EAST HARLEM SNAPSHOTS
Patiently waiting in line, to enter the Jefferson Park Pool Pavilion, circa 1940. Link to photo credit: www.pinterest.com/pin/408560997417598149/
2nd Avenue Elevated-near East 104th Street. March 21, 1941
Photo Credit: New York Historical Society.
2nd Avenue Elevated-near East 104th Street. March 21, 1941
Photo Credit: New York Historical Society.
Looking Towards 2nd Avenue Elevated-on East 105th Street. March 21, 1941
Photo Credit: New York Historical Society.
2nd Avenue Elevated-near East 108th Street. March 21, 1941
Photo Credit: New York Historical Society.
Notice the Verona Theatre, way back to the right. It was located on 2nd Ave between East 107th & E. 108th Street. Unfortunately, it was torn down in the 1960’s, to build the Franklin Houses. 😦
Photo Credit: New York Historical Society.
Italian Harlem 
jimmy paolino
the 2nd to last picture is my cousin arthur and his family’s ( Ida,& joe nigro )place the charkolette formerly called the colonial tea room.I can’t tell if thats arthur out front if not i’m not sure who it is. lol jimmy
LikeLike
I realize my reply is ridiculously late, but I grew up on Pleasant Avenue and knew Ida and Joe Nigro well; also knew Artie and his sister (Libby, I think) and her husband Frank Pandolf. They also had a son named Joey who I knew very well even though he was a few years younger than me. I know Ida nad Joe have passed but would love to know about the others.
LikeLike
I talked to Joe Pandolf not long ago. We lived not far from them when we moved to Flushing. Pandolf’s parents were good friends with my parents. Libby and Frank passed away. Please email me and hopefully we can speak.
LikeLike
email address crabdigger@gmail.com
LikeLike
Libby and frank passed away. Libby passed away last year, Frank about 2 or 3 years ago. Joseph lives in Pennsylvania, near New Kensington. My cousin Michael(Mikey Frogs) and I met with Joseph last year for dinner when he was in New York. Arthur is “in the country” My dad and Arthur,s Mom, my Aunt Ida were brother and sister. I,m from the Paolino side. We lived at 362 ahun 21,st street. Annette Artie’s wife is up in the Bronx. I,ll be on Pleasant Avenue in August for O,Giglio and in September for the father&son stickball game with Mikey Lentini. His brothewr Moe passed away last year.
LikeLike
my name is frank budano. I lived one flight over the char-ko-lette after I was born in1953. lived next door to Arthur’s sister Libby and Frank Pandoff. My grandmother lived on the top floor. Also remembered the people above me who had two boys, Aldo and Dicky. I had great memories growing up and will never forgot Char-ko-lettes hamburgers and malteds. I remembered Ida very well growing up.
LikeLike
Hi Frank,
Welcome to virtual Italian Harlem! Check out my photo gallery-vintage photos page. I have a photo of Char-ko-lette there!
Best,
Angela
LikeLike
Frank, I grew up with Joey Panda and Dicky (who still had an Italian accent in the 60s.). We hung out 117 and Pleasant
LikeLike
If I am not mistaken, you are my Great Uncle Danny’s son? My grandfather was his older brother, Angelo.
LikeLike
WOW. the last picture is my grandfather’s house. I used to play in that front yard!
LikeLike
Yes my grandfather’s house! I remember the front porch and back yard with ornate statues! My father Tony LaSaracina went back to his boyhood home many times after everyone had left and moved away.
LikeLike
I told my friend Dom figara about this site.he was born in East Harlem.
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
LikeLike
I wonder if anyone knewthe la piallo family Michael & his brother Johnny
LikeLike
Angela…Great pictures.and great site…thanks much…brings nice memories..
LikeLike
Hi Angela, my name is George Di Leo. My parents came to America in 1926 settling in Lawrence, MA. To my parents friends it was known as Lorenzo Masso. My father came to America in 1924 to lay the ground work for bringing his beloved wife Anna to America. They then moved to E. 70th Street in Manhattan for a few years. .In the mid-30s they moved to 423 E. 123rd St in East Harlem and then to 414 E. 123rd St. They had a huge player piano that was moved which put a huge V-dent in the roof from ropes lowering the piano out of the window of their apartment. In the late 30s to early 40s they moved to rooms behind a store front, at 2399 First Ave, at the corner of 123rd Street. They operated a bread store then added vegetables. It finally became Epifaneo E Di Leo Delicatessen and we moved to an apartment across the street at 2394 First Avenue. The Deli was between Piragnoli’s Funeral Chapel and Dominicks ESSO station at the corner of 123rd St. and First Avenue. It became a well known Deli due to my parents hallmark becoming their quality cold cuts and salads and the only deli with 200 lb provolones hanging in the window. My dad actually picked his provolone, with a cork screw, from the docks through Daniele Products.
The Montevergine feast was held every year on First Avenue between 123rd St and 119th St and run by the Piragnoli’s and Mottola’s. We did our sausage and clam stand and I did the schucking, oh my poor fingers. The band stand was across the street and our East Harlem Mambo King, of Palladium fame, and wrap around coat danced for everyone every night. My father previously worked for Morvillos (? spelling) of 106th St and they supplied the bread for our Deli. Zinzi who owned Zinzi’s paper, cardboard, and everything else collection business supplied the wine for our stand. He made the best white wine in New York.
