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American Mafia Timeline
Part 2. 1900-1919

The Mafia network emerges in U.S., establishes hierarchy, eliminates competitors. Significant Mafia activity is seen in the major American cities of the Northeast and Midwest. The Secret Service scores an important victory over the leading Mafia figures in New York City. (The buttons below may be used to jump ahead to a certain era, to earlier or later timeline pages or to the main website homepage.)

Back to Part 1 1905 1910 1915 Ahead to Part 3 Home
1900 Nov 15
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Nicholas Terranova
Secret Service agents raid the home of Giuseppe Morello, 207 East 107th Street, finding nine revolvers under the bed pillows of Morello and his half-brother Nicholas Terranova. Agents recover black hand letters that Morello's wife stuffed into the diaper of her young child.
Flynn, William J., "Why the leader of New York Mafia fled to Italy," Washington Post, Feb. 5, 1922, p. 64.
1901 Feb 2
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Rosaria DiCarlo (later Sarah Bonasera) was born to Giuseppe and Vincenza DiCarlo in Buffalo.
Sarah Bonasera Death Certificate.
1901 Feb 21
Chicago, IL, US
Joseph Morici
Mafia boss of Chicago's Little Sicily, Morici is arrested in connection with the murder of Neapolitan crime boss Salvatore DiGiovanni. He later admits to killing DiGiovanni in self-defense and is acquitted.
"Italian slain, plot suspected," Chicago Daily Tribune 02-22-01 p1.
1901 Jul 23
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Vaccarelli, alias Paul Kelly, of 315 East 25th Street, is arrested during a prizefight at a blacksmith shop at 204 Hester Street. He is charged with being a principal in a prizefight and with breaking the nose of Leopold Sieno. The blacksmith, Patrick Lafey, was charged with assault and with permitted a prizefight at his shop. Four other men were arrested. As police arrived, a riot ensued.
"Policemen fight a mob," New York Tribune, July 24, 1901, p. 1."
1901 Sep 5
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Salvatora Pieri (later Elsie DiCarlo) is born to Giovanni, 28, and Ignazia, 19, (Ciresi) Pieri of Buffalo.
Birth Certificate.
1901 Sep 30
New York, NY, US
Vito Cascio Ferro
Cascio Ferro arrives in New York aboard La Champagne from Havre, France. At this time, his New York contacts appear to be the Morello family and its allies.
Source
1901
Chicago, IL, US
Mariano Zagone
Mafia boss of Chicago's Near North Side, Zagone is arrested on suspicion of coin counterfeiting. He is discharged for lack of evidence.
"Black Hand victim shot," Chicago Daily Tribune, 05-08-09 p1.
1901
Shreveport, LA, US
Joseph Piranio, Carlo T. Piranio
A future crime boss of Dallas and brother of Carlo Piranio, Joseph Piranio arrives in the U.S.
"Joseph Piranio, 25-year resident, succumbs at 78," Dallas Morning News, Oct. 28, 1956, p. 15.
1902 Feb 3
Port Allen, LA, US
Joseph Civello
Future Dallas crime boss Joseph Francis Civello is born in Port Allen, Louisiana.
FBI memo from SAC Dallas, file 92-2824, March 1, 1966.
1902 Feb 6
Vallelunga, Caltanissetta, Sicily
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Rosaria DiCarlo is born to Giuseppe and Vincenza DiCarlo in Vallelunga, Sicily.
DiCarlo INS file p 111, 117; Birth Certificate.
1902 Feb 26
Calabria, Italy
Albert Anastasia
Birth of future New York crime boss Albert Anastasia.
Source
1902 May 21
New York, NY, US
Stella Frauto, Giuseppe Clemente, Giuseppe Romano, Vito Cascio Ferro
Stella Frauto and her son Antonio are arrested for participating in a coin counterfeiting ring based in Hackensack. Also arrested are Giuseppe Clemente, Giuseppe Romano and Vito Cascio Ferro. All were locked up in Ludlow Street Jail. Frauto is said to be the widow of a man who died while serving an eight-year prison term.
"Women coiners captured in raid on gang and plant," New York Evening World, May 22, 1902, p. 3; "Catch six counterfeiters," New York Tribune, May 23, 1902, p. 6.
1902 Jun 11
New Orleans, LA, US
Salvatore Luciano, Vincenzo Vetura
Unidentified gangsters burst into a grocery and wine room at Basin and Poydras Streets. They shoot and stab Salvatore Luciano to death. Vetura also is shot to death, possibly by Salvatore's brother Louis Luciano, who believed Vetura was in league with the gangsters. The event is believed to be part of a feud between the Neapolitan family of Antonio Luciano and the Sicilian Calamia organization.
"Italian vendetta is begun," San Francisco Call, June 13, 1902, p. 1; "Murders by hired bravos," New York Sun, Aug. 23, 1903, p. 3.
1902 Jul 22
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Ignazio Lupo, Giuseppe Catania
New York's Ignazio Lupo is believed responsible for the knifing death of Joe 'the Grocer' Catania.
Source
1902 Jul 23
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Giuseppe Catania
Boys preparing for a swim found the remains of "Joe the Grocer" Catania, 167 Columbia St., Brooklyn, within a sack near the bay at the foot of 73rd St. in Bay Ridge Brooklyn. Catania's head was cut almost off his body. His clothes were found in a second sack.
"Boys find a man's body sewn in a sack," New York Times 07-24-1902 p. 1; "Band of assassins murdered Catania," Brooklyn Daily Eagle 07-24-1902 p. 1-2.
1902 Jul 23
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joe Catania, Ignazio Lupo, Giuseppe Morello
Catania's corpse is discovered packed in a potato sack linked with floor mats at 73rd Street at the bay. His throat had been cut and some bones broken (presumably after the killing in order to fit the corpse into the sack). Some boys heading into the bay for an early evening swim, discover the sack in some tall grass. Lupo and Morello are believed to have participated in the killing. Catania, 40, was a Brooklyn green grocer who allegedly worked with Lupo-Morello organization on the import of counterfeit American currency manufactured in Sicily. Catania is believed to have violated the secrecy of the group.
Source
1902 Aug 6
New York, NY, US
Dutch Schultz
Arthur Flegenheimer (future Dutch Schultz) is born at 1690 Second Avenue, New York City.
Source
1902 Aug 24
Palermo Palermo
Carlo Gambino
Future New York crime boss Carlo Gambino is born in Palermo, Sicily, to Tommasso and Felice Castellano Gambino.
