Fratellanza Society Home Page

Fratellanza Society Home Page

Keeping Italian Culture Alive!!

The Fratellanza is the oldest Italian American organization in the United States. The Fratellanza Society was organized on November 11, 1866 and was incorporated on December 6, 1866 as a fraternal and benevolent society under the Societá Unione e Fratellanza Italiana (Italian Fraternal Union). Click here to see a photo of the house where the first Fratellanza Society meetings were held.

The Primary objective was and continues to be, to create an organization that will promote unity between Italians and their adopted country. A unity which meant the fusing of all Italian-Americans into one compact body devoted to the interest of patriotism, charity, and brotherly love.

A business meeting is conducted on the first Wednesday of each month. We conduct annual events such as the annual banquet, and the member picnic. We also have many other special events (Cardinal baseball outings etc.) chaired by ambitious members. The group also participates in Italian community events ranging from local festivals to the Columbus Day parade.

The initial and current purpose of the Fratellanza is the promotion of the general welfare of all members in the tradition of the Italian American community. Any male, eighteen years or older, may apply for membership. The Fratellanza strives to keep alive the Italian roots and heritage of the founders, however membership is open to all, regardless of ethnic background.

Members are encouraged to be very active. There are many committees within the Fratellanza and participation by members is of the utmost importance to our success.

Regular meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month at Johnny Gitto's Restaurant at 7:00pm.

Congratulations to our 2007 award winners. Click the link below to see the winners!

Current Fratellanza Officers

President - John DeBellis

First Vice President - Daniel Biondo

Second Vice President - Jeff Saunchegraw

Corresponding Secretary - Bernie Garvels Jr.

Asst. Corresponding Secretary - Jack Tocco

Treasurer - Scott Sundhausen

Asst. Treasurer - Ray Garvels

Financial Secretary - Paul Gruendhauser

Asst. Financial Secretary - Antonino Lombardo