My hangout was at Jimmy’s candy store around the corner from our deli on 123rd. St. We would congregate on Jimmy’s candy store milk box and harmonize…..we were really good and should have cut a record. Jimmy’ son Larry played the trumpet and took singing lessons. He finally took the name Larry Bene and started a group. I can’t remember the name but they did release a number of records and performed with Jackiie Mason and others.
I remember the great Holy Rosary marching band of which I was a one valve trumpet player. We would march through East Harlem each year for Confirmation Sunday and what a turnout we had watching us. Those were the days of Monsignor Archese, Father Mazziata, and others.
I remember my Suunday afternoon dinners when I was tasked with going to the corner bar with my father’s tin beer can for a fill up at fifty cents, wow. I also remember we did many sandwich orders for the many Italian Football Weddings, and oh did they fly.
I remember stringing wire antennas on the roof so mom and dad could receive broadcasts from Italy on their short wave radio. They were extremely nationalistic with complete dedication to Italy
I remember the picnics on the grassy hills at Orchard Beach and finally graduating to Jones Beach. We were a family of six children and we would pack into the back of dad’s bread delivery van and sing all the way to and from Jones Beach.
There was a lot of pride in Italian East Harlem especially from the very strong Italian women, they were amazing. My mom worked along side dad during all the years of operating the Deli in East Harlem and the Bronx. She did the books and ordering and taking care of customers. I was the youngest deli clerk in New York and started cutting cold cuts when I was 11 years old.
Then the 50s rolled around and we had meetings in the old Palace movie theatre known as the dump on second avenue and 123rd Street. That was about the announced projects that the Mayor of New York and Robert Moses, who both hated East Harlem and vowed to break it up, were going to build. The site was between 120th Street and 124th Street from First Avewnue to the East River Drive. I’ll never forget the deep mental anguish they caused when they announced that a business needed to be operating withing a very short time of begining construction. Of course that marked the end of any business in that area since they wouldn’t be paid for relocating. How could they meet the announced time frame, all residents would have already moved and the business’ would all have failed. My folks opened the new Deli on White Plains Rd and 219th St.. I’ll never forget opening day. They had used all of their savings and on opening day we stood in front of the store to greet customers. They opened with a few dollars and change in the register……their stamina and refusal to give up and be beaten resulted in developing another successful Epifaneo S Di Leo Delicatessen with a following of many previous East Harlem residents who had moved to New Jersey, Connecticut,
Long Island, Westchester County and the Bronx. That success story and character of East Harlemites is what East Harlem was all about. Strength, Character, do it at any cost, and never give up attitude. My parents and family and their friends were the essence of East Harlem. That was a once in a lifetime occurence. Do you want proof…..from Anna and Epifaneo Di Leo came four daughters and two sons. Five of us went to college and my brother became one of the best New York City Cab Drivers. This grew into a family of seven teachers including a principle, Lehman HS assistant principle, engineers through marriage, grandchildren in music production, movie Poduction Artist and Art director and all grandchildren except one going to college. That one became a New York City Police Gold Badge. I must mention the son of my best friend who attended Cardinal Hayes HS with me. His son is the CEO of Marvel Studios in Hollywood. Of course let us not forget James Luisi. NBA player and successful actor in Hollytwood.
As for me, after serving in the Air Force during the Korean War, I became an Air Traffic Controller climbing to positions as a supervisor and facility manager.
We lived through a period of extreme discrimination and hateful comments about and against Italians. I’ll never forget how my parents were hurt by that. But, they lived through it and survived in a glorious fashion. That my friends is the badge of honor of the people of Italian East Harlem.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hello George,
Thanks so much for you wonderful comment. I enjoyed reading it! 🙂
Best regards,
Angela
LikeLike
I went to Cardinal Hayes and graduated in 1956. I played foot ball for them. I lived on 115 street across from Mt. Carmel. I still have lots of friends from the neighborhood. We keep in touch. I also played for the Mt.Carmel when we played in a semi pro league and Mikey Lentini was the quarter back and I was a half back. We won 3 championships out of the 5 seasons I played and then I got drafted. No silly into the Army. Our coach was a guy named Zooch. We never knew his real name and he lived on 116th st.
Yes it was a great neighborhood and an education at best. You could not learn more about life and what was good and bad. .
LikeLike
Hi Vincent,
Thank you for your comment. I know Mikey Lentini! He, and my dad were friends. I am doing some family history research for Mikey. I’ll tell him that you said hi. 🙂
LikeLike
Are u my old coach Ponzo this is. Frankie #74 just like my brother Nickey beans . If that’s you just like to say thanks for everything you did for all of us kids you are our hero for keeping most of us out of trouble.
LikeLike
Wonderful. I had the pleasure to know Monsignor McCormick while he was pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary on State Street downtown, he was the dean of discipline at Cardinal Hayes, most likely in the 1960s after you graduated. God bless. I view all these posts and pictures with a mix of sadness and joy. Sadness because its gone, joy because I experienced so much of this growing up in Brooklyn, the grandson of Italian immigrants from Ischia, Napoli and Castillo Mare del Golfo Sicilia. As I sit in my office 49 stories high in lower Manhattan with a view of the Statue of Liberty I often think about the great sacrifices my wonderful grandparents made to give us a better life in this great country America. May they and all our ancestors rest in the peace of Christ.