Source
1902 Sep 18
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
D'Andrea and his wife are arrested and charged with manufacturing counterfeit U.S. dimes. The arrest takes place at their home, 2125 Archer Avenue. Also arrested was Pasquale Cartabellata and Vincent Notara.
"Raid flat, get bad coin," Chicago Daily Tribune 09-19-02 p11.
1902 Sep 29
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
The Paul Kelly Club (gang), the Young Whyos, the Cherry Hill Club, the West Side Tigers, the Five Points Gang and the East Side Social Club engaged in an evening-long gang battle on Centre Street near Broome. Police arrested 15 gangsters. The rest scattered into Chinatown.
"Toughs riot on East Side," New York Evening World, Sept. 30, 1902.
1902 Oct 16
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Vaccarelli, alias Paul Kelly, is one of 46 men arrested and charged with fraudulent voter registration. Kelly is believed to be leader of the Hoops Gang with a headquarters at 194 Mulberry Street. Another gang, the Chatham Club of Doyers Street, was also arrested.
"Election frauds frustrated," New York Tribune, Oct. 17, 1902, p. 1.
1902
Poland Grodno, Poland
Meyer Lansky
Birth. (a.k.a. Maier Sucholjansky.)
Source
1902
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
Convicted of counterfeiting. D'Andrea is considered an influential figure in the Unione Siciliana.
Source
1902
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo is regarded as the leader of Manhattan Mafiosi. He is actually an enforcer for Giuseppe Morello, Black Hand extortionist and owner of a cafe at 220 Elizabeth Street. Morello's half-brothers Ciro, Vincenzo and Nicholas Terranova, are considered top lieutenants.
Source
1903 Feb 3
Lobdell, LA, US
Joseph Civello
Future Dallas crime boss Civello is born in rural West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana. He is the second child born to Philip and Catherine DiBenedetto Civello.
Source
1903 Apr 6
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
Former priest D'Andrea, 31, is arraigned on charges he possessed 425 counterfeit dimes and passed four of them. He pleads guilty to the charges. Similar charges against his wife are dropped.
Illinois State Penitentiary records.
1903 Apr 9
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Paul Kelly is arrested for shooting (twice) Dutch Louis Melling, who he wrongly believes insulted a woman. The shooting occurred at 2 a.m. Melling, struck in the left arm and superficially across his forehead, was taklen to Gouverneur Hospital.
"Avenger shot the wrong man," New York Evening World, April 9, 1903.
1903 Apr 14
New York, NY, US
Benedetto Madonia
Body of Benedetto Madonia is found in a barrel at Manhattan's 11th Street and Avenue D.
Source
1903 Apr 14
New York, NY, US
Benedetto Madonia, Ignazio Lupo, Giuseppe Morello
Madonia's remains are found at 11th Street and Avenue D. The corpse, bearing more than a dozen stab wounds, is mostly buried in a barrel full of sawdust. Madonia's genitals had been cut from his body and stuffed into his mouth. His throat had been cut from ear to ear. This is generally the full treatment given by Mafiosi attempting to make an example of a squealer. In this case, it appears that Madonia was punished so severely for having a brother-in-law, Giuseppe DiPrimo, who was a police informant while serving time for a counterfeiting conviction.
Source
1903 Apr 17
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Gangs at Cherry Hill neighborhood (centered on Cherry Street and Catherine Street): Paul Kelly leads an Italian gang based at the Paul Kelly Association, second floor over a Mulberry Street saloon, north of Broome. Kelly recently released from Sing Sing, where he served 11 months for election fraud. Five Points Gang also Italian, Cherry Hill Boys are Irish. Drop the Limits gang is all nationalities, led by "Japanese," "Dutch Louis" and "Amio" Until recently the Five Points and the Kellys were deadly enemies, but they have amalgamated. The Kellys charge protection payments from local businesses.
"Shops close in fear of gangs," New York Evening World, April 18, 1903, p. 8.
1903 Apr 18
New York, NY, US
Benedetto Madonia
New York police and Secret Service agents tell the press that a clue to the identity of the Barrel Murder victim soon might be found in New Orleans.
Source
1903 Apr 20
New York, NY, US
Benedetto Madonia
The identity of New York's barrel murder victim is revealed. He is Benedetto Madonia, an out-of-work stone mason from Buffalo, NY. His address is 47 Trenton Avenue. Morello counterfeiting gang member Giuseppe DePrimo is Madonia's brother-in-law.
"Solve barrel mystery," New York Tribune, April 21, 1903, p. 1.
1903 Apr 24
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
Convicted counterfeiter D'Andrea is sentenced to 13 months in prison.
Illinois State Penitentiary records.
1903 Apr 25
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
Convicted in federal court, U.S. Northern District of Illinois, D'Andrea is sent to Joliet prison for counterfeiting. His sentence is 13 months. He is assigned prisoner number 8292.
Illinois State Penitentiary records; "Bad money gang raided," Chicago Daily Tribune 05-21-03 p5
1903 Apr
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Morello and Lupo were arrested in connection with the Barrel Murder.
Source
1903 May 1
New York, NY, US
Joseph Catania
Arrives in U.S. aboard the S.S. Trojan Prince (leaving Palermo April 15): Francesca LaScala, 23; son Calogero Catania, 2; son Giuseppe Catania, 6 mos; to meet Antonio Catania, 351 E. 104th Street, NYC.
Manifest of S.S. Trojan Prince, Ellis Island records.
1903 May 9
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Giovanni Zarcone, Giuseppe Morello, Benedetto Madonia
Police detectives arrest Giovanni Zarcone at his home, 145 Hudson Avenue in Brooklyn, and charge him with participating in the murder of Benedetto Madonia. Zarcone was owner of the No. 16 Stanton Street butcher shop where the Morello gang met and where Madonia was last seen alive.
"Another arrest in barrel murder case," New York Times, May 9, 1903, p. 6; "Seven now held in barrel case," New York Evening World, May 9, 1903, p. 2.
1903 May 9
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Benedetto Madonia
New York coroner releases Morello and five others after deciding there is no evidence to directly connect them to the barrel murder of Benedetto Madonia.
"Seven now held in barrel case," New York Evening World, May 9, 1903, p. 2.
1903 May 14
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Paul Kelly wrestles with Joe Bernstein, the "Ghetto Champion," at Miner's Bowery Theater. The match is held before the Paul Kelly Association - 500 members strong - the Monk Eastman crowd and the Ike Bernstein "Guerrillas." Bernstein is disqualified for punching Kelly.
"Wrestling notes," New York Evening World, May 15, 1903, p. 12; "Big crowd will see Bernstein wrestle," New York Evening World, May 14, 1903, p. 12.
1903 May 16
Pittston, PA, US
Stefano LaTorre
Montedoro Mafioso LaTorre arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Sicilian Prince and heads to Pittston PA, where his father Giuseppe lives.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Sicilian Prince, arrived New York on May 16, 1903.
1903 May 20
Chicago, IL, US
Joseph Nicolosi, Anthony D'Andrea
An undercover agent P.G. Drautzberg (using the alias of Joe Bassini) aids the Secret Service in the breakup of a Chicago counterfeiting gang. Joseph Nicolosi, in-law of Mariano Zagone, is charged. Nicolosi is believed to have worked with Anthony D'Andrea.
"Bad money gang raided," Chicago Daily Tribune, 05-21-03 p5.
1903 May 25
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Six members of the Paul Kelly Association, "known as one of the toughest organizations in the Cherry Hill District," are arraigned in Yorktown Court for trying to clean out the restaurant of John Leistner, 285 Bowery. Leistner opened the restaurant two weeks ago and refused demands for protection money. The Kelly gang promised they would put him out of business. They ate there without paying, broke windows, etc. Early on May 25, twenty members of the gang surrounded the restaurant. They told several women inside to leave. The gang then entered and proceeded to take everything of value from the building. As Leistner attempted to reach the pistol in his counter, he was stabbed over the right eye. He fired the weapon, and the gangsters dispersed.
"Cherry Hill mob raids a saloon," New York Evening World, May 25, 1903, p. 2.
1903 Jul 12
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Vincenza Pieri was born in Buffalo to Giovanni and Ignazia Pieri.
Source
1903 Sep 12
New York, NY, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera arrives in New York City aboard the S.S. Citta di Milano, heading for Pittston to meet up with brother in law Angelo Speranza.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Citta di Milano arrived NYC Sept. 12, 1903.
1903 Sep 12
Carbondale, PA, US
Frank Mazzagari, Luigi Conoir, John Costa, Joseph Colandri
Mazzagari and Conoir are arrested by Carbondale police on extortion charges. A committee of local Italian laborers states that the two men had forced them to contribute to the Mafia criminal society. Mazzagari is said to be the local ringleader. He is middle aged and arrived in Carbondale about a year earlier. The men are believed to work as agents for a New York City Mafioso named Costa. The local police are being aided by Joseph Colandri, a former police chief from Italy.
"Mafia in coal regions," Tyrone PA Daily Herald, Sept. 12, 1903, p. 1; "Death threats for Italians," New York Sun, Sept. 13, 1903, p. 5.
1903 Sep 13
PA, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera settles in Pennsylvania.
Naturalization document, Feb. 19, 1919, U.S. Court for Middle District of Pennsylvania.
1903 Sep 14
Carbondale, PA, US
Frank Mazzagari, Luigi Conoir
None of the original Italian complainants comes forward for the arraignement of Mazzagari and Conoir. Conoir is set free. Mazzagari is held on a charge of obtaining money under false pretenses.
"Mafia scare dies out," Baltimore Sun, Sept. 14, 1903, p. 2.
1903 Sep 16
New York, NY, US
Monk Eastman
Eastman and his wife, held on suspicion after recent gang rioting, are released after an inquiry by Coroner Scholer.
"Stand by Eastman gang," New York Tribune, Sept. 17, 1903, p. 14.
1903 Sep 22
Naples, Campania, Italy
Joseph Valachi
Joseph Valachi is born in Naples, Italy.
Source
1903 Nov 25
New York, NY, US
Paolo Vaccarelli
Paul Kelly is arrested in the afternoon while engaged in a fistfight at Sixth Street and the Bowery with liquor dealer George Bloss, 301 East 90th Street. Bloss is severely beaten. Kelly gives police a false name, Frank Clark, but police recognize him. He is too drunk to be arraigned. Arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 26.
"Paul Kelly, gang leader, in prison," New York Evening World, Nov. 25, 1903, p. 2.
1903 Dec 23
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo, Salvatrice Terranova
Married in New York.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1903
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
D'Andrea (counterfeiting) is released as his sentence expires. D'Andrea's record is later cleared by the U.S. President.
Source
1903
New York, NY, US
Joe Petrosino, Ignazio Lupo, Giuseppe Morello, Vito Cascio Ferro
Lt. Petrosino and other officers arrest Lupo, Morello and six others for the barrel murder of Benedetto Madonia. None are convicted. Some sources trace the murder to Vito Cascio Ferro, who fled the country back to Sicily at about the time of the police investigation. Madonia's brother-in-law Giuseppe DiPrimo was believed to have informed on gang activities to the authorities. Investigation into the Madonia murder revealed pieces of the Morello Mob's counterfeiting operation
Source
1903
New York, NY, US
Annuziato Cappiello
Cappiello leads a group of Black Hand extortionists in the city.
New York Herald.
1904 Jan 14
Carbondale, PA, US
Joseph Colandri
Carbondale resident Colandri is mortally wounded by four Italian men wielding razors. Colandri, a former Italian police chief, had been aiding Carbondale police in their work against the Mafia.
"Mafia victim dying," New York Times, Jan. 16, 1904, p. 2; "Mafia's vengeance wreaked by Ruffians," Washington Times, Jan. 17, 1904, p. 9.
1904 Mar 5
Chicago, IL, US
Anthony D'Andrea
D'Andrea is released from Joliet Prison, where he served a little more than a year of his 13-month sentence."
Illinois State Penitentiary records.
1904 Mar 17
Pittson, PA, US
Charles Bufalino
Montedoro Mafioso Charles (Calogero) Bufalino arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Nord America and travels to Pittston PA, where his cousin Salvatore Bufalino has lived since 1901.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Nord America, arrived New York March 17, 1904.
1904 Apr 2
Sicily Vallelunga, Sicily
Salvatore DiCarlo
Salvatore "Samuel" DiCarlo, son of Giuseppe and Vincenza DiCarlo, is born.
Sam DiCarlo Social Security death record; DiCarlo INS file p 111, 117; Birth Certificate.
1904 Apr 14
New York, NY, US
Monk Eastman
Jury finds Monk Eastman guilty of first degree assault.
State of New York v. William Delaney alias Monk Eastman, Court of General Sessions, New York, begun April 12, 1904.
1904 May 15
New York, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Benedetto Palmeri reports his arrival in the U.S. on this date.
Palmeri Petition for Naturalization.
1904 Jul 4
Chicago, IL, US
Johnny Roselli
Roselli claims this is his birthdate in Chicago.
Dodge, Harold F., "John Roselli," FBI memo, Feb. 10, 1958.
1904 Jul 15
New York, NY, US
Loretta Mistretta, Rosaria Mistretta
The Mistretta sisters arrive in New York City aboard the S.S. Algeria from Palermo. Loretta is 23. Rosaria is 20.
Ellis Island records.
1904 Jul 17
New York, NY, US
James Cagney
Cagney is born in New York City.
Cagney FBI file; Who's Who in America, 1950-51, vol 26.
1904 Oct 30
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Adelina Pieri is born in Buffalo to Giovanni and Ignazia Pieri.
Source
1904 Nov 28
Carbondale, PA, US
Santo Carressi, Joseph Tolerico, Frank Ferressi
As they attempt to aid in the arrest of Black Hand extortionist Carressi, vigilance committee members Tolerico and Ferressi are fired upon and killed by Carressi men. (Tolerico also known as Flarano. Ferressi also known as Ferrizo.)
"Battle in street," Washington Post, Nov. 29, 1904, p. 1; "Fatal street battle with blackmail band," New York Times, Nov. 29, 1904.
1904 Nov
Carbondale, PA, US
Santo Carressi
Carressi robs six homes in a single night.
"The battle for life against the silent Mafia," Washington Times, Oct. 8, 1905, p. Mag 3.
1904 Dec 4
Pittsburgh, PA, US
Peter Scalise
Sicilian immigrant Peter Scalise, 20, is awakened in his Pittsburgh apartment by three men, who then attempt to stab him to death. Relatives rush to Scalise's aid. He later tells police he has been fleeing from the Boston Camorra for years.
Source
1904 Dec 18
Carbondale, PA, US
John Costa, Frank Mazurka, Pasquale Cerretti
Carbondale police arrest two suspected Mafiosi. John Costa, found under the bed of a Carbondale friend, is believed to serve as a messenger/courier between the Carbondale Mafia and a larger Mafia organization in New York City. He is charged with shooting Cerretti, a former Mafiosi who threatened to provide evidence against the organization. Mazurka (also known as Frank Muncolo) is charged with forcing tribute payments from Carmen Pietro (Salvatore Pettnotte) under threats that he would cut out Pietro's eyes and burn down his house.
"Make Mafia arrests," New York Times, Dec. 19, 1904; "Alleged Mafia leaders," Washington Post, Dec. 19, 1904, p. 2; "Mafia leaders arrested," Tyrone PA Daily Herald, Dec. 19, 1904, p. 1; "Hiding under the bed," Altoona PA Mirror, Dec. 19, 1904, p. 6.

1905

Return

1905 Jan 9
Old Forge, PA, US
Vincenzo Laposi
Police arrest Black Hander Vincenzo Laposi in Old Forge, south of Scranton. Laposi is found to be in possession of Mafia credentials from New York City recommending him to the Mafia societies in Old Forge and Carbondale. The credentials originated from 42 Mott Street.
"Had Mafia credentials," New York Sun, Jan. 10, 1905, p. 1.
1905 Jan 18
Castellammare del Golfo, Trapani, Sicily
Joseph Bonanno
Giuseppe 'Joe' Bonanno is born into an established Mafia family in Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily.
Source
1905 Jan
Carbondale, PA, US
Father Antonio Cerutti
Italian residents of Carbondale form the St. Joseph Protective Association to guard against the Mafia. The organization, dedicated to the memories of the late Tolerico/Flanaro and Ferressi/Ferrizo, spreads to Old Forge and Edgerton under the guidance of Father Antonio Cerutti of the Church of Mount Carmel, Carbondale.
"Crusade against the Mafia," New York Sun, Jan. 22, 1905, p. C1; "The battle for life against the silent Mafia," Washington Times, Oct. 8, 1905, p. Mag 3.
1905 Jan
Carbondale, PA, US
Santo Carressi, Frank Mazurka, John Cambo
Convicted of Mafia extortion, Carressi is sentenced to five years and nine months in prison. Mazurka and Cambo are sentenced to four years and six months.
"The battle for life against the silent Mafia," Washington Times, Oct. 8, 1905, p. Mag 3.
1905 Feb 2
Carbondale, PA, US
Frank Mazurka
Frank Mazurka/Muncolo pleads guilty to robbery by menace and is sentenced to four years and nine months in prison.
"Convicted of extortion," Washington Post, Feb. 4, 1905.
1905 Feb 3
Carbondale, PA, US
Joseph Cogliandro
Charged with complicity in Mafia extortion, Cogliandro makes a full confession and reveals secrets of the Mafia organization.
"Convicted of extortion," Washington Post, Feb. 4, 1905.
1905 Aug 9
Castellammare del Golfo, Trapani, Sicily
Joseph Barbara
Birth of Joseph Barbara.
Source
1905 Sep 14
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Giuseppe DiCarlo, 29, merchant, of Palermo, arrives in New York City aboard the S.S. Lombardia of the Florio Line. His destination is the home of brother-in-law Pasquale Ernea, 66 Oliver St., New York."
DiCarlo INS file p 60.
1905 Oct 24
Browntown, PA, US
Tomasso Petto
While hiding out from authorities, Tomasso Petto is shot to death in Browntown, PA.
Source
1905 Oct 24
Browntown, PA, US
Giuseppe DiPrimo, Tomasso Petto
A DiPrimo ally apparently catches up with Tomaso Petto, who was believed to have had a role in the Benedetto Madonia barrel murder. (Petto was found to have a pawn ticket for Madonia's watch when he was arrested for the murder.) Petto had moved to the Wilkesbarre, Pa., area and changed his name to Luciano Parrino. Petto is murdered at his home.
Source
1905 Oct
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DiPrimo
DiPrimo is released from prison. He has sworn to avenge the "barrel murder" of his brother-in-law Benedetto Madonia (1903).
Source
1905 Nov 4
Salemi, Trapani, Sicily
Gaspare Messina
Future New England crime boss Gaspare Messina marries Francesca Riggio in Salemi, Sicily.
Gaspare Messina naturalization petition, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, 167233, April 4, 1930.
1905 Nov 25
New York, NY, US
Gaspare Messina
Gaspare Messina, 26, of Salemi and his wife Francesca, 25, arrive in New York harbor aboard the S.S. Citta da Napoli. They are heading to Brooklyn to meet Messina cousin Francesco Accardi of 715 Flushing Ave.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Citta da Napoli, arrived NYC Nov. 25, 1905; Bureau of Naturalization Certificate of Arrival, 2-39510, March 7, 1930.
