Sons of Italy: A Century in the Making

When a town has good roots it flourishes, and Southington is blessed to have several great community organizations. The Sons of Italy is one in particular that's been around for a long time.

The organization commemorated its 100th anniversary in 2010 and their history is now on display at the Southington Historical Society Museum.

When George Trostel, board member for the Southington Historical Society, had the idea to have the exhibit, fellow members of the society were happy to take part in the planning. The idea was to showcase organizations that have helped build a town 'spirit' and while Sons of Italy is a private club, its sphere of outreach and generosity go beyond 'membership'. 

"We are busy with numerous charitable causes," said Jim Lucente, President of UNICO and the Southington Sons of Italy. "We work with social services, Relay For Life, the MS Walk and give scholarships to Southington High School students. It was a nice feeling to be acknowledged by the Historical Society." 

The club also hosts its annual summer 'Italian Festival' each July, closing Center Street to car traffic and creating a block party complete with music performances, Italian specialty foods and carnival games for families. Everyone in town, Italian or not, comes out to enjoy the event. This year will mark its seventh year. 

Historical Society Vice-President Fern Wildman-Schrier deciphered the founding members of Sons of Italy club using genealogy records. Each members history and place of origin is documented and mapped out.

"Many of the items on display are personal memorabilia and relics on loan from Sons of Italy members," said Southington Historical Society President Ken DiMauro. "Southington is approximately one-third Italian. My grandparents emigrated to America from Sicily. They came through Ellis Island like so many did, during the early 1900's. I only wish I could have gone back to visit that point of entry with them before they passed. It's nice to remember those who worked hard to create a life here for generations to come."

"Strength of Southington: Sons of Italy” will be on display through August. For more information visit: Southington Historical Society.