Roma Hall

Roma Hall, 2017 Mead Street, Racine, Wis.

Racine Journal-News, April 2, 1921

NEW ROMA HALL DEDICATED TODAY

Italian-American Association Now Housed in Fine $25,000 Structure Located on Mead Street; Have Big Program.

TALKS ARE GIVEN BY VISITORS FROM VARIOUS SECTIONS

Roma hall, headquarters for the Italian-American association, located at 2017 Mead street, was dedicated with impressive ceremonies this afternoon at 3 o’clock. The building, which has just been completed, is a commodious structure and replaces a smaller affair on the lot at 2013 Mead street, which the organization has used since its inception about four years ago. The hall represents an investment of $25,000, although the members of the association feel that had they not contracted for the structure three years ago when building material was cheaper, the cost would have been much greater.

The dedication of the hall today marked another step in the progress of the association. It started with a membership of seven and today 115 are enrolled. With the larger quarters the organization will now strive for a membership of from 400 to 500.

A special program was rendered this afternoon which started at 2 o’clock in the auditorium located on the upper floor of the hall. Previous to that hour a special car brought representatives from the Italian society in Kenosha together with the Italian band of 30 pieces from that city to assist in the celebration.

Band Provides Music.

At 1 o’clock the band was taken to the corner of High street and Douglas avenue to accompany to the hall the Italian residents residing in that part of the city. The band then journeyed to the headquarters of the Italian Benefit society further south on Mead street. Members of that organization paraded on several of the streets in Lakeside and wound up at Roma hall to participate in the festivities.

Several addresses were included in the program, those participating being President Antonio Pagliaro of the association, Italian Counsel Angelo Cerminara, of Milwaukee; the Rev. Peter Enrietto, pastor of Sacred Heart church on Northwestern avenue; Tony Wells, representing the Italian Benefit society; Gregoria Glanta, John Lieglar, Chief Baker, Sheriff James Mayor Armstrong and Mayor Joachim, of Kenosha. The band rendered a concert and following the program dancing was enjoyed. A notable feature of the afternoon was the dedication of the standard of the organization by the Rev. Enrietto for which the god father was Mayor Armstrong and the god mother was Miss Louise Demarco.

Officers of Association.

The officers of the organization are: President, Antonio Pagliaro; vice president, Joe Salerno; secretary-treasurer, Emil Salerno; directors, B. Testa, Francisco Valnta and Francisco Basile. These officers are the charter members of the association. The objects of the association are to provide sick and death benefits for the members, recreation and social features. As the association progresses, it contemplates securing an instructor to teach its members the principles and laws of this country with the object in view of making them good American citizens.

The building is of white brick and stone. The upper floor is devoted to an auditorium with a seating capacity, including a gallery, of 400. A stage occupies the eastern end of the hall. It is 16 feet wide and 10 feet deep. Scenery is now being completed for it at a cost of $500. The basement contains the president’s office, a library and card room, a refreshment room and kitchen. Bath rooms are now being completed. The length of the entire structure is 74 feet and it is 32 feet wide.

Stock Company Organized.

Members of the association purchased stock at $10 per share and with the money thus obtained the building was constructed. It was obligatory for each one on joining the organization to subscribe for one or more shares, but now that the entire cost has been met this obligation has been removed and Italian men may unite with the association on payment of the fee and 50 cents per month dues.

Early this morning workmen completed the task of decorating the auditorium for the dedication. United States flags with those of Italy were used in great profusion and streamers were also used to good advantage. The sidewalls of the auditorium have been artistically finished with permanent decorations of reproductions of famous Italian paintings and portraits of celebrated Italian men.