1905 Nov 25
Carbondale, PA, US
Judge H.M. Edwards
Judge Edwards, who recently sentenced two Mafiosi to long prison terms, receives a death threat from the Mafia.
"Judge threatened by Mafia," Washington Post, Nov. 29, 1905, p. B1; "Black Hand menaces a judge," New York Times, Nov. 29, 1905.
1905 Dec 24
Pittston, PA, US
Charles Rizzo, Joseph Rizzo
Black Hand extortionists are believed responsible for the dynamite bombing of the Rizzo home.
"Black Hand on trial," Frederick MD News, April 23, 1907, p. 3.
1905
Castellammare del Golfo, Trapani, Sicily
Salvatore Sabella
Sabella, just 14, murders his boss. The victim, who was training Sabella in the butcher's art (perhaps a little too well), is believed to have been repeatedly violent with his apprentice.
Source
1905
New York, NY, US
Joseph Petrosino, Tony Strolle
Petrosino arrests Neapolitan Strolle and succeeds in having him deported.
Source
1905
US-S Dallas, TX, US
Carlo Piranio
Earliest possible time for Piranio's move from Shreveport LA to Dallas TX.
Source
1906 Jan 1
New York, NY, US
Cassandro Bonasera
Cassandro Bonasera, 8, arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Madonna from Naples. He was born in Vallelunga, Sicily.
Ellis Island records.
1906 Jan 14
New York, NY, US
Rosario Bufalino
Future northeast PA crime boss Bufalino arrives in the U.S. for the first time, sailing into New York harbor aboard the S.S. Brasile. Rosario, his mother and two siblings head to Elizabeth Street in New York City.
Passenger manifest of the S.S. Brasile, arrived New York Jan. 14, 1906.
1906 Jan 18
Scranton, PA, US
Antonio Fazio
An attempt is made to blow up the home of Antonio Fazio. He had refused Mafia demands for tribute payments.
"To destroy Black Hand," Baltimore Sun, Jan. 22, 1906, p. 5.
1906 Jan 21
Scranton, PA, US
Father Antonio Cerutti
Father Cerruti holds a meeting of his anti-Mafia St. Joseph's society at St. Lucia's Catholic Church in Scranton.
"To resist Black Hand, Pennsylvanians organize," Washington Times, Jan. 22, 1906, p. 1.
1906 Feb 28
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Benjamin Siegel
Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, future ally of Charlie Luciano is born in Brooklyn.
Source
1906 Mar 7
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo, John Bozzufi
John Bozzuffi, a young kidnap victim who escaped from his captors, identifies Ignazio Lupo as one of the men who kept him at a house on 59th Street. Lupo is arrested. Bail is set at $1,000, and Lupo is committed to the Tombs prison.
Fort Wayne (IN) News, 03-08-1906.
1906 May 6
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Giovanni Pieri is born in Buffalo to Giovanni Sr. and Ignazia Pieri.
Social Security Death Index.
1906 May 23
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo, Joseph DiCarlo, Salvatore DiCarlo
Vincenza Grasso (traveling under maiden name - she was already married to Giuseppe DiCarlo), 33, of Vallelunga, arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Indiana from Naples. Joseph DiCarlo, 6, Francesco DiCarlo, 7, Rosaria (Sarah) 4, and Salvatore, 1, travel with her. Their destination is Giuseppe DiCarlo's home, 66 Oliver St., New York.
Ellis Island records, INS report dated 06-21-67; DiCarlo INS file p 47.
1906 May 23
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Giuseppe DiCarlo resides at 66 Oliver St. New York City (perhaps Brooklyn).
DiCarlo INS file p 47.
1906 Jun 30
Pittston, PA, US
Santo Volpe
Montedoro, Sicily, Mafia leader Santo Volpe arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Republic and heads to Pittston. Volpe's passage is paid by Stefano LaTorre of Pittston.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Republic, arrived New York June 30, 1906.
1906 Sep 7
New York, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Benedetto Palmeri, 28, arrives in U.S. aboard the S.S. Lombardia from Palermo. He settles in New York City.
Ellis Island records.
1906 Nov 14
New York, NY, US
Girolamo Mondini
Mondini, one of the men arrested in connection with the Barrel Murder, is shot to death at 305 E. 106th St. Two others associated with the Barrel Murder were killed earlier.
"Getting them one by one," Stevens Point WI Daily Journal, 06-14-1909 p. 3.
1906 Nov 20
Buffalo, NY, US
Domenico Bellisimo
A bomb explodes the home and butcher shop of Domenico Bellissimo, 140 Canal St. Bellissimo had received threatening Black Hand letters demanding payment.
Vogel, America's Crossroads, p. 267; Buffalo Daily Courier 11-21-06.
1906 Nov 22
Campania, Italy
Joe Adonis
Birth of Joe 'Adonis' Doto in a village near Naples, Italy.
Source
1906
Philadelphia, PA, US
Nicola Gentile
Gentile is initiated into the Philadelphia Mafia.
Source
1907 Jan 20
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Under the alias of Salvatore Saracena, Palermo is arrested by Joseph Petrosino and charged with Black Hand extortion. He is discharged by Judge Finn of Police Court.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1907 Feb 15
Pittston, PA, US
Santo Volpe, Stefano LaTorre, Charles Bufalino
Volpe, LaTorre, Bufalino and about 20 other Italian residents of the Pittston area are arrested by the Pennsylvania State Police and charged with conspiracy, extortion, attempted murder, dynamiting, and other offenses.
"Round up Black Hand," Connellsville Daily Courier, Feb. 15, 1907, p. 2; Mayo, Katherine, Justice to All: The Story of the Pennsylvania State Police, New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1917, p. 115.
1907 Feb 22
New York, NY, US
Natale Evola
Future New York crime boss Evola is born in New York City.
Source
1907 Mar 7
Buffalo, NY, US
Nicola Vario, Bruno Cefoli
Trial begins in extortion case against Nicola Vario. Vario allegedly attempted to extort money from Bruno Cefoli using a Black Hand threat.
Buffalo Daily Courier 03-08-07.
1907 Mar 13
Buffalo, NY, US
Nicola Vario, Bruno Cefoli
Judge Taylor sentences Nicola Vario to one year in prison for attempted extortion of Cefoli - maximum possible sentence. Jury convicted Vario a week earlier.
Buffalo Daily Courier 03-14-07.
1907 Mar 29
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
The Ignatz-Florio Co-operative Association Among Corleonesi borrows $15,000 from Realty Operating Company, using a property at 137th Street and Home Avenue as security.
