Small Italian Businesses in Ashtabula
Saloons: Saloons quickly became the places where the Italian men would go to socialize after their shifts were done at the docks or railroad yard. Saloons were bars that typically had recreational activities such as billiards, pool, and duckpin bowling. Some of the Italian saloons in town also had bocce. The Marconi Cafe, run by Angelo Morell was a popular Saloon near the docks; it was popular among the Columbus St. community. The Ferrando Saloon run by Alexander and his son Jay was a popular saloon in the west Ave. community. Here pool and bocce could be played.
Stores: The local grocery stores were often small mom and pop shops that were more connected to the smaller regional or family communities in Ashtabula. There were also many of them scattered throughout the town. These stores were where the older men in the community would go to play pool or play Italian card games. These are also old-world ingredients or dishes could be purchased. Most Italian immigrants grew their own fruits and vegetables in personal gardens, so stores would be where the extra produce would be sold. The stores quickly became more than just businesses but rather places of socialization. Here meetings would be set up with potential employers. This is where the news would be shared and connections would be made. The DiMare Store was mentioned by name in two of my interviews. It was a central location for the Italian community and was right on Columbus St. This store also sold meat, something that would have been a rare among the migrants old world diets. The De Gennaro Store also sold ice cream and gelato. Fabio Barone also owned a grocery store and was one of the first in the community since 1900. George Paglia had a fruit produce and confections store.
Craftsmen Shops: There were the smaller local businesses such as barber shops, tailor parlors, shoemakers, and even one law office. These shops would have kept the traditions of the old world alive with these certain skills. They also provided the community with a sense familiarity with Italian made shoes or clothing.
Italian barber shops run by Guy Dominico and Ralph Grant. These were important places for socialization and to get the news both local and from back in Italy.
Batalini & Cervone was a tailor shop near Main St, where gents clothing was made. Morell & Son was located on Bridge St. The whole family worked in this shop. Angelo's wife, Virginia was also a dressmaker here.
Several Italian shoemakers in the Ashtabula area. One was Peter Bernando whose shop was located on Bridge St.