Racine Journal-News, April 2, 1921 NEW ROMA HALL DEDICATED TODAY Italian-American Association Now Housed in Fine $25,000 Structure Located on Mead Street; Have Big Program. TALKS ARE GIVEN BY VISITORS FROM VARIOUS SECTIONS Roma hall, headquarters for the Italian-American association, located at 2017 Mead street, was dedicated with impressive ceremonies this afternoon at 3 o’clock. The building, which has just been completed, is a commodious structure and replaces a smaller affair on the lot at 2013 Mead street, which the organization has used since its inception about four years ago. The hall represents an investment of $25,000, although the members of the association feel that had they not contracted for the structure three years ago when building material was cheaper, the cost would have been much greater. The dedication of the hall today marked another step in the progress of the association. It started with a membership of seven and today 115 are enrolled. With the larger quarters the organization will now strive for a membership of from 400 to 500. A special program was rendered this afternoon which started at 2 o’clock in the auditorium located on the upper floor of the hall. Previous to that hour a special car brought representatives from the Italian society in Kenosha together with the Italian band of 30 pieces from that city to assist in the celebration. Band Provides Music. At 1 o’clock the band was taken to the corner of High street and Douglas avenue to accompany to the hall the Italian residents residing in that part of the city. The band then journeyed to the headquarters of the Italian Benefit society further south on Mead street. Members of that organization paraded on several of the streets in Lakeside and wound up at Roma hall to participate in the festivities. Several addresses were included in the program, those participating being President Antonio Pagliaro of the association, Italian Counsel Angelo Cerminara, of Milwaukee; the Rev. Peter Enrietto, pastor of Sacred Heart church on Northwestern avenue; Tony Wells, representing the Italian Benefit society; Gregoria Glanta, John Lieglar, Chief Baker, Sheriff James Mayor Armstrong and Mayor Joachim, of Kenosha. The band rendered a concert and following the program dancing was enjoyed. A notable feature of the afternoon was the dedication of the standard of the organization by the Rev. Enrietto for which the god father was Mayor Armstrong and the god mother was Miss Louise Demarco. Officers of Association. The officers of the organization are: President, Antonio Pagliaro; vice president, Joe Salerno; secretary-treasurer, Emil Salerno; directors, B. Testa, Francisco Valnta and Francisco Basile. These officers are the charter members of the association. The objects of the association are to provide sick and death benefits for the members, recreation and social features. As the association progresses, it contemplates securing an instructor to teach its members the principles and laws of this country with the object in view of making them good American citizens. The building is of white brick and stone. The upper floor is devoted to an auditorium with a seating capacity, including a gallery, of 400. A stage occupies the eastern end of the hall. It is 16 feet wide and 10 feet deep. Scenery is now being completed for it at a cost of $500. The basement contains the president’s office, a library and card room, a refreshment room and kitchen. Bath rooms are now being completed. The length of the entire structure is 74 feet and it is 32 feet wide. Stock Company Organized. Members of the association purchased stock at $10 per share and with the money thus obtained the building was constructed. It was obligatory for each one on joining the organization to subscribe for one or more shares, but now that the entire cost has been met this obligation has been removed and Italian men may unite with the association on payment of the fee and 50 cents per month dues. Early this morning workmen completed the task of decorating the auditorium for the dedication. United States flags with those of Italy were used in great profusion and streamers were also used to good advantage. The sidewalls of the auditorium have been artistically finished with permanent decorations of reproductions of famous Italian paintings and portraits of celebrated Italian men.
Racine Journal-News, April 2, 1921
Racine Journal-News, July 5, 1921. Note some familiar names, even if Aiello is misspelled. **ITALIAN CLUB OPENS 'MEMBERSHIP DRIVE'** Members of the Italian society held a large meeting in Roma hall yesterday morning. It was for a twofold purpose, namely, to take part in the big parade and to put on a drive for additional members. At present there are 50 members and an effort will be made to increase the number to 800. It is also planned to organize a brass band of at least 0 pieces. In the parade over 400 took part and the second prize went to them, and of which they are proud. When the next big parade takes place the society hopes to appear in attractive uniforms with their own band in the lead. The Italian Genosha band escorted the organization yesterday and the prominent Italians at the head of the procession included: Sam Iliello, Rosa DeMark, A. Orena and Tony Wallis.
Racine Journal-News, July 5, 1921. Note some familiar names, even if Aiello is misspelled.
Racine Journal-News, August 13, 1921 **Cairo-De Cesare.** A large wedding was solemnized in the Sacred Heart church, Northwestern avenue, this morning at 9 o'clock, when the Rev. Father Enrietto united in marriage Miss Marie De Cesare, daughter of Joseph De Cesare, of Kenosha, and Antonio Cairo, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Cairo, 2335 Mead street, Racine. The bride wore a hand beaded gown of white georgette crepe over satin, and a veil of embroidered net with orange blossoms. She carried a shower bouquet of roses and was given in marriage by her father. Miss Rose Muts, wearing white organdie and carrying a bouquet of pink roses, was the maid of honor, and Susan and Deline De Cesare, cousins of the bride, as flower girls, wore white organdie and carried Ophelia roses and greens. Sam Pulica was best man. About 100 guests were received at Roma hall, 2017 Mead street, after the wedding, and a dinner was served. This evening a party of about 250 will be entertained at the hall. The Victoria Novelty orchestra is furnishing the music. After Aug. 15, the bride and groom will be at home to their friends at 2335 Mead street. Mr. Cairo is employed by the Case Motor company. Guests at the wedding included a large party from Kenosha: Joseph De Cesare, Mr. and Mrs. Frank De Cesare and daughter; Mr. and Mrs. Eugene De Cesare and daughter; Mr. and Mrs. Carl De Cesare, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Fumo, Mrs. Josephine Fumo, Frank Tenuta, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Tenuta and family, Eugene Fumo, John Ruffolo, Jasper Ruffolo, and Ralph and John Gentile; also several from Chicago: Mr. and Mrs. Carl Fumo and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Fumo and family, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Fumo and family, and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Greco and family.
Racine Journal-News, August 13, 1921. Cairo-De Cesare Wedding.
Racine Journal-News, January 28, 1924. Italians-Americans Form Business Club. **ITALIANS-AMERICANS FORM BUSINESS CLUB** **ORGANIZATION WITH 50 CHARTER MEMBERS HOLDS FIRST MEETING AND BANQUET AT ROMA HALL SUNDAY.** The Italian-American Business Men’s association with a charter membership of 50 was auspiciously launched at a banquet at Roma hall on Sunday. Men attending the initial meeting represented every branch of business in the city and plan to make their organization an active one in the civic life of the community. Angelo Cerminari, Italian consul at Milwaukee, and Mayor Armstrong were present to offer suggestions and assist in organizing the club. Temporary officers were elected as follows: Joseph Domanik, president; Carl LaBrasco, vice president; Nick Vitalo, financial secretary; Frank Marino, secretary. The officers will decide on the next meeting date at which permanent officers will be named. Mutual aid and civic welfare will be the two-fold purpose of the new club. A fine chicken and spaghetti dinner was served at Sunday’s get-together with Sam Aellio serving as toastmaster. The first speaker was Consul Angelo Cerminari, guest of honor, who spoke along general lines, saying that it had always been his aim to bring the Italian-Americans into closer harmony. He heartily approved of a local society. The mayor was the principal speaker. He said that business men in all lines were organizing and said he approved of the new club. Vincent Musagarac delivered a splendid oration on “Italy”. All rose at its conclusion while the orchestra played the Italian national anthem. Other speakers on the program were: Rhiney Riegelman, president of the Retail Merchants’ association; C. S. McDonald, a representative of the Baumann Coal company; Pat Hilt, the Rev. Domanick Raffone, Frank Marino and Constantine Vallone.
Racine Journal-News, January 28, 1924. Italians-Americans Form Business Club.
Racine Journal-News, June 8, 1925. Two Fire Calls. [Editor: oddly, this is the only entry for Roma hall in 1925.] The fire department made two runs today. The first was in the middle of the forenoon when it extinguished a fire in a pile of paper and other refuse in the rear of Roma hall, 2017 Mead street. An old ice box standing close to the blaze was destroyed.
Racine Journal-News, June 8, 1925. Two Fire Calls. [Editor: oddly, this is the only entry for Roma hall in 1925.]
