Nicola DiGuglielmo’s journey from Andretta, Italy to New Jersey is nothing short of remarkable. Picture a family driven by love and determination, uprooted from their small Italian hometown in search of a brighter future in America. Nicola reflects on his father’s struggle to create opportunities in a land where none existed, and how this relentless spirit paved the way for Nicola’s successful medical career spanning nearly four decades. In this episode, we uncover the layers of his personal and professional life, highlighting the importance of Italian heritage and the meaningful contributions of Italian Americans.
From the humble beginnings in Andretta to the comfort of Long Branch, Nicola paints a vivid picture of his family’s transition from communal living to the modern American lifestyle. We explore the trials and triumphs of this significant shift, touching on memories of his hometown’s transformation and the entrepreneurial spirit of its younger generation. A poignant visit to the family cemetery and the stories from a 97-year-old cousin, acting as the family historian, add depth and richness to Nicola’s narrative, offering listeners a heartfelt connection to his roots.
We also traverse Nicola’s fascinating family history, uncovering stories of theological vocations and political ambitions. Discover how these diverse legacies influenced Nicola’s path in medicine and his daughter’s venture into politics. As we discuss the role of the church and the enduring traditions of his ancestors, Nicola’s reflections offer a sense of belonging and continuity. To round off, we guide you through the cultural marvels of Florence, personal ties to historical families, and the allure of Milan’s vibrant scene. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and memories, blending cultural heritage with practical travel tips for anyone enchanted by Italy’s rich history.
Podcast
Video
The Journey Home — Day 5 — Avellino
Palazzo Caracciolo Click here to join out Facebook group Day five had us going to Avellino the seat of the Princes of Avellino. I honestly had no idea what to expect. When we arrived in the square of the palazzo ( now used for government offices ) it was breathtaking to see an Italian flag in every window. As we entered through the massive arch, we were greeted by a trumpeter and people dressed in
Researching Lettere Campania
Fascinating interview with attorney and author Michael Fattorosi on how a rainy day in Positano led to his uncovering his ancestors in Lettere Campania. Michael has done extensive research and has copied thousands of records from Lettere that he plans to release to the public. Check out his site archiviodilettere.com. And don’t forget the Book Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video
Researching Faicchio Campania
Derrick Townsend tells us when and why he got the calling to start his research and his English dad and Italian mom. Podcast Visit Our Shop Click here to join our group on Facebook Video
Researching Colliano Salerno Campania
Robert talks about his family from Colliano that settled in NJ and Pennsylvania and his grandfather’s murder in the early 1900’s. And meeting Zio Ernesto playing cards in Italy. Robert has made over 30 trips to Italy. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video
Researching Campania and Puglia
Nancy Triggiani-Musco talks about starting her research young and how eventually a discovery on an overlooked census led her to completing her Italian citizenship. Nancy and her husband run a music studio in NJ and you can view her interesting links below. My husband and I own a music school in northern New Jersey and I’m attaching the link to it, as it has important relevance to my Italian family history. https://www.westwoodmusicstudios.com My bio from
Researching Avellino Italy
Stephanie Longo Stephanie Longo is known as an expert on the Italian American history of northeastern Pennsylvania and has authored several works on the subject, including Italians of Northeastern Pennsylvania (2004), Italians of Lackawanna County (2018) and Dunmore (2012), all published by Arcadia Publishing. Her most recent book, Italians of Lackawanna County, was recognized with a Gold Award in the History category in the 2019 Nonfiction Book Awards and with a Gold Award from the