John A. Philbrick v. Ignatz Florio Co-operative Association Among Corleonesi et al, New York County Clerk #3039/1910.
1907 spring
New Haven, CT, US
Vincenzo Sabatassae
New York gangster Sabatassae is released from Sing Sing Prison after serving five years. He relocates to New Haven, CT, in the company of Annie Taddeo, and engages in extortion, burglary, and arson.
"Black hands go to prison," Boston Globe, Aug. 7, 1909, p. 1.
1907 Apr 17
New York, NY, US
Joseph Petrosino, Enrico Alfano
Lt. Joe Petrosino arrests New York City Camorra leader Enrico Alfano, begins process of having him deported.
Source
1907 Apr 22
Wilkes-Barre, PA, US
Santo Volpe, Stefano LaTorre, Charles Bufalino
The trial of 13 Italians accused of membership in a Mafia Black Hand Society begins in Wilkesbarre, PA.
"Black Hand on trial," Frederick MD News, April 23, 1907, p. 3.
1907 May 6
Wilkes-Barre, PA, US
Santo Volpe, Stefano LaTorre, Charles Bufalino
Jury finds Black Hand defendants Santo Volpe and Andrew Paternoster not guilty but convicts 11 others, including Stefano LaTorre and Charles Bufalino.
"Found guilty," Connellsville PA Daily Courier, May 6, 1907, p. 1.
1907 Jul 1
Palermo, Palermo, Sicily
Frederico Randaccio
Frederico Randaccio is born in Palermo, Sicily.
Reid, Grim Reapers, p. 54.
1907 Jul 19
Buffalo, NY, US
Frank Guarino, Liborio DiMarto
Justice Murphy of Police Court discharges Frank Guarino and Liborio DiMarto, who had been accused of attempting to extort $10,000 from the Buffalo Pitts Company through Black Hand methods. Superintendent Regan says he will ask District Attorney Abbott to submit the case to the Grand Jury.
Buffalo Daily Courier 07-20-07.
1907 Nov 17
Chicago, IL, US
Chicago's Unione Siciliana organization publicly pledges to fight 'Black Hand' Italian criminal organizations.
Source
1907 Dec 4
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Giuseppina Pieri is born in Buffalo to Giovanni and Ignazia Pieri.
Source
1907 Dec 31
Los Angeles, CA, US
John Bentivazna
Barber John Bentivazna is shot and mortally wounded through the window of his shop, 2205 East Ninth Street, in the heart of the Italian colony. He dies on a hospital operating table one hour later. In Bentivazna's pocket, police find a threatening letter referring to a quarrel in New York City. The letter includes a drawing of a black hand, a dagger and a skull, also the warning, "Leave. Your last chance."
"The Black Hand in Los Angeles," Nevada State Journal, Jan. 1, 1908, p. 8.
1907
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello ends tenure as president of the Ignatz Florio Co-Operative Association.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1907
New York, NY, US
Charles Luciano
Arrives at age 9 with his family in New York. Settles in Lower East Side, on First Avenue near 14th Street, in a neighborhood generally populated by Jews and Eastern Europeans.
Source
1907
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Masseria
Masseria is arrested and receives a suspended sentence for burglary and extortion.
Source
1908 Mar 17
MA, US
Raymond Patriarca
Birth of future New England crime boss Raymond Loredo Patriarca in Massachusetts.
Source
1908 Apr 24
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Sciandra
Future northeast PA crime boss Sciandra arrives in New York City aboard the S.S. Nord America. He travels with his mother and siblings to Buffalo, where they stay with his father Angelo Sciandra, 211 Court Street.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Nord America, arrived New York April 24, 1908.
1908 Jul 2
New York, NY, US
John A. Philbrick, Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Philbrick seeks to foreclose on property of the Ignatz Florio Co-operative Association Among Corleonesi. The association borrowed $15,000 from Realty Operating Company on March 29, 1907. Realty Operating assigned a bond and mortgage to John A. Philbrick & Bro. on April 26, 1907.
John A. Philbrick v. Ignatz Florio Co-operative Association Among Corleonesi et al, New York County Clerk #3039/1910.
1908 Jul 26
Washington, DC, US
A group of special agents is formed within the Justice Department. It later becomes the federal Bureau of Investigation.
Source
1908 Oct
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo reportedly promises to eliminate Petrosino.
Source
1908 Dec 1
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Creditors note that Ignazio Lupo has disappeared, leaving behind more than $100,000 in business debts for his grocery importing store at 210 to 214 Mott Street. The creditors bring a complaint into bankruptcy court. Lupo is ordered to appear before Jan. 14, 1909.
"Rich Italian gone; once Mafia leader," New York Times 12-5-1908 p. 1; "Bankruptcy notices," New York Times 12-19-1908 p. 15.
1908 Dec 16
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo, Salvatore Manzella
Bankruptcy petition is filed against Manzella, dealer of wines and Italian products at 196 Elizabeth St. Manzella claims he was ruined by Lupo.
"Ruined by Lupo, the Mafia leader," New York Times 03-17-1909 p. 1.
1908 summer
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo family arrives in Buffalo.
Buffalo public school records for Joe DiCarlo.
1908
Milan, Italy
Salvatore Sabella
Sabella begins a three-year sentence in a Milan prison for the murder of his boss in 1905.
Source
1908
Corleone, Palermo, Sicily
Jack Dragna
Dragna, 8 years old, returns with his family to Sicily after a brief stay in the United States.
Source
1908
Buffalo, NY, US
Joseph DiCarlo
DiCarlo family's first Buffalo home was a tenement on Eagle Street.
Joe DiCarlo testimony to immigration officials, 1932, p. 133."
1908
Chicago, IL, US
Johnny Torrio, Jim Colosimo, Frank Yale
Torrio leaves New York. He had been a leader of the Five Points gangs, which had spread, with Frank Yale's help, into Brooklyn. At the invitation of Chicago underworld leader Jim Colosimo, Torrio goes to Chicago and is assigned the task of eliminating Black Handers who are preying on Colosimo's operation.
Source
1908
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo is believed to be operating out of a headquarters at 210 Mott Street. His influence has spread throughout the Sicilian-Italian communities in Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Bronx.
Source
1908
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo vanishes from his bankrupt wholesale grocery leaving a huge amount of unpaid debts. According to one estimate, Lupo's business debts total $700,000.
Source
1908
New York, NY, US
Vincent Terranova, Sam Sicci
Terranova is questioned and released following the murder of Diamond Sam Sicci.
