Friday, July 6, 2018

Nicholas Feo, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1940's



This very dapper looking man is Nicholas Feo, born in Williamstown, New Jersey on July 8th, 1906. His parents, Philip and Julia Feo, were Italian immigrants who arrived in the United States in 1901. Not long after his birth, the family moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where Philip worked as a bartender. Nicholas had one sibling, a younger brother named Peter. I wonder if it is one of Peter's children who wrote "Uncle Nick" on the back of this picture?  Nicholas married Philomena "Mamie" Di Carlo in 1940. He died in New Jersey in 1980.

The photographer, Sebastian Faragalli, was also Italian American. He operated his photography studio on Passyunk Ave in the 1930's and 40's.

This photo postcard was found with the picture of Uncle Nick:




Here is a rough translation of the Italian writing:
"Lorella Elena on the right is 16 years. Sitting is Giannina, 18 years. And I, Feo Francesco, am 13 years. ?? 1940. We wish you a good Easter to all. Good Tidings. Greetings to all- Your Cousin Francesco Feo"

Though I couldn't find any record of Francesco, Giannina, or Lorella Elena Feo, I would guess they are Nicholas's cousins writing to him from Italy. The photo appears to have been done by an itinerant or traveling photographer because it was taken outside- you can see the dirt ground and the edge of the backdrop.

If you know who this family may be, let us know in the comments!

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