LikeLike
My brother # 74 Nick Budano played with you on the semi pro league who later played for de Witt Clinton later I believe Ponzo became your coach and also started a younger team who also went undefeated and unscored upon two great football teams from East Harlem great friends great memories great way to grow up.
LikeLike
I am also a Hayes graduate. I went there 1952-1956 and played football for them. What a great school. All my friends went there. We did not want to go to Bengamin? Franklin even though it was only 100 yards away. I also played for Mt. Carmel football team with Micky Lentini.
LikeLike
I believe you play ball with my brother Nickey Budano nickname Nickey beans # 74.
LikeLike
Wow, i really enjoyed reading that George. My grandfather was Frank Zinzi who was part owner of the junk show with his brothers Pat, Sal and Lou and ofcourse the father Andrea Zinzi. I wish i had some pictures from back then..Please any info, pics or stories email write me here or at peterzinzi@yahoo.com. This is wonderful to hear about the old neighborhood.
LikeLike
Thanks for your story; it brought back a memory of that movie house called “the Dump”. I used to go there with friends in the late 1940s. Yes, that Commissioner Moses was evil, and uprooted so many families and friends. We left E. 122nd St. and moved up to 2nd Ave. Soon after, we left for Brooklyn.
LikeLike
OMG, I know Mikey Lentini too. He was such a nice guy. I grew up in East Harlem too. I used to go to the Jefferson pool all the time when I was a kid. I remember a horse trough in front of it where the horses would drink. We hung out in the park too and used to climb the fence to get into the pool at night.
LikeLike
I also remember the Char-Ko-lette on 116th Street between Pleasant Ave and the East River Drive.
LikeLike
I was born over the char-lol-Iette in 1953 my family was good friends with the Pandoff family .I played football when Turkey was Our quarterback good team great guys great memories .#74
LikeLike
Hi my name Frank Megaro from 1939 to1964 I lived at 2125 first ave between 109 110 set went to st.annes school 110st my great cousin was father rofrano was pastor of st annes church and our lady of my Carmel church I loved the snap shots
LikeLike
Hi Frank,
Thank you for stopping by! In 1931, Father Rofrano was an alter boy at St. Ann’s on ahun 10th. He was there for the marriage ceremony of my dad’s Aunt Nancy, in June of 1931.Also, “Big Mike” Capra was the best man! I recall from the Ellis Island immigration records, that my great grandfather once lived at 2123 First Ave., just next store to where you lived in 1939. Although that was way back in 1903, do you remember that building? Today, it is an empty lot. I’m not sure when they tore down that tenement building.
Back to Father Rofrano, I had the honor to meet him just before he died. I went down to visit my great aunt Columbia, who was still living in East Harlem. It was the spring of 2006. 10 years ago. I’m sure glad that I was able to speak with him, although just for a few minutes. He seemed like a very nice man, and he remembered my family as well! I lived in the neighborhood from 1962-1966. I was only 4 when my family moved up to the Bronx. Although I don’t have many memories of East Harlem days of my own, I cherish and preserve the memories of my dad, and his family. Our family roots go back to 1901 in East Harlem. I am proud to be an East Harlemite, even if I was just a child when we moved out. Through this website, I am able to share the memory of a once great neighborhood. And in so doing, all that visit this website can share their fond memories as well! Tutti bene! It’s all good! 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks for all your work. I enjoy reading about my neighborhood. I lived about 50 yards from Ben Franklin High School but I and my friends went to Cardinal Hayes in the Bronx. thanks again….Vincent Ponzo
LikeLike
Is that a photo of the filming of The Godfather with “Carlo” and “James Cann on the stoop on 118th St above?? If so is that building still standing?? Thanks Kenny
LikeLike
Yes, it is. 503 East 118th Street is still there. 505 and 507 were razed, sometime in the 1990’s.
LikeLike
also the guy with his back to you with a hat on is nicky beals
LikeLike
This is awesome! I loved on E ahun sixth between 2nd and 3rd. My mothers father had a pasta store on 2nd avenue and 106th and my fathers father had a latticinni on 107th. Moved to Flushing in 1952 when I was three. Love reading all the comments.
LikeLike
Love reading about East Harlem. It was a special place for sure. I spent the first 19 years of my life in a Brownstone at 433 Pleasant Avenue – from 1934 to 1953. Married a beautiful girl named Marie Raimo who lived at 437 Pleasant Avenue. It was officially called “The Grandview”, but those of us who lived in the Brownstones called it the “Big House” – not to be confused with the upstate residence for unruly citizens! Our house was on Pleasant Avenue between 122 and 123 Street. We played stickball on the avenue but went to 124th Street park for handball, basketball and softball on an asphalt paved playing field. Went to Holy Rosary Church, was an altar boy, went to P.S. 78, Thomas Jefferson Jr. H.S. (part of Benjamin H.S.), St. Cecelia on 106th Street, Cardinal Hayes H.S., Manhattan College and Fairleigh Dickenson University. Marie went to P.S. 80, Cathedral H.S., and Fordham University. We faced the East River Drive, the East River and Randall’s Island. In the summer when we didn’t have the 11 cents for Jefferson pool, the Harlem River right next to the Willis Avenue bridge was our pool.
Edward Filardo
LikeLike
Hello Edward, From 1946 to 1953, I lived around the corner from you at 447 E. 122nd St. As small children, we used to walk across the Triboro bridge to Randall’s Island. Imagine – in those days it was that safe.
