Discover the transformative journey of Bill Sallurday as he uncovers his Italian roots, tracing his family lineage back to the picturesque village of San Cipriano Picentino. With a passion for genealogy, Bill’s relentless research has revealed his family’s true surname, Sabato, and connected over 8,000 individuals through a comprehensive genealogical database. His dedication not only reconnected him with his heritage but also earned him honorary citizenship from the village, highlighting the profound impact of his work. Tune in to hear about the unexpected paths and serendipitous moments that genealogy can lead to, from newfound relatives to heartwarming family reunions. Embark on a personal journey through Italy, as Bill recounts his visit to San Cipriano Picentino, a quaint village at the base of the Amalfi Coast. Through social media, Bill discovered a street painting linked to his ancestors’ home, unveiling deep familial ties and showcasing the power of digital connections in tracing one’s roots. Hear stories of unexpected connections, like a train ride that led to a spontaneous visit to Florence, illustrating how genealogy can bring families closer, bridging distances and generations. Bill’s experience emphasizes the importance of community resources like Antenati, and how they can help unearth rich family histories. Explore the practical side of genealogy research with insights into using Family Tree Maker and Ancestry. Discover how to manage databases, identify duplicates, and creatively utilize search strategies to map the geographic spread of descendants. With tools like Steve Morse’s advanced search interface, listeners can learn to navigate the intricacies of genealogy, from seeking dual citizenship to expanding their family tree globally. This episode is not just about tracing lineage; it’s about inspiring others to embark on their genealogical adventures, enriching their understanding of family history, and connecting with their past in meaningful ways. #italianimmigrants #italianculture Wandering Spectator Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Reflecting on the resilience of our ancestors, this episode journeys through the vibrant narratives of Sicilian heritage and its cultural echoes in the Italian-American communities across the United States. Join us as we hear from Francesca and Manuel, whose roots connect them to Gela, Sicily, with Manuel sharing his role in preserving Italian culture as the president of the historic Italian Athletic Club in San Francisco. We also explore Jerry’s passionate involvement with the St. Joseph’s Society in Boston, where cultural preservation through community events is a cornerstone of his mission. From Francesco’s work in Collesano assisting Americans with discovering their Italian roots to recent legal changes in citizenship, the episode unravels the rich tapestry of shared histories and contemporary connections. Manny recounts his father’s poignant immigration journey post-World War II, a tale of resilience that complements Francesca’s upbringing in Oakland, California, and her reflection on Sicilian identity. Through personal stories, we explore the biases between northern and southern Italy, giving voice to those challenging stereotypes perpetuated by media. Our conversation with Carlo Treviso dives into his novel “Siciliana,” inspired by his Sicilian roots and the historical events like the 1282 Sicilian Vespers Uprising, showing how storytelling reshapes the perception of Sicily’s cultural identity. Ending on a vibrant note, we indulge in the sensory delights of Sicilian cuisine, sharing favorite dishes that evoke memories and cultural pride. From arancini to the infamous spleen sandwich, the flavors of Sicily are a testament to the island’s rich heritage. We delve into the beauty of Sicilian landscapes and the cultural exchanges that occur when contemporary Sicilian life intersects with the Italian-American experience. Art, community, and family stories become powerful tools for preserving history as we invite listeners to embrace their roots and celebrate the diverse narratives that define Sicilian and Italian-American culture. Carlo Treviso Francesco Curione – 007 Italian RecordsSFIAC Michael Cavalieri – Never Forget Your Roots Artist Jean Benfante   Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video Follow Michael Cavalieri on Facebook “The Widow and the Ladder” By Jean Benfante

