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Historian’s Note: These four portraits of Italian immigrants were composed from primary sources that are listed under each entry below. They represent the diversity of the places in Pennsylvania that Italians settled and thrived. While reading these portraits, think about how the place of settlement may have affected their opportunities and experience in Pennsylvania. Pittston is in the heart of the anthracite coal region in the north central area of the state. Reading is a mid-size town in the Pennsylvania German heartland that at the turn of the twentieth century was becoming a garment and textile manufacturing center. Germantown and Chestnut Hill are two of the many city neighborhoods in Philadelphia that drew Italians because of their industrial, manufacturing, and building opportunities.

Cologero Giarrtano and Carmella Micciche`, Pittston, PA

Saverio Spadafora and Maria Pullano, Reading, PA (No Photo)

Francesco Iannuzzi and Anna Maria Biancamano, Germantown Neighborhood, Philadelphia, PA

Emilio Lorenzon and Maria Brun, Chestnut Hill Neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA