Ruth Jones McVeigh, a prominent figure in the establishment of Canada’s renowned Mariposa Folk Festival, has passed away at the age of 99. Jones McVeigh, who died in Ottawa on Wednesday, played a crucial role in creating the long-standing annual music event known for its community focus and resilience against various challenges. Since its inception in 1961, the festival has hosted iconic artists like Gordon Lightfoot, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Bob Dylan.
Michael Hill, a former artistic director of the festival, emphasized the cultural impact of Mariposa, attributing much of its success to Ruth Jones McVeigh. Born in Halifax, Jones McVeigh began her career in journalism in Nova Scotia before relocating to Ontario with her family. In the late 1940s, she settled in Orillia with her husband, Crawford Jones, and four children.
Inspired by a motivational speaker’s suggestion to boost tourism through signature events, Jones McVeigh initiated the festival in Orillia in 1961 after attending folk gatherings in Toronto. Over the years, she navigated location changes to accommodate the festival’s growth, moving venues from Toronto Islands to Barrie before returning to Orillia in 2000.
Mariposa’s inclusive environment attracted a diverse range of artists, from local talents like Ian & Sylvia and Gordon Lightfoot to international stars like Pete Seeger and Joan Baez. The festival featured performances by Canadian children’s musicians and Indigenous artists, evolving with the times while staying true to the essence of folk music, as emphasized by Jones McVeigh.
Despite a brief hiatus from organizing due to personal reasons, Jones McVeigh remained connected to the festival, providing crucial support during challenging times in 1987. Her dedication to nurturing young talent was evident in her support for emerging artists, such as Samantha Windover, whom she mentored and encouraged to perform on the festival’s main stage.
Jones McVeigh’s legacy lives on through Mariposa’s Hall of Fame and an online archive at York University dedicated to preserving the festival’s history. Her profound impact on the folk music community and her dedication to Mariposa’s success were recognized and cherished by those who knew her. Her family, including her brother, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, continue to honor her memory as she leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of folk music.