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lou Paioletti as we uncover the rich legacy of Italian-American heritage in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Lou takes us on a heartfelt journey, sharing his family’s migration story from Tuscany to Hershey, a town renowned for its chocolate but also a beacon of hope for countless Italian immigrants drawn by industrial opportunities. We explore how these families, including Lou’s ancestors, contributed significantly to Hershey’s industrial evolution, particularly in the stone quarries and the broader employment landscape of the 1920s and 1930s. Lou’s personal stories offer a vivid portrayal of maintaining ties across continents. Through shared memories of a father who served in World War II and the cherished weekly calls with relatives in Italy, we delve into the emotional resonance of family bonds that defy distance and time. These narratives are a testament to the enduring connection between Italian-American communities and their cultural roots, highlighted by Lou’s own experiences of gaining citizenship and the magical encounters during visits to Italy. The episode also casts a spotlight on the labor movements of the 1930s, revealing the complex legacy of Milton Hershey. While his projects kept many employed during tough times, they also sparked unrest and a failed strike in 1937, with Italian-Americans at the heart of these events. Through engaging stories and critical reflections, we celebrate the resilience of this vibrant community and debunk stereotypes, acknowledging their vast contributions beyond the confines of popular culture’s limited narratives. Join us as we honor the true legacy of Italian-Americans in shaping not only Hershey but also the broader American landscape. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Imagine uncovering your family’s history through a single photograph. That’s the journey we embark on with Maureen Taylor, the renowned “photo detective,” as we explore the powerful intersection of history and photography. From the meticulous art of traditional photography to the instant gratification of digital captures, we uncover how these images serve as portals to the past. Through personal anecdotes and insights, I reflect on how my father’s career as a New York Daily News photographer ingrained in me a deep appreciation for the stories that photographs tell. These snapshots are not just pictures; they’re stories waiting to be discovered. Ever wondered why people in old photos rarely smile? Society’s norms of seriousness and respectability once dictated expressions, and we explore these fascinating conventions alongside the evolution of photographic technology. From the reversed images of early daguerreotypes to the chemical magic of Polaroid pictures, each photograph holds a piece of history. Join us as we share personal family stories and address the modern film photography trend, where digital often trumps print, leaving tangible memories at risk of being forgotten. Fashion is cyclical, and so is photography, with vintage styles and processes constantly resurfacing. Whether it’s the allure of early salted paper prints or the rewarding challenge of reuniting lost photographs with their owners, these images offer a unique connection to the past. We celebrate individuals like Kate Kelly, whose dedication to preserving these memories echoes our own mission. For those keen on preserving family history, explore my books, “Preserving Your Family Photographs” and “Family Photo Detective,” and tune into Maureen’s podcast, “The Photo Detective,” for more stories and expert advice on safeguarding your family’s photographic legacy. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video Two Great Books by Maureen

Lorraine LoRusso never imagined her sister’s volunteer work would lead to an extraordinary reunion with long-lost family in Italy. Join us as Lorraine shares her heartfelt story of tracing her roots back to the charming town of Vallesaccarda. These discoveries, sparked by ship records and naturalization papers, not only rekindled family ties but also brought to life the enduring legacy of her grandfather, who bravely set sail for America in 1914. We also explore the broader narrative of Italian immigrants in America, highlighting the resilience and sacrifice amidst challenges like language barriers and prejudice. Through Lorraine’s personal anecdotes and our engaging discussion, you’ll gain insight into the efforts to preserve family heritage and the pivotal role DNA testing plays in connecting the past and present. Listen as we reflect on the evolution of these immigrant communities, from bustling city life to settling in the suburbs, and the impact they had on future generations. Our journey extends into the sensory delights of Italian cuisine and the vibrant culture of Naples and New York City. Experience the authenticity of Italian culinary traditions, where simplicity and fresh ingredients reign supreme. Hear mesmerizing tales of navigating the bustling streets of Naples, where the skillful dance of traffic paints a lively portrait of city life. Celebrate with us the rich tapestry of Italian heritage, unveiling the stories that continue to shape our cultural identity and personal histories. Check out Lorraine’s cookbook How To Cook Like a Real Italian https://amzn.to/3YkNjTB Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video