From Italy to America at the Greenwich Historical Society

Apr 01, 2013 2029

From Italy to America combines an installation celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Italian-American community in Greenwich, Connecticut, with a complementary exhibition of 26 black and white photographs from the show From Italy to America: The Photographs of Anthony Riccio, organized by the Bellarmine Museum of Art, and Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut.

Anthony Riccio grew up in New Haven's Italian community where he documented a way of life that was fast disappearing. Seeing the incredible faces in his photos makes viewers realize how important it is to recognize the stories of Italian-Americans living in this community before we lose them.

From Italy to America also includes historic memorabilia, photos, objects and documents found by the Greenwich Historical Society "discovery team" led by board member Pat Dillon, Bea Crumbine and guest curator Kathie Bennewitz and aided by the St. Lawrence Society, St. Roch's Parish, the Greenwich Library and its Oral History Project.

Residents of Italian heritage from all over town unearthed material for the exhibition from closets, attics, trunks and family coffers and shared recollections of the individuals, institutions, events and traditions that shaped the Italian-American community and the town. Over forty residents discussed the Italian-American immigrant experience in Greenwich. Interview segments produced by an Emmy Award winning creative Director, Peter Savigny is available on www.greenwichhistory.org.

This Exhibition is through June 30, 2013 at the Greenwich Historical Society Storehouse Gallery, 39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob and is open Wednesday-Sunday, noon to 4 pm. Members (and children 6 and under): free. Nonmembers: $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and students. Private group tours are available by appointment. 203-869-6899; www.greenwichhistory.org

For area information www.visitfairfieldcountyct.com

by Janet Serra

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