LikeLike
Dear Joan, Just strolling through the East Harlem website and came across your reply. Did you know Robert Aquino, Matthew Genevese, Frank Formato (father owned candy store between Pleasant Ave. and 1st Ave. on 122nd street. There was also Eleanor Lucchese and Mary Beffi. There was also a casket factory closer to Pleasant Ave. Marie Raimo, my wife went to P.S. 80 with these kids – I went to P.S. 78 and did not play with them. Most of my friends lived on Pleasant Ave. Albert Di Georgio, sister Nancy, Frankie Giampettruzzi, Allie Monson, Johnny Zoccolillo, Pastorino brothers, Walter Ciatollo, and a few from 123rd Street – Johnny Apples, Girly, Frances Corrillo, Joannie Moran.
Left East Harlem in ’51, lived in Palisade Park with my mom, then Manhattan College, Korea, back to Manhattan College, looked up Marie Raimo, married her in ’58, have 4 children – 2 boys and 2 girls, moved to California in ’67, retired as an aerospace engineer in ’95 and living the good life built on the foundation of East Harlem. It was a special place, filled with wonderful people, Holy Rosary and Mt. Carmel Churches, view of the East River and Randall’s Island, grocery stores, Patsy’s Pizzeria, pastry shops, Jefferson pool, Settleman House, bread stores, vegetable stores, pork stores, schools with teachers who loved teaching, and most importantly – families. Families that ate together, laughed together, cried together, thought “Work” was a beautiful four letter word, and held that the family name was to be honored and treasured. What a gift God gave me when I was born at 433 Pleasant Ave. and having the formative years of my life surrounded by such wonderful people.
LikeLike
Hi Ed, George Di Leo here. I lived on 123rd st, between pleasant and first, then to First Avenue across from our family Deli next to the Esso gas station. I believe Marie went to school with my sister vincenza Di Leo. I believe there was a brother who was my friend.
We lived in East Harlem until 1952 when Mayor ODwyer kicked out italians by building the project. I also graduated from Cardinal Hayes in 1950. I was great friends with Ray Pastorino who you probably knew. I guess you remember the red heads on 123rd st., I’m still in touch with Nicky Red. In addition to Ray there was Spera who lived near to you.
wow I’ll never forget diving off the Willis Ave bridge into who knows what.
George Di Leo
LikeLike
George; Marie has a brother, now about 87 , name Generoso or Joey. On 123rd there was Annette Di Leo. Her brother was Robert ( an older brother), he was friends with Muzzy Datoli who lived above the Pastorinis on the corner of 123rd and Pleasant Avenue. I played ball with a boy named Apples who lived near the Flour Factory on 123rd. Joe Black, his sister was called “Girly”, also Marie went to school with Joannie Moran and Frances Corillo. I remember the Deli, the Esso Station, and around the corner from the station was a Candy Store. Of Couse there was the Palace Theatre (alias the Dump). Every Tuesday they gave out dishes, saucers, cups. I guess that is why we always felt at home when we went to our friends, houses. We all had the same chinaware! Wthout being too politically correct, do you remember the deli called “Harry the Jew” on 123rd ? About swimming in the Harlem river – that’s why we all were tremendous breast stroke swimmers. Always had to clear away just about everything that was flushed, ha! Sonny Spera was and is still friends with my older brother Frank. Spera’s wifes name is Esther. Stata Corte!
LikeLike
Ed, you sure brought back memories, who could forget Muzzy. When lived on Long Island in the early 70s we had a lot of get togethers with Spera and Esther and Ray Pastorino and Amelia. By the way Amelia passed of ovarian cancer about 5 years ago. Ray came down with Alzheimer’s after moving in with his adopted son Russel, in the Carolinas. Ray passed a few years ago, I was really saddened by that, we were very close.
the candy store on 123rd St was Jimmy’s, we used to harmonize on his milk box. Hi son Larry Porky Beneduce did really well singing. He originated the Bell Hops and was front for all the big ones including Sinatra, Bobby Dylan, and frequently at the Copa. He lives in Florida, still singing and still sounds good. Do you remember Mario ‘stick with me you’ll wear diamonds” from 123rd between 1st and 2nd. He was set up in a drug bust in DC by the food fellas, I think. He spent a few years in jail and when he came out in about 1957 we gave him a great coming home party in an after hours joint Ray Pastorino and I owned in the Bronx. Whtt a party and what a turnout, only the boys from E. Harlem would do that.
Mario Colluci lives in Florida near Larry Porky Bene, his performance name. I keep in touch with them.
Speaking of the ‘Dump’, remember the candy and ice cream outlet under the stage. They also gave out encyclopedias. My mom through me collected the whole set. My sister Vincenza still has the original set, what a collector item.
I remember when things wer getting a little out of control and
Tony Piragnoli, owner of Piragnoli’s Funeral home next to our Deli, started having huge traveling crap games and card games in the funeral chapel. I was in the Air Force and my brother sent me the Daily News front page with the police escorting everyone out of the chapel. My brother said Tony came running through our Deli from the back yard with the detectives in hot pursuit. My father was yellin…’hey get out of were we sell salami…etc.
I left a fortune in E. Harlem. In the basement of our deli I had a large box full of original baseball cards, including some Babe Ruth’s and Gehriq’s cards. There was a fortuen in that box in today’s dollars. It’t buried under the projects. l”ve always kidded Mario that we should go back, get a bull dozer and dig it up.
