User:John.TroinoFrom The Peopling of New York City
Staten Island is composed of people from many different ethnic backgrounds, but the Italian people more than any other ethnic group have defined Staten Island. As of 2008, 34.8% of the people on Staten Island were of Italian descent. Richmond County (Staten Island) has a higher percentage of Italian Americans than any other county in the United States. An Italian named Christopher Columbus, was credited with the European discovery of America. Columbus’ discovery would change the entire world because his arrival touched off an explosion of interest in America. Columbus paved the way for the Italian culture to be transplanted, grow and thrive in America. Many years later Columbus’ fellow Italians would have a similar influence on Staten Island. Columbus’ descendants are responsible for the Italian flavor that resonates throughout Staten Island, or should I say “Columbus Island.”
Why did Italians decide to settle on Staten Island?
Italian Contributions To Staten IslandThe Italian culture has had a tremendous impact on Staten Island. The most famous contribution to Staten Island by the Italians is of course food! You can find many exquisite Italian restaurants throughout Staten Island. The most popular Italian dish by far is pizza. When you are hungry on a hot summer day there are two places you must visit. First, enjoy the pizza of Denino’s. Then walk across the street to relish in the world’s greatest ice at Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices. These places offer some of the best Italian food on the island and have become staples of Staten Island. Italians have had a major impact on the arts of Staten Island. Snug Harbor has become a center for Italian artists. Construction recently began on an $8,000,000 “Museo Italia,” for the main hall of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. This center will become a showcase for Italian Art. Italians have also shaped the architecture of Staten Island. Italian architect Eugene DeRosa designed one of the most famous buildings on Staten Island. He designed the famous St. George Theatre. Italians brought their music and dance styles to the island and made donations to Shakespeare companies on the island. Italians on Staten Island take pride in their heritage. This pride led to the establishment of an Italian Center For Migration Studies on Todt Hill. It has also led to the establishment of Italian social clubs. These clubs include the Italian Club of Staten Island Foundation, Inc. and the American Committee on Italian Migration. Both of these clubs provide vital help for those in need on Staten Island. They run food drives and provide scholarships.There are many famous Italian Americans from Staten Island. Alyssa Milano grew up in Great Kills. She played opposite Tony Danza in Who’s the Boss? Frank Lombardi, a former New Springville resident, was an actor on As the World Turns, The Guiding Light, and All My Children. He was the head writer for the show The Nanny. Joseph Berardi, a Huguenot resident, was a famous bowling champion. He went on to win a total of 13 PBA titles. World famous interior designer Mario Buatta was born in West Brighton. Musician Frank LaRocka, also from West Brighton, went on to play with Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams and John Waite. Former New York Mets pitcher John Franco calls Todt Hill home. Actor Robert Loggia, of New Dorp, was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Jagged Edge. Italian culture is prevalent throughout Staten Island and a significant factor is shaping its character.
ReferencesWebsites:
1) Steinmeyer, Henry George, 1886- Staten Island, 1524-1898. Staten Island, N.Y. : Staten Island Historical Society, 1950 2) Sachs, Charles L. Made on Staten Island : agriculture, industry, and suburban living in the city Richmondtown, Staten Island, N.Y. : Staten Island Historical Society, 1988
|