MURRAY - From vendor booths to helicopter rides, the annual Molly B’Damn Gold Rush Days festival promises something for everyone this weekend in the historic mining town of Murray. 

The celebration honors Molly B’Damn, a local folk hero, and draws hundreds to the remote Shoshone County community. All proceeds benefit the nonprofit Molly B’Damn Corporation, which supports local infrastructure and residents in need. 

The festival kicks off Friday with a vendor fair along Prichard Creek Street, but Saturday features the main attractions, including the Dennis Funke Memorial Car Show, helicopter rides, family activities in the park, and the Molly B’Damn Day Parade. 

“The Molly B’Damn Corporation is a nonprofit group,” said Teresa Musgrove, event organizer and corporation secretary. “We maintain the park and cemetery, replace street lights, and help community members in need. We want to help our community.” 

Molly B’Damn, born Maggie Hall in 1853, adopted the name Molly Burdan after marrying a wealthy New Yorker. Following their divorce, she moved west, working as a prostitute. She arrived in Murray in 1884, where a miscommunication reportedly led to her being called Molly B’Damn. Despite the stigma of being a prostitute, she became known for her charitable work and community spirit. 

The corporation continues Molly's legacy by supporting the town’s upkeep and residents. 

Molly B'Damn Days is August 15 - 17

Saturday’s schedule includes: 

Vendors and activities all day 

Dennis Funke Memorial Car Show at 8 a.m. 

Molly B’Damn Parade at 1 p.m. 

Car show awards and Molly B’Damn Queen announcement at 3 p.m.