Do you remember when I was one of the only catcher’s who would catch for Boneshfsky, from 1245h st., Roland from W. Harlem, and several other really great fast ball pitcher’s. I was a young kid and I had more guts then brains sitting right under the batters bats.
For awhile I was also the bell boy for the traveling crap games, the good fellas ran, in an empty lot on 123rd St between 1st and Pleasant, next to the factory. All the diamond merchants from the diamond center were always there. Once in awhile the district would initiate a raid, My job was to ring the bell when I saw them coming. The buckets of money were pulled up to the apartment roofs on both sides and the players scrambled over fences. Some of those old guys set olympic high jump records. Do you remember the Tip Top club, I think that was the name, the big guys had on I think on 121st or 120th . My brother belonged to it. Do you remember Crazy…..somehting, he used to on a running jump climb up the wall of the garage. on 123rd, and then doing a header on the way down. He was the original spider man. He actually ran up the wall, amazing.
I don’t know if you remember Robby Turkey, from 123rd bet 1st and 2nd. He was way up in the mob and a banker. Well a guy named Angelo Cigar head, ran numbers for Robbie, was married to Robbies sister in-law. Well he got caught flying out of Robbies apartment fire escape when Robbie caught him with his wife. Robbie beat the hell out of him in Joe Bimbo’s pool hall on 123rd and 2nd Ave. Robbie must have broke 20 pool sticks over Angelo’s head. That was the end of Angelo;s career as a number runner. Robbie was a great shortstop and made it to the Yankee farm tryouts. That wasn’t in the cards for him and gave it up to be one of the good fellas. I was a good friend of his younger brother.. He once took us to his underground gambling palace in NJ. Wow what an operation that was.
Well that’s a little of the E. Harlem history not talked about very much. Stand by for the next episode.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Enjoyed reading this , my father was from 123rd st his cousin is Larry Bene, not sure if you knew any of the DeBiase Fami,y?
LikeLike
I’m new to this blog but thought I’d weigh in. We lived on ahun sixth between 2nd and 3rd. My mothers father, nonno Rocco from Partanna, Sicily, had a pasta/macaroni store on 2nd Ave. and106th. My fathers father, nonno Tonino, from San Fratello, Sicily, had a latticinni at 311E107th. They lived across the street on the second floor where my father was born as were his five brothers. My grandfather made mozzarella and ricotta on 107th until 1928 when he rented and then bought (1929) a creamery and house in Hunterdon County NJ. He then shipped the cheese packed in ice on the RR to a ferry in NJ, brought it across to Manhattan then uptown to Harlem. My father opened a latticinni on 10th street and first ave. circa 1940 and ran it until 1948; we moved from 106th to Flushing in 1952. We left Flushing for CT in ’64. I’ve been back to ahun sixth many times and have photos. Great stories and memories.
LikeLike
I am the Executive Director of Union Settlement Association (www.unionsettlement.org), which has been in East Harlem since 1895. There is an interesting timeline on our website at http://unionsettlement.org/about/union-settlement-timeline/.
I’m definitely curious to know if any of you (or your family members) participated in our programs. I’d also be interested in getting copies of photographs of East Harlem, during any era.
You can reach me directly at dnocenti@unionsettlement.org.
LikeLike
does anyone know where stroncone pastry shop was located
LikeLike
There was a pastry store on 2nd Av. About 1/2 block from 106. It was next door to Cinquemani’s Funeral Home but I can’t remember the name. I have some photos and will check.
LikeLike
Does anyone have pictures/stories related to the Zinzi & sons junk shop on 127th st in East Harlem? The shop was owned by my great grandfather, I would love to know any other information or history for my family. Thanks.
LikeLike
You may mean Stroncones Pastry. My mom’s maiden name was Carroccio. They lived ahun 7.
My grandparents were Sal, Maria & cousins Louigi.
LikeLike
Buon giorno. My grandparents lived on E107th and had a Laticcinni across the street at 310 E. 107th. My grandfathers name was Antonino Carroccio and he ad one brother who may also have lived on 107th; I think his name was either Cirino (Charles) or Alfio. Were either of them your grandfather?
LikeLike
Sorry. I miss read your post. Was your mother’s name Teresa, Bettina or Maria Teresa? Those were my grandfathers sisters. If so we are related.
LikeLike
where was stroncone’s pastry shop located.ave and cross streets.
LikeLike
Lou
Those were my grandfather’s sisters. He had a brother Alfio and Cirino all from San Fratello in Sicily. I knew one of their daughters Rosalie (Carroccio) Vieni who lived in NY for awhile and then returned to Aquedolci Sicily which is next to San Fratello. We stayed with her in 1989 and saw her again a few years ago. She died right after we saw her.
I’ve been to San Fratello four times and love it!
I’m fairly CER we are cousins
Paul
LikeLike
I was born and lived on 107th between Third and Lexington Avenues from 1937-1950. I went to school on 106th and graduated from St. Cecilia. Funeral parlor owner, Joseph Cinquemani went to school with my mother (circa 1906-1908). He and his brother were good friends to my parents all their lives. My sisters were married using Cinquemani’s limousines. My parents had their funeral arrangements with them.
My father owned a macaroni store off 110th and 2145 Second Avenue back in the 1920’s (1916-1923). I have many pictures of block party during the WWII.