Source
1908
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joe Bonanno
Bonanno, at age 3, comes to US with his family. Settles briefly in Brooklyn.
Source
1908
New York, NY, US
Joseph Petrosino, Enrico Costabili
Lt. Petrosino arrests Neapolitan criminal Costabili and arranges for his deportation.
Source
1908
New York, NY, US
Raffaele Palizzolo, Joseph Petrosino
Fleeing Sicilian authorities and a murder charge, Palizzolo sails to New York. He is given a hero's welcome by much of the Sicilian-American community, and is banqueted. Petrosino begins to move against him, but Palizzolo leaves the city on his own.
Source
1909 Jan
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Court rules that Lupo is bankrupt.
"Counterfeitmaking on a river farm," New York Times, 01-28-1910 p. 3.
1909 Feb 1
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
NYPD Commissioner Theodore Bingham requests the aid of Secretary of State Robert Bacon in arranging with Italy for the extradition of Lupo.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1909 Feb 7
New York, NY, US
Stefano Magaddino
Stefano Magaddino, 17, single, of Castellammare del Golfo, arrives in New York aboard the S.S. San Giorgio from Palermo.
Ellis Island records.
1909 Feb 19
New York, NY, US
Theodore Bingham, Joseph Petrosino
New York Police Commissioner Bingham is on record discussing the supposedly secret visit of Lt. Petrosino to Italy.
Source
1909 Feb 21
Joseph Petrosino
New York Police Lt. Joe Petrosino arrives in Italy to investigate secret criminal societies and begin process of identifying and returning criminals who have relocated to New York.
Source
1909 Feb 27
New York, NY, US
Paolo Palmeri
Paolo Palmeri arrives in New York City aboard the S.S. Prinzess Irene from Naples.
Ellis Island records.
1909 Feb 28
Palermo, Sicily
Joseph Petrosino
New York Police Lt. Joe Petrosino arrives in Sicily and conducts interviews relating to the Mafia.
Source
1909 Mar 9
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Sylvester is arrested on suspicion of bomb throwing. He is discharged by Police Court Judge Herman.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1909 Mar 12
Palermo, Palermo, Sicily
Joseph Petrosino
NYPD Lieutenant Joseph Petrosino, leader of the Italian Squad, is shot to death in the Piazza Marina of Sicilian capital city Palermo. Petrosino was in Italy on official business of the NYPD.
Petacco p. 147.
1909 Mar 12
Palermo, Palermo, Sicily
Joseph Petrosino, Vito Cascio Ferro, Ignazio Lupo
Petrosino, touring the Mafia capital alone, is shot and killed by unknown persons. Murder is believed to have been arranged by Cascio Ferro and Lupo.
Source
1909 Mar 16
Washington, DC, US
The Bureau of Investigation - later known as the Federal Bureau of Investigation - is officially created within the Department of Justice in the William Taft Administration.
Source
1909 May 7
Chicago, IL, US
Mariano Zagone
Zagone is shot to death outside his son-in-law's Gault Court saloon.
"Black Hand victim shot," Chicago Daily Tribune 05-08-09 p1.
1909 Jul 1
Washington, DC, US
Congress makes its first appropriation for the new Bureau of Investigation within the Justice Department.
Source
1909 Jul 27
Danbury, CT, US
Giovanni Zarcone
Zarcone, one of the men arrested in connection with the Barrel Murder, is shot to death at his home in Danbury, CT.
"Kill fourth man in Barrel Murder," New York Times 07-29-1909 p. 2; "Fourth suspect is slain," Washington Post 07-29-1909 p. 4.
1909 Aug 6
New Haven, CT, US
Vincenzo Sabatasse
Vincenzo Sabatassae, leader of an extortion ring in New Haven, CT, is sentenced to 28 years in prison. Sabatassae used the alias of Giuseppe Rosi. Police believed he was a member of a New York gang sent to New Haven to organize criminal activity. Codefendants Frank Guido, Jack Liboro, Natale Pascale (cousin of a city official) and Giuseppe Massaro are sentenced to jail terms between three and 25 years. The gang recently robbed a resident of gold he brought back from Alaska. Sabatassae was arrested in New York.
"Black hands go to prison," Boston Globe, Aug. 7, 1909, p. 1.
1909 Sep 20
East Harlem, NY, US
Genaro Gallucci, Giosue Gallucci
Police announce that Giosue Gallucci's brother Genaro has been apprehended and will be deported. Local merchants had complained that Genaro was demanding tribute payments. He had been away from the city for some time.
"Caught after year's chase," New York Times, Sept. 21, 1909."
1909 Oct 1
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri, Giuseppe Pieri
Giuseppe Pieri is born in Buffalo to Giovanni and Ignazia Pieri.
Source
1909 Nov 12
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo returns to New York City after nearly a year in hiding. He and his attorney Charles E. LeBarbier enter the office of bankruptcy referee Peter B. Olney, 68 William St. Lupo claims that he was the victim of Black Hand extortion. He says he went to Baltimore to raise money and then went on to Buffalo. He lived with a cousin on New York's West Side for two months and then spent four months living in Ardonia, NY.
"Black Hand suspect was bled himself," New York Times, 11-13-1909 p. 1.
1909 Nov 14
New York, NY, US
Genaro Gallucci, Giosue Gallucci, Aniello Prisco
Genaro Gallucci is shot to death within his brother Giosue's bakery at 318 East 109th Street. His murderer is not identified but is widely suspected to be Neapolitan Black Hand gangster Aniello "Zopo the Gimp" Prisco.
"Italian 'bad man' strangely slain," New York Times, Nov. 15, 1909.
1909 Nov 14
New York, NY, US
Stefano Magaddino
Carmela Caroddo, 16, of Castellammare del Golfo, future wife of Stefano Magaddino, arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Perugia from Palermo.
Ellis Island records.
1909 Nov 15
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Antonio Cecala, Nicholas Terranova
Agents under Secret Service Agent in Charge William Flynn of the New York Office make counterfeiting arrests. In Morello's possession, agents find a number of notes relating to counterfeiting and Black Hand extortion operations of his gang.
William Flynn Notes 11-15-09 p.4-6.
1909 Nov 15
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo, Giuseppe Morello, Antonio Comito
Lupo and Morello and 13 Italian associates are arrested for counterfeiting after police raid their printing plant, a stone house in Highland, NY. Morello is arrested at his home and is found to be in possession of Black Hand correspondence with victims in New Orleans. One associate, Pasqual Vasi, is apprehended with 1,200 bogus bills in his possession. The Secret Service says it recovered counterfeit American and Canadian currency in the raid. Gang's printing specialist, Comito, agrees to testify against the other counterfeiters.