Racine Journal-News, November 20, 1926. Ricchio-Telesio wedding. **Transcription of the Ricchio-Telesio Wedding Announcement** **THE ALTAR** **Ricchio-Telesio.** Several hundred persons attended the wedding performed at 9 o’clock this morning at Sacred Heart church by the Rev. Peter Enrietto, uniting in marriage Adeline Ricchio and Thomas Telesio. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gabriele Ricchio, 1905 Racine street, and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Telesio, 2109 Howe street. Gowned in white georgette trimmed with pearls and rhinestones and a cap shape veil trimmed with pearls, rhinestones and orange blossoms, the bride was given in marriage by her father. She carried a bouquet of white roses and sweet peas. Miss Mary Ricchio, the maid of honor, wore yellow crepe de chine, bead trimmed, and carried yellow roses. Rose Costorleri, the bridesmaid, wore orange georgette trimmed with beads, and carried roses and pompons. The flower girls, Louise Ricchio and Catherine Totera, both wore white crepe de chine dresses, and carried baskets of roses and sweet peas. Attending the groom as best man was Joe Costorleri. Rose Telesio in blue georgette, beaded, Lena Ricchio in greogrette, and Rose Totera in pink georgette, were also members of the bridal party. They carried bouquet of roses tied with ribbons corresponding to their dresses. Oscar Ricchio, Louis Delucs and Alfonso Serpe were ushers. Dinner for 100 guests was served at the home of the groom following the ceremony, and 400 guests were present at the reception held in Roma hall, where music was furnished by a five piece orchestra under the direction of Charles Carrelli. The couple will reside at 1840 Center street. Bruno and Louis Ricchio of Chicago attended the ceremony.
Racine Journal-News, November 20, 1926. Ricchio-Telesio wedding.
Racine Journal-News, May 24, 1927. Plan Bazaar. Roma hall, 2021 Mead street, will be the scene of a bazaar sponsored by the Holy Trinity Slovak parish on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, May 28, 29 and 30, afternoon and evening. Dances will also be held in connection with the bazaar, and excellent music is promised. Refreshments will be served throughout the day. The public is invited to attend.
Racine Journal-News, May 24, 1927. Plan Bazaar.
Racine Journal-News, August 4, 1928. Aiello-Perrello wedding. Aiello-Perrella.St. Lucy's chapel in Lakeside was the scene of one of the season's most elaborate weddings, performed at 9 o'clock this morning by the Rev. Fr. Norbert, uniting in marriage Edith Aiello, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Salvatore Aiello, 1008 Twenty-first street, and Eugene Perrella, 2109 Howe street. A large number of relatives and friends attended the ceremony, which was followed by a dinner at the bride's home for 50 guests, and a reception at Roma hall for 400.To the strains of the wedding march played by Miss B. Gales, the bride marched to the altar, where she was given away by her father. She wore a white silk crepe gown trimmed with Spanish lace and a cap shaped veil trimmed with pearls and lace, and carried a bouquet of roses and lilies of the valley.Maid of honor, Christina Ricchio, wore a pink taffeta lace trimmed dress, while the bridesmaid, Rose Telesio, was attired in an old rose georgette frock. Both carried roses. Others attending the bride were Rose Totera, Carmella Telesio, and Mary Aiello, who wore blue taffeta, peach georgette, and pea green georgette gowns respectively, and carried roses. All wore rhinestone head bands.The flower girl, Helen Telesio, wore a pink dress and carried a basket of roses. Albert Molinaro, the ring bearer, wore a black velvet suit and carried a white satin pillow. Oscar Ricchio attended the bridegroom as best man, and other attendants were Tony Spizziri, Louis Aiello, and Frank DeRango.The couple will reside at 1008 Twenty-first street. Mr. Perrella is employed at the Nash Motor company. Out of town guests at the wedding were Mr. and Mrs. Aversa and family, Frank and Louis Aiello, Mr. and Mrs. Savaglio and family, Mr. and Mrs. Chiepetti, all of Kenosha; Sam Mandarino of Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Mandarino and daughter of Michigan.
Racine Journal-News, August 4, 1928. Aiello-Perrello wedding.
Racine Journal-News, August 29, 1929. **COMMUNISTS HOLD ORDERLY MEETING** **Session in Roma Hall Proceeds With No Need for Police Service.** Police say that communists, who had threatened to hold another street meeting here Saturday, held their session in Roma hall, Racine street, but that there was no disorder. Talks were given by several speakers in foreign languages. Chief H. C. Baker said he understood a meeting was held, but that he had no interest in it as long as it was not held on a public street, where it would have interfered with traffic. Two previous attempts to stage street meetings here by members of the union branch of the communist league were halted by police. A week ago Saturday a street riot followed the attempt to hold a session in Monument Square. Thirteen communists were arrested at that time. They were charged with disorderly conduct and found guilty by a jury in the municipal court. Judge Burgess ordered them to pay fines of $30 and costs each, but they appealed to the circuit court. All were released on $100 bonds except Phil Sawyer, their alleged leader, who was given a straight sentence of 30 days in the county jail and whose bonds were fixed in the sum of $200.
