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Sicilian Women Immigration and Community in Monterey, California: 1915-1999

Andy Cole

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Published in Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women Immigration And Community In Monterey California 1915 99 (Statue Of Liberty Ellis Island)

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Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women, Immigration, and Community in Monterey, California, 1915-99 (Statue of Liberty Ellis Island)

by Carol Lynn McKibben

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1582 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	159 pages

The story of Sicilian women immigration to Monterey, California, is a testament to the resilience, determination, and cultural preservation of these women. Beginning in the early 20th century, these women left their homeland to embark on a new life in a foreign land. They faced numerous challenges, but they also made significant contributions to their new community, helping to establish a vibrant Italian-American culture in Monterey.

The Journey to Monterey

The Sicilian women who immigrated to Monterey came from a variety of backgrounds. Many were from rural villages, while others came from the bustling city of Palermo. They traveled to the United States with their husbands, fathers, or brothers, who were seeking work in the fishing industry. The journey was often long and difficult, and many women arrived in Monterey with little more than the clothes on their backs.

Sicilian Women Arriving In Monterey, California Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women Immigration And Community In Monterey California 1915 99 (Statue Of Liberty Ellis Island)

Life in Monterey

Life in Monterey was not easy for Sicilian women. They often faced discrimination and prejudice from the local community. They also had to contend with the challenges of raising a family in a new and unfamiliar environment. Despite these challenges, these women persevered and made valuable contributions to their community.

Many Sicilian women worked in the fishing industry. They worked alongside their husbands and brothers, sorting and packing fish. They also worked in canneries, where they processed fish and other seafood. Their work helped to support their families and contribute to the local economy.

Sicilian Women Working In A Fish Cannery In Monterey, California Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women Immigration And Community In Monterey California 1915 99 (Statue Of Liberty Ellis Island) — Sicilian women working in a fish cannery in Monterey, California, circa 1930.

In addition to their work in the fishing industry, Sicilian women also played an important role in maintaining their cultural heritage. They cooked traditional Sicilian dishes, celebrated religious holidays, and passed on their language and customs to their children. They also established their own organizations, such as the Italian Catholic Federation and the Order Sons of Italy in America, which provided a sense of community and support.

Sicilian Women Celebrating A Religious Holiday In Monterey, California Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women Immigration And Community In Monterey California 1915 99 (Statue Of Liberty Ellis Island)

A Legacy of Resilience

The Sicilian women who immigrated to Monterey, California, left a lasting legacy of resilience, determination, and cultural preservation. They faced numerous challenges, but they persevered and made significant contributions to their community. Their story is an inspiration to all who strive to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and their families.

The history of Sicilian women immigration to Monterey, California, is a complex and fascinating one. These women left their homeland to embark on a new life in a foreign land, and they faced numerous challenges along the way. However, they also made significant contributions to their community, helping to establish a vibrant Italian-American culture in Monterey. Their story is an inspiration to all who strive to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and their families.

References

Giordano, R. (2003). Sicilian women in Monterey: An oral history. Charleston, SC: Arcadia Publishing.
Grimaldi, J. J. (2004). From Italy to Monterey: The story of Sicilian immigrants in California. New York: Fordham University Press.
Spude, R. (2006). The Italian-American community of Monterey, California: A historical perspective. Monterey, CA: Monterey History and Art Association.

Beyond Cannery Row: Sicilian Women, Immigration, and Community in Monterey, California, 1915-99 (Statue of Liberty Ellis Island)

by Carol Lynn McKibben

4.2 out of 5