LikeLike
Was the pastry shop stronconis or Lombardo’s?
LikeLike
Hi Lou,
I don’t remember the name of the pastry shop but will check photos of my grandfather’s store next to the pastry shop. My grandfather was Rocco Catania.
We lived at 161 E106 until 1952. My other grandfather had a latticini on 107th.
My mother was friends with Marie Cinquimani who married “Buddy” Charles LoPiccolo who was a well known drummer for his own band. I was baptized at Saint Cecilia’s.
Let me know if I can help further.
Paul
Paul T. Carroccio
802-379-7089
LikeLike
Is that the cin
LikeLike
Wow great to hear about the dump. I’m jimmy Paolino. we lived at 362 ahun21st st. I never saw a full show at the palace, I always got thrown out. I remember the manager and the matron who used to hit you with her flashlight. I also went to Holy Rosary and remember the cadets. We also were thrown out by that bum moses and his projects. My cousin’s family owned the charkolette on ahun 16 th st. my other cousin mikey frogs lived at 362 in the same building. Jefferson pool lemon ices at 1st ave & ahun20h st, and abeez at Patsy’s. East harlem the good old days. Hope to be at O’Giglio, and the Pleasaant Ave stickbakll game. LOL
LikeLike
Hi all – I found an old photo of the Dump (the Palace) on 2nd Avenue from the 123rd Street corner. And I found the photos of my great-great-grandfather’s shoe shop that was just around the corner from the Palace on 123rd Street. There is a great site called oldnyc.org that has photos from the NY Public Library archives on a map grid. I was never so thrilled as to find the old Aufieri shoe shop so I could show my father.
Angela – I can send you the photos if you’d like to post them. I love this site – it’s really been such a great way for Dad to reconnect with his youth and for us to hear all of his memories and stories.
Also, I just read a great book by Salvatore Mondello called “A Sicilian in East Harlem”. Dr. Mondello passed away in 2006, but had been in my father’s class at Benjaimin Franklin HS (class of ’50), so there were a lot of great memories and stories in the book (even though we are not Sicilian).
LikeLike
Sorry the link doesn’t post – search oldnyc photos online and you’ll get it.
LikeLike
I love to hear from some of the guys who I play football with L0MC and if anybody has some old pictures or clips from the teams championship or playoff games I know some people used to film them.I played with Turkey Skipper Robert Frankie and let’s not forget peepers whale Danny legs and so many more ,great memories great games good times .and me Frankie nuthouse.
LikeLike
does anyone know where stroncone bakery in harlem was located.i might not have the correct spelling.
LikeLike
Skipper is still around, but Joe Peepers passed away a few years ago.
LikeLike
I’am sorry to hear about peepers he had to be one of the fastest Guy I ever seen I remember the crew from across the street from Rosies played football probably with all of them really a bunch of good guys and so was peepers, Stanley, Robert, Frankie whale, good times good memories
LikeLike
Dies anyone know the Carlo family?
LikeLike
Is East 97th Street part of Italian Harlem? Does anyone know the Cinnamo family? Frank Cinnamo was an ice man in the area.
LikeLike
Hi Michele,
Do you mean the Cimmino Family? I have heard of that surname, and in fact, I believe that William Cimmino has visited this site before. You may be able to search for his name in the search box on the left of the page. Good luck with your search!
LikeLike
I’m certain it was the Cennamo/Cinnamo family of which Francesco (Frank) was the head. He worked for the Spano Ice Co. located on 111th St & Park Ave. His wife was Mary (Trombetta). They lived at 165 E 97th Street. Is that located within Italian Harlem?
LikeLike
does anyone know about stroncone’s bakery shop
LikeLike
I don’t believe Italian Harlem extended down to 97th St. I think that was the beginning of German town.
LikeLike
I love the pictures it made me remember back in the days i now live on 118 street between 1 ave and pleasant ave my grandaughter a half Italian
LikeLike
I love the pictures it made me remember back in the days i now live on 118 street between 1 ave and pleasant ave my grandaughter a half Italian i am glad to see how the streets and people really look at that time God Bless
LikeLike
They still have the Italian baseball game with fathers and sons on pleasant ave every summer a memory they have
LikeLike
Angela:
It is Chris, from the East Harlem picture books. I just want to say I love this website, And how is your family doing? All the best and it was an honor meeting you years ago. And I am so glad we talked. Your pictures are still amaizing and everyone talks about the pictures of your family,
LikeLike
Hi Chris,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We are all doing well, thanks for asking. I too enjoyed all our talks, while you were preparing your East Harlem book. I look back on that time with much fondness. Hoping all is well with you. Keep in touch!
Best regards,
Angela
LikeLike
Hello Angela,
My name is Richard Scorzelli, Born and raised in East Harlem. I can remember almost all of what is talked about. I lived in 452 e. ahun 117th. Our team the ARROWS competed in the BOYS CLUB OF AMERICA located on 111th St. between 1st and 2nd Aves. I visited East Harlem about about 5 years ago. Was surprised. Took my daughter to see where I grew up.
The Boys Club I believe kept a lot of us out of trouble. I think that should be noticed. a lot of changes were taking place in that era. I want to only remember the good times. Your site and the stories do that for me.
THANK YOU
LikeLike
Anyone have stories or remembers the PALLADINO family- 126th Street and the river- Tony, Danny, Marie, Gilda, Margie, Rose and Tobia?