Racine Journal-News, August 29, 1929. Communists Hold Orderly Meeting.
Racine Journal-News, February 13, 1930. **Transcription of the newspaper article:** **BURGLARS ENTER TWO PLACES HERE** **Roma Hall, Mead Street, and Thompson Gas Station Raided.** **TAKE CASH REGISTER** Burglars visited two places here last night, “jimmying” their way in through rear windows. Roma hall, 2019 Mead street, was entered some time before 11:30 o’clock and a cash register, valued at $400, $31 worth of cigars and cigarettes and a gents’ watch were taken. Thompson’s Gasoline alley, 1011 Sixth street, was also entered and the combination on the office safe was broken off, but nothing was taken. Officer Brown discovered the “job” at 3:35 this morning. It is thought that his approach frightened the burglars away before they could get at the contents in the safe. Officer Brown found a side window “jimmyed” and an investigation showed the office had been entered. He called the police station and a squad of officers was rushed to the place. Mr. Thompson was notified and made a check up which showed nothing of value had been taken. William Greco reported the Roma hall case at 11:30. He said he and Ralph Boergi left the hall about 7 o’clock and returned at 11:30. Entrance was gained through a rear window. The cash register, practically new, was of an expensive type. It is thought that the burglars who knocked the knobs off a new safe in the West Racine Fuel & Supply company’s office Wednesday night are responsible for entering the Thompson Gasoline alley. Police say the burglars are either amateurs or second rate members of their craft as their work is not of a high order. Detectives Lutter and Mauer have rounded up five men, several of them young married men, on a charge of breaking into the Phil Combeau clothing store, 1350 State street. The officers say they have recovered suits, overcoats and shoes which were stolen from the store. The Combeau store was burglarized some time Wednesday night, after it had been visited by a disastrous fire the previous night in which one man was suffocated by smoke. Detectives will make arrests in the case some time today, they say.
Racine Journal-News, February 13, 1930. Burglars Enter Two Places Here.
Racine Journal-News, November 12, 1931. The Women's society of the Italian Baptist church will sponsor a social on Friday evening at Roma hall. The Rev. Mr. Solimene will be the speaker. Following a musical program, a social hour will be enjoyed. All are welcome.
Racine Journal-News, November 12, 1931. The Women’s society of the Italian Baptist church will sponsor a social on Friday evening at Roma hall.
Racine Journal Times, October 19, 1933. Couple Is Entertained on Silver Wedding Day. A large group of friends and relatives entertained Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Kasola on Saturday, in honor of their silver wedding day. A reception for 150 was held at Roma hall, where music and dancing were enjoyed. Miss Emma Harinek entertained with vocal selections, and Mr. Peter Prochaska was toastmaster. Midnight supper was served. The guests of honor received many congratulations and a purse of silver.
Racine Journal Times, October 19, 1933. Couple Is Entertained on Silver Wedding Day.
Racine Journal Times, October 29, 1934. On Friday night, at a meeting of a colored men's organization in Roma hall on Mead street, republican candidates, including Judson Staplekamp for congress, will give talks.
Racine Journal Times, October 29, 1934. On Friday night …
Racine Journal Times, August 21, 1936. Italian-American Club Remodels Clubhouse. The Italian-American Harmony league has taken over the management of Roma hall on Mead street, vacant for several years, and has remodeled and redecorated the structure. It can now be used for receptions, dances, weddings and other similar affairs. The work has been under the general chairmanship of William Greco, assisted by Lorenzo Fumo, and Ralph Aiello. They have been at this task for two months and will soon announce the opening date. The Harmony club will use the remodeled structure for all its future meetings and entertainments.
Racine Journal Times, August 21, 1936. Italian-American Club Remodels Clubhouse.
Racine Journal Times, September 14, 1936. On Program at Roma Hall Opening. Speakers at the program given in connection with the formal opening of Roma hall by the Italian-American Harmony league Sunday included, left to right: Standing, Tony Wells, chairman of the committee in charge; Atty. Anthony DeMark, master of ceremonies; Dr. Joseph Albino. Seated, E. E. Lewis, chairman of the town of Mt. Pleasant; Mayor William J. Swoboda, and William Greco, president of the league.
