Singer-songwriter Mary Travers was born in Louisville, Kentucky to journalist parents. When she was two years old, Mary moved to New York City. Living in Greenwich Village, Mary went to the progressive Little Red Schoolhouse, where she discovered her love of folk music. She sang backup for Pete Seeger singing pro-union folk songs. In 1961 Mary joined the group Peter, Paul and Mary and became immediately successful. Her beautiful alto voice was instantly recognizable. Peter, Paul and Mary's albums topped the charts and popularized folk music. The trio performed at the 1963 Civil Rights March in Washington, DC. and participated in the 1963 Selma-Montgomery March. The group broke up in 1970 so the performers could develop solo careers. During that time, Mary found success and created five albums. Peter, Paul and Mary reunited in 1978 and the performance was so successful they remained together as a singing trio, touring extensively throughout the world. Through her music Mary was an activist and champion for social justice and peace. Mary, who died in 2009, remains beloved by folk music fans around the world.