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In the late 1880's, three brothers left Sommocolonia to make
their fortune. In those days there were more than 600 people
living in Sommocolonia. The only connection with the outside
world was the old Roman mule track and people were often born
and died without ever leaving Sommocolonia.. The three brothers
were Bonafede, Sabato and Ferrucio Moscardini.
They first tried their luck in Baltimore, America for three
years. With the money they earned they bought land and houses
in Sommocolonia where Bonafede and Alfredo Moscardini still reside.
They then returned to Europe and worked their way across France
and England to end up in Glasgow. Here they sold religious statuettes
or figurines made from plaster. They were reasonably prosperous,
set up an ice-cream business, bought a horse and cart and became
part of a thriving Italian community in Glasgow.
Then tragedy struck. One day, in 1895, Ferrucio was out with
the horse and cart and the horse got a stone in its shoe. While
he was trying to fix the situation, the horse reared and kicked
him in the head - fatally wounding him. We have the diary of
Bonafede who records the utter despair of the two brothers. So
much so that they sold up and returned to Sommocolonia.
The experiences that they gained were passed to their children.
Bonafede had six of which four of whom emigrated and Sabatino
had three of whom one travelled to UK.
This week the descendants of these two brothers are meeting
in Sommocolonia for a grand reunion. Around 100 Moscardinis will
assemble for Mass in San Freddiano in Sommocolonia followed by
a meal in La Cantina at Ghivizzano.
The families come from Bonafede's two sons Federigo and Guiseppe
and Sabatino's son Victor all living in the UK. Bonafede's eldest
daughter, Speranza, emigrated to Boston, Massachussets and her
grandchildren and great grandchildren will be present. They will
link up with those fortunate enough to have always remained in
this beautiful country.
Further information can be obtained
from Alfredo Moscadini on 'alfredo.moscardini@sunderland.ac.uk'. |
