peter, Paul, and Mary formed in 1961. The trio — Travers, Peter Yarrow, and Paul Stookey — managed to hold their own in a world of Elvis and the Beatles, scoring major hits such as “Puff, the Magic Dragon” and their swan song, the John Denver composition “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” Travers released solo albums in the 70s until the trio reformed, doing folk festivals and concerts to appreciative audiences of old and new fans. The trio only broke up with Travers’ death from leukemia in 2009. Peter, Paul, and Mary have been inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. They remain a fond memory for many children of the 60s. Mary Travers Born Mary Allin Travers November 9, 1936 Died September 16, 2009 (leukemia) Member of legendary folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary Sing along!!