Anyone know what the burlesque house was called?
Making a documentary about my father who grew up in East Harlem- must’ve been a magical place.
LikeLike
Hi Sabrina,
The burlesque house was called the “New Gotham” Theatre. It was located on 125th Street, between 3rd and Lexington…closer to 3rd Ave. My dad would sneak in the theatre, when he was around 12, which was circa 1935-36. He told me stories about Margie Hart, one of the ‘top billing” burlesque dancers. He ran errands for her, and would go out to buy her coffee. She loved coffee! Anyway, the theatre was owned by one of the Minsky brothers. It closed down, sometime around 1936, after being raided several times, due to some of the dancers going on stage without a “g-string.” At that time, Fiorella La Guardia was cracking down on crime, and the burlesque shows were a hotbed of criminal activity. 🙂
I hope this helps! If you need a historical consultant for your movie, send me a message!
Best regards,
Angela
LikeLike
Hi, My name is Ed Filardo. I lived on Pleasant Ave between 122nd Street and 123rd Street. I was born there in 1934 and left in 1952. During the late 40s my grandmother and I would go to that theatre. It was called the Tivoli I believe and had Italian plays on Sundays. Families would bring lunch and wine and have meals during intermission. Needless to say, regardless the quality of the play, everyone left happy. Italian East Harlem during those years was a Godsend for me and my family. What a beautiful storehouse of memories it has given me.
LikeLike
Hi There,,I am writing a book and am also looking for anyone who knew my father and his family. The last name is Butrico and he grew on 168th street (i think) My fathers name is Anthony, his parents are Sylvia and Carmine and siblings Charles aka Cookie and Sonny Butrico. i would love any and all information anyone has. i will be visiting New York and that neighborhood this September.
LikeLike
Looking to catch up with anyone who attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel grammar school from 1953 – 1961. The school no longer exists but some great memories there. I lived at 273 Pleasant Avenue (near Jefferson Park) until I left in 1972. Went to Cardinal Hayes H.S. from 1961 – 1965.
Lenny
LikeLike
Lenny, tried to get into Mt. Carmel at 7th grade -after graduating from P.S. 78 they were having race riots at Thom. Jefferson Jr. H.S. (part of . Franklin H.S. in 1945. Since we belonged to Holy Rosary and didn’t contribute to Mt. Carmel I was not admitted – went to St. Cecilia’s on 106th st., Went from there to Hayes in 47,graduated in 51 then to Manhattan College. At Hayes I had Bro. Lucas for physics, Fr. Guido for home room, Fr. Jablonski – discipline, and Fr. Pavis for sports (baseball). I have a few years on you (86) – so I don’t know if they were there when you went. Going from East Harlem cuisine to the peanut butter and jelly crowd at Hayes was always a culture shock each day!!!!
LikeLike
Hi Edward,
As far as I know, the junior high school that was connected to Benjamin Franklin HS, was named James Otis JHS.
Best,
Angela
LikeLike
Opps, yes it was James Otis. Only went there until the race riots broke out – then went to St. Cecilia with the Irish Christian Bros. for 7th and 8th grade. Talk about night and day. Those Brothers were storm troopers. We were hit with a piece of leather they used for repairing the worn our soles of shoes if we did not produce the expected homework! In a way it helped me in Korea! Perhaps that’s the Tom Jeff – Jam Otis mixup! Forgot to do the homewqork every now and then!
LikeLike
Hi Edward,
I just posted a photo in my “Fabulous Familial Faces of East Harlem” page, and there is a woman in that photo, by the name of Frances Filardo. Are you related to her? The photo was taken in 1929. She is the lady to the far left of the photo. It’s a fabulous rooftop photo. When I was told her name, I thought of you. Let me know if she is a relative! You can find the photo on the page that says “Fabulous Familial Faces of East Harlem”-The Vintage Gallery. 🙂 Just scroll down towards the bottom of the page. I just posted it. It’s a group photo with 6 woman, standing on a rooftop, on East 104th Street.
Best regards,
Angela
LikeLike
I was baptized in St. Cecilia’s in 1948
LikeLike
I too went to St. Cecila from first to eighth grades. I too had storm trooper teachers but in my eighth grade they brought in brother Lee, a saint if there ever was one. He started a drama club and had us compete with other schools and he started a scout group. What a change – from the tyrants with their straps of leather.
I have to say I had received a good education from St. Cecilia and for that I am grateful – later to go on to a good high school in Westchester county and college.
LikeLike
My great great great grandparents immigrated to New York from Sicily in the early 20s, the census says they lived at 240 E 112 st, dies anyone have a picture of the building as it would of been in the twenty’s? Thank you,
Rose
LikeLike
Wow our families might have known each other my maternal grandmother lived at 68 East 112th St
Theresa Squillante Buccallo
My dads family lived on East 123rd st
Angelo DeBiase
LikeLike
We always thought Italian Harlem started at ahundred st.
LikeLike
Technically, the boundary started at 96th Street, but for all intents and purposes, the majority of the Italian district started past E. 100th Street.
