What, Where, and When in Old Kenilworth – Summer Time Italian Feast

Submitted by Walter E. Boright, Ed. D.

Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s, an Italian-American organization known as the Society D’Maria our Lady of Mount Carmel Society was a vibrant part of Kenilworth life. Its roots dated back to the 1930’s when local resident Stephen Rodoquino, an Italian immigrant himself, began providing help and arranging assistance to other Italian immigrant families moving here. The society had a strong religious commitment and sought to preserve Italian culture.

Mr. Rodoquino, a self-made businessman, owned a building that still stands at 24 N. 20th St. It was the Society’s home base with many Societal dinners on site and events planned from there. The building had many uses over the decades, serving as a post office in the 1940’s and most famously for decades as the Bella Napoli Restaurant. Now Riberto’s Italian Seafood.

The Society held street festivals on N. 20th St in the 1950’s and later on Washington Ave. into the 1960’s. The street was closed off to traffic and many booths of attractions and traditional Italian foods were offered. The day’s events began with a High Mass at St. Theresa’s Church followed with a parade and religious float. The aroma of sausage sandwiches and zeppole filled the air. Luscious pastries pleased many palates. Large, friendly crowds moved along the street and sidewalks. A band filled the air with happy Italian music. Kiddie rides mounted on trucks added to the festivities. There were games and singing. Evening fireworks were held on Washington Ave. at the edge of Jackson Pond where the Brearley H.S. parking lot now stands. They were fun-filled days for local residents and fun-seekers from far and wide.

Research provided by Walter E. Boright, Ed. D., historian, and Historic Signs, Inc. Persons with inquiries about this or other aspects of Kenilworth history may contact Dr. Boright at drbori@aol.com or 908-256-5200.

(above) Children aboard a festival float, c. 1960s during one of Society D’Maria our Lady of Mount Carmel Society’s Summer Italian Feast. Source: Historic Signs archives.