In this episode I talk to Angelo Coniglio about his family research and his book “The Lady of the Wheel”. Angelo explains naming conventions of the abandoned children and how poorly they were treated. This is a story set in Racalmuto, Sicily in the late nineteenth century. As historical fiction, it deals with a heartbreaking aspect of parenting: the practice of of leaving unwanted children in a revolving door or wheel (ruota) of a church, hospital or foundling home, so that the children would be cared for or placed for adoption. In some towns, the receiver of foundlings was called ‘la ruotara’ or ‘la ruotaia’ (the lady of the wheel).
Discover the transformative journey of Bill Sallurday as he uncovers his Italian roots, tracing his…
Reflecting on the resilience of our ancestors, this episode journeys through the vibrant narratives of…
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lou Paioletti as we uncover the rich legacy…
Imagine uncovering your family’s history through a single photograph. That's the journey we embark on…
Lorraine LoRusso never imagined her sister's volunteer work would lead to an extraordinary reunion with…
Imagine discovering that your family's story spans centuries and continents, connecting you to people and…
