Ruth Jones McVeigh, one of the founders of the renowned Mariposa Folk Festival in Canada, passed away at the age of 99 in Ottawa. She played a crucial role in establishing the enduring annual music event, which has become one of the longest-running folk festivals in North America, attracting artists like Gordon Lightfoot, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Bob Dylan over the years.
Michael Hill, a former artistic director of the festival, highlighted Jones McVeigh’s significant contribution to Mariposa’s cultural impact, making it a well-known event even for those who have not attended. Born in Halifax, Jones McVeigh started her career in journalism in Nova Scotia before relocating to Ontario, where she married Crawford Jones and settled in Orillia in the late 1940s.
Inspired by her love for folk music and the need for a community gathering, Jones McVeigh initiated the festival in Orillia in 1961, drawing inspiration from similar events and promoting it through various channels. The festival faced challenges, including changing locations over the years, but continued to attract renowned musicians and foster a sense of community among attendees.
From its inception to the present day, Mariposa has featured a diverse range of performers, from traditional folk artists like Ian & Sylvia to contemporary acts like Serena Ryder. Jones McVeigh believed that folk music, despite evolving over time, continues to resonate by telling stories that matter to people.
Despite stepping back from organizing the festival after its initial years, Jones McVeigh continued to support and advocate for Mariposa’s survival, playing a pivotal role in securing its future during financial difficulties in 1987. She nurtured young talent through the festival, providing opportunities for emerging artists like Samantha Windover, who credits Jones McVeigh for her support and encouragement.
Jones McVeigh’s legacy at Mariposa was honored with her induction into the festival’s Hall of Fame in 2005. Her dedication and impact on the festival’s history are preserved in an online archive by York University, showcasing the festival’s evolution and Jones McVeigh’s personal contributions.
In her own words in 2013, Jones McVeigh expressed her hope that Mariposa would continue to thrive long after her passing, considering it one of her greatest achievements alongside her family. She is survived by her brother, six children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
