Celebrating Heritage: Long Branch Honors the Legacy of Italian Immigrants with Vibrant Art Exhibit

LONG BRANCH, NJ – October 17 marked a heartfelt celebration at the Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, where the community gathered for the opening reception of The History of Italians in Long Branch , an art exhibition honoring the legacy of Italian immigrants who helped shape the city's history. The exhibit offers a vibrant tribute to the resilience, dedication, and cultural influence of those who made Long Branch their home in the early 20th century.

The evening was filled with the rich sounds of live music, courtesy of the Metropolitan Festival Band and crooner Zach Alexander, and featured delicious Italian fare generously provided by Johnny Piancone. The warm, welcoming atmosphere felt like a family reunion, fitting for an event that reflects the collective efforts of local Italian families and organizations who contributed to the exhibit’s creation.

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“It’s been like one big family reunion, collaborating with so many Italian families and clubs in Long Branch,” said Arts Director Margaret Fischer. “Long Branch, much like a well-cooked Sunday sauce, is a true melting pot of cultures.” Fischer underscored the central role of Italian immigrants in shaping the city’s identity, as they sought new beginnings along the Atlantic coast.

The exhibition is organized into several distinct sections—each one thoughtfully curated to evoke the spirit of the past. A tailor shop, a barber shop, a business district, and an "old-world" section are featured prominently, each filled with artifacts and family heirlooms that tell the stories of Italian families and their contributions to the community. The craftsmanship of these early immigrants, whether in shoemaking, tailoring, gardening, or other trades, is highlighted as a testament to their skills and dedication, which not only sustained their families but also enriched the growing city. Among the featured artists contributing to the exhibition are Arianna Cafolla, Mady Dietrich, Kathyleen Lo Pinto Vignolini, and Carla Valentino, whose works honor the creativity and tenacity of the Italian community.

JoAnne Devito, a descendant of the Valentino family—who operated Valentino’s Market, a butcher shop in Long Branch after immigrating from Italy—was deeply moved by the event. “This really touches my heart,” she shared. The business section of the exhibit, which displayed items from the family’s butcher shop, brought back vivid memories for Devito. “It reminds me of being in the store,” she said.

Roberto Ferrogino, from the Amerigo Vespucci Society of Long Branch, spoke about the struggles and triumphs of Italians in the city, reflecting on the discrimination they faced and the strides they have made since. “It’s important that we remember our past and honor our culture in the present,” he said.

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Mayor John Pallone also attended the event and highlighted the broader significance of the exhibition. “Italian immigrants brought their skills and craftsmanship to Long Branch, helping shape the identity of our region. This exhibit, in celebration of Italian Heritage Month, reminds us of the critical role that Italian traditions—and so many other cultures—have played in building our community."

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