They went everywhere per the records

by Rose

My family came directly to Brooklyn from several small towns North of Naples in Italy around 1900: Pomigliana d'Arco, Acerra, Sant' Anastasia and others.

I knew there were cousins who went to Chicago and kept in touch on my mother's side. When the Ellis Island records came online, I found that both sides of the family went to Chicago, New York, Connecticut and other states. The families helped one another out, lending money for passage, providing living arrangements for the newcomers.

I am grateful to my grandparents. Because of their sacrifices the generation before me lived mostly a good existence, if not wealthy at least more safe from World Wars I and II although the men of that age served honorably in the Armed Forces and Merchant Marine. While I don't know the distant cousins personally who went to Chicago and other cities, I am aware of the connection.

Despite the hardships they were decent, hardworking people. Occasionally I see pictures and names of these people who have accomplished something good and am proud to say they are from my heritage.

Sites such as this are very important for preserving stories and recipes and our culture in general.