Racine Journal Times, September 14, 1936. On Program at Roma Hall Opening.
Racine Journal Times, January 18, 1937. Italian Group Installs New Officers. New officers of the Italian American Harmony league, installed at Roma hall Sunday afternoon, are shown above. They are, reading from left to right: Front, Louis DeLuca, Tom Aiello, William B. Greco, Lawrance Fumo, and Arthur Greco. Rear, Silvio Zingo, Dominic Wells, Joseph Guarasco, and James Leonard.(Source: Journal-Times Photo, from The Journal-Times, January 18, 1937)
Racine Journal Times, January 18, 1937. Italian Group Installs New Officers.
Racine Journal Times, December 2, 1937. C. I. O. Clerks Local 184 1st Annual Dance Tomorrow Night Friday, Dec. 3rd Music by Ted Rich and his orchestra at New Roma Hall 2017 Mead St.
Racine Journal Times, December 2, 1937. C. I. O. Clerks Local 184 1st Annual Dance.
Racine Journal Times, March 5, 1938. A joint meeting of all units of the UAW Foundry Workers Local 234 will be held at Roma hall Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Racine Journal Times, March 5, 1938. A joint meeting of all units of the UAW Foundry Workers Local 234 will be held at Roma hall Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Racine Journal Times, June 28, 1938. Anthony Wells, 56, Dies; Active in Many Affairs. Transcription of the obituary from The Journal Times, Racine, Wisconsin, Tuesday, June 28, 1938:ANTHONY WELLS, 56, DIES; ACTIVE IN MANY AFFAIRSAnthony Wells, 56, of 2145 Mead street, one of Racine’s leading Italian-American citizens, died suddenly at his home of a heart attack at 3 p.m. Monday.Mr. Wells, who operated a grocery and meat market in Lakeside for many years, was active in civic and church affairs, a leader in Italian-American organizations and influential in politics, although he never sought public office.Funeral services will be held at Roma hall at 8:30 a.m. Thursday and at St. Lucy’s Catholic church at 9 a.m. Rev. Sylvester Van Berkel will officiate. Burial will be in Holy Cross cemetery.The body, which is at the Strouf funeral home, will be removed Wednesday morning to Roma hall, 2017 Mead street, where friends may view it Wednesday afternoon and evening and until services Thursday morning.Survivors are three sons, Henry, Dominick and Eugene; one daughter, Mrs. Louis C. DeMark; his mother, Mrs. Carmela Wells; three brothers, Joseph, James and Dominick and one grandson, Rayno Wells.Born in Italy.Mr. Wells was born in Marano, Italy, Jan. 2, 1882, and came to the United States at the age of 14. After four years in Pittsburgh he came to Racine where he resided up to his death.He was appointed general foreman of the M. E. R. & L. in 1904, a position he held for 18 years until he resigned to establish his meat and grocery business.Mr. Wells was one of a committee of Italian-American citizens instrumental in making Columbus day a legal state holiday in 1926.Headed Big Lodge 10 Years.Previous to that, due to his activity a number of Italian clubs were welded into a stronger organization, Sons of Italy, of which he was president for 10 years. At the time of organization in 1919, the club built Roma hall.At the time of his death Mr. Wells was state organizer for the Sons of Italy and had made plans for a second lodge in Racine as well as lodges in other cities in Wisconsin.Mr. Wells was a former member of the Eagles and of the Association of Commerce and was an active member of the Moose, the Italian-American alliance, Italian American Harmony league, and Lakeshore Improvement club.He was organizer and chairman of the Lakeside branch of the Boy Scouts for a number of years and a special deputy sheriff in Lakeside for 34 years.Helped Church and School.When members of St. Lucy’s church constructed a new church building in 1933, Mr. Wells was chairman of the building committee. He also helped organize and was the first president of St. Lucy’s social club and directing head of the former St. Lucy’s band. In 1922 Mr. Wells was chairman of a committee to raise funds to build the Lakeside district school.In politics, although he was not affiliated with any party, Mr. Wells played an influential part. He was one of the leaders in a successful fight recently against the incorporation of Lakeside as a village.Mr. Wells was interested in urging all Italians to become citizens of the United States and always was present in circuit court when examinations for citizenship were held. When not in his store, he devoted his time to aiding his fellow Italian-Americans in their difficulties, economic or otherwise.(Accompanying photo caption:) ANTHONY WELLS Italian-American leader.
Racine Journal Times, June 28, 1938. Anthony Wells, 56, Dies; Active in Many Affairs.