Note: According to the 1930 Census, there were 5800 Italians living between E. 99th and E. 104th, from 1st Avenue to 3rd Avenue. Next, from East 104th to East 109th Streets, from 1st Avenue, heading west to 3rd Avenue, there were 15,500 Italians living in that zone. Moving North, from East 109th to 114th Street, there were 12,500 Italians living between Pleasant Ave., 1st and 3rd Avenues. And then, from East 114th Street, up to East 119th Street, between Pleasant Avenue, heading west to 3rd Avenue, there were 20,500 Italians living in that zone. Lastly, from East 119th Street, up to around East 125th Street, there were approximately 11,500 Italians living between Pleasant Ave. and 3rd Avenue. If you move West, from 3rd Avenue, up to 5th Avenue, there are thousands more Italians, starting from 91st Street, on the east side, and heading west and North to 5th Avenue and up past E. 125th Street! 🙂 Source: Casa Italiana Educational Bureau of Columbia University. (Leonard Covello was the Executor Director, at that time).
LikeLike
My lived in a tenement at
2nd Ave
121 ST.
The 1950s
He mentioned there were
Pizzeries on 105th ST
A Greek-Orthodox Church is still.there.
LikeLike
My dad was born in Harlem he lived 116 st and second ave
LikeLike
[…] well in advance. Izzy dropped the ball so now Thelma will need to use coins to phone him from the 125th St station. His phone number was Intervale 8062 so Thelma would dial 468(INT)-8062. I wonder how quickly he […]
LikeLike
just came back from harlem after 67 yrs, it brought a tear to my eye .i lived e.118th between 1st/2nd ave . we stopped at Patsy’s for pizza, Jefferson pk, Queen of Angel’s church( my parents got married their) then mount carmel church for mass. the old house just didnt look the same ,new fronts etc. would i go back , yes anyday of the week
LikeLike
What years did you live there. I grew up there from 1947-67
My sister Cookie & Vinny Carlo
313 118th between 1st and 2nd.
LikeLike
I have pictures of kids playing at the PS 80 After School Program. Mr Russo is my Dad who is 91. Where can I send the pictures either digital or 8×10? Thank you.
LikeLike
The year is between 1952 and 1957.
LikeLike
Hi Catherine,
I would be so happy to add your photos to my web album! Email your digitally scanned photos to: italianharlem@gmail.com
I won’t be able to upload low resolution photos, such as “a photo of a photo” If you can scan each photo, that would be most appreciated! I look forward to receiving them!
Thanks,
Angela
LikeLike
My father lived next to joe rao’s social club. The address was 210 east 107th street. In 1931 my father was shot and his brother was killed in the first baby killing known to NYC. I was wondering does anyone know if that building still exists. I can not find out if it it still there
LikeLike
My maternal grandfather owned a macaroni store on 2nd Ave. and 106th nrxt to the pastry.
LikeLike
Jimmy Paolino I lived at 362ahun21st My cousin Mikey frogs Longobardi livrd in the building My cousin Arthur Nigro lived at 263 Pleasant Ave on top of Rao’s My Aunt Ida &uncle Joe Nigro owned the Colonial Tea Room later The Charkolette. Arthur passed away in 2019. Hope there will be a Giglio in August.
LikeLike
By any chance does anyone know the Zinzi family or the family junk shop I think it was located on 123rd street between 2/3rd ave? My grandfather Frank ran it with his dad Andrea, and brothers Sal, Pat and Lou. Just curious if anyone ever knew them, or had any old pics of the shop It would be great to hear any stories. Thanks.
LikeLike
Hi Pete, my name is Ed Filardo, I lived on Pleasant Ave between 122 and 123 Street. Zinzi’s junk yard was on 123 Street near 1st Avenue. As a kid we used to collect rags, metal, and paper and bring it to Zinzi’s junk yard. This was during WWll when metal was scarce and when we were able to collect metal and paper, go to Zinzi;s and get enough money to get into Jefferson pool during the summers of ’42-’45. It cost 11 cents to get in. Most of us kids at the time thought we should have gotten more money for our efforts, but since it allowed us to enjoy the Jefferson Park pool during the summer months, Zinzis was our bank!!!! We knew it as Lou Zinzis junk yard, didn’t know about the other family members – probably Lou was the one that dealt with us kids.
LikeLike
Thank you Ed, I really appreciate you sharing this story! I wish I could snap my fingers and see it all for myself, however your story helps me to in-vision the era and my family back in the day! Much appreciated.
LikeLike
East 96th Street became known as the Rio Grande – separating East Harlem and Yorkville.
Before that, there was no “known” dividing line.
106th Street had a good stickball team. We played them a number of times. I lived on 95th and attended Our Lady of Good Counsel grammar school. We had the Sisters of Charity. They also taught at a school in Italian Harlem. There is a picture on-line of a beautiful statue photographed by one of our girls, Dorothy Fischetti, at a church in your neighborhood. The bozo who posted it did not give the church proper recognition. I will search for it and try to post it here.
There was also a good softball team from “Italian Harlem” in the 96th Street Bar League.
Strange as it may seem, we had a girl from 102nd Street who graduated with our class in 1954. We have located – or did – all but six of those kids – six girls who, supposedly, did not marry at OLGC. One of those girls is Theresa Rose Smith. She lived at 411 E 102 St. Her parents were Pat and Mary (Rehill) Smith. If anyone can help with info concerning Rose, please let me know.
This is a great site. Too bad it is not more active.
Philip W
LikeLike
love this site i grew up on 108 st btwn 2nd and 3rd until 1952 my sister and I went to ST. Ann’s we moved because they were knocking down the tenements for projects I don’t think that street exists anymore was there when “el” came down when I was a kid. great memories
LikeLike