Source
1909 Nov 17
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo is arrested for extortion.
"Can't implicate Lupo," New York Times, 11-19-1909 p. 5.
1909 Nov 24
Danville, IL, US
Joseph Mascari
A large charge of dynamite, believed to have been placed by Black Handers, explodes under the fruit and wine business of Joseph Mascari, demolishing five buildings and doing an estimated $50,000 worth of damage.
"Five buildings blown up," Mahoning Ohio Dispatch, Nov. 26, 1909, p. 2.
1909 Dec 10
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo and partners incorporate the Buffalo Italian Importing Company.
Source
1909 Dec 15
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Accused of counterfeiting with the Morello-Lupo gang, Sylvester is also charged with burglarizing a feather company.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1909
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Western New York Mafia leader Giuseppe DiCarlo is in the fruit business with an address of 120 Front Avenue, Buffalo.
1909 Buffalo City Directory.
1909
New York, NY, US
Arnold Rothstein
Rothstein opens gambling house at Hotel Francis on West 45th Street. It is reportedly his first established gaming location.
Source

1910

Return

1910 Jan 9
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo is charged with counterfeiting.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Jan 26
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo, Antonio Cecala, Salvatore Cina, Vincenzo Giglio, Giuseppe Calicchio, Giuseppe Palermo, Nicholas Sylvester
Counterfeiting trial of Morello, Lupo and six others begins in Judge Ray's U.S. Circuit Court. Assembling the jury takes half a day. The defendants are represented by Mirabeau L. Towns, Caesar B.F. Barra, Charles LeBarbier and William Byrnes. Prosecutor Abel F. Smith makes the opening statement. The first witness for the prosecution is Antonio Comito, a Calabrian, who says he unwillingly assisted in the printing of counterfeit currency for the gang.
"Guileless printer made counterfeits," New York Times, 01-27-1910 p. 16.
1910 Jan 27
New York, NY, US
Antonio Comito, Salvatore Cina
Comito continues his testimony regarding the printing of counterfeit currency at Salvatore Cina's stone house in Highland NY, across the river from Poughkeepsie. Plans called for bills to be circulated in Chicago, Pittsburgh and Buffalo.
"Counterfeitmaking on a river farm," New York Times 01-28-1910 p. 3.
1910 Jan 31
New York, NY, US
Antonio Comito
Comito is cross-examined by Mirabeau L. Towns. Comito explains that he was educated in printing and engraving at Catanzaro, later qualified as a teacher and worked for a time as a lawyer and Protestant minister in Brazil (though he was never admitted to the bar or ordained). In New York, he lost a printing job during the economic troubles of 1907 and fell in with the counterfeiting gang in 1908.
"Comito a nimble witness," New York Times, 02-01-1910 p. 2.
1910 Feb 1
New York, NY, US
Antonio Comito
Cross-examined by Charles LeBarbier, Comito is asked why he did not look into LeBarbier's face. Comito replied through an interpreter that he did not like LeBarbier's face because it reminded him of the faces of the thugs who forced him to print the counterfeit money.
"Didn't like lawyer's face," New York Times, 02-02-1910 p. 4.
1910 Feb 2
New York, NY, US
Antonio Comito, Katrina Pascuzzi
Comito's cross examination concludes. His girlfriend Katrina Pascuzzi/Pasqussi is called to the stand to corroborate portions of his testimony. During cross examination, defense attorneys ask where she and Comito are living during the trial. Federal agents are holding them in a secret location.
"Hide counterfeit witness," New York Times, 02-03-1910 p. 5.
1910 Feb 3
New York, NY, US
M. Dana
Prosecution witnesses testifies to seeing the counterfeiting defendants in the area of Highland NY. M. Dana says he sold a printing press to the gang.
"Corroborating counterfeiter's story," New York Times, 02-04-1910 p. 12.
1910 Feb 6
Tunisia, Africa
Carlos Marcello
Birth of future New Orleans mob boss Carlos Marcello to Sicilian parents in Tunisia.
Source
1910 Feb 10
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
U.S. officials consider deporting New York 'Black Hander' Ignazio Lupo, who is on trial for counterfeiting. Lupo faces a lengthy sentence for murder in Italy.
Source
1910 Feb 15
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Defense attorney Mirabeau L. Towns brings witnesses to the stand to testify to defendant alibis and good character.
"Lupo's defense not ended," New York Times, 02-16-1910 p. 3.
1910 Feb 16
New York, NY, US
Ignazio Lupo
Taking the witness stand, Lupo tells of his background in Sicily, and of the killing of storekeeper Salvatore Morello which prompted him to flee his homeland at age 19. He tells of his escape to England, then to Montreal and into the U.S. through Buffalo.
"Killing that made the Wolf an exile," New York Times, 02-17-1910 p. 4.
1910 Feb 19
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo, Antonio Cecala, Salvatore Cina, Vincenzo Giglio, Giuseppe Calicchio, Giuseppe Palermo, Nicholas Sylvester
Judge Ray delivers charge to the jury lasting two hours and 35 minutes. The jury is sent out to lunch and deliberations at 2 p.m. It returns with guilty verdicts against the accused at 3:15 p.m.
"150 years in all for the Lupo gang," New York Times, 02-20-1910 p. 1.
1910 Feb 19
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo, Antonio Cecala, Salvatore Cina, Vincenzo Giglio, Giuseppe Calicchio, Giuseppe Palermo, Nicholas Sylvester
Judge Ray issues sentences for the convicted counterfeiters - none is less than 15 years and a $1,000 fine. Lupo - 15 years and $500 Count 1, 15 years and $500 Count 2; Morello - 15 years and $500 Count 1, 10 years and $500 Count 2; Calicchio - 15 years Count 1, 2 years Count 2, $600 fine; Sylvester - 15 years and $1,000; Cecala - 12 years Count 1, 3 years Count 2, $1,000 fine; Cina - 15 years and $1,000; Giglio - 15 years and $1,000; Palermo - 18 years and $1,000. Eight other accused counterfeiters of the gang, plus Comito, are still to come to trial.
"150 years in all for the Lupo gang," New York Times, 02-20-1910 p. 1; "30 years for Wolf," Washington Post, 02-20-1910 p. 1.
1910 Feb 20
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2882.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 20
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2883.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Antonio Cecala
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2886.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Antonio Cecala, inmate no. 2886, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Salvatore Cina
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2879.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Salvatore Cina, inmate no. 2879, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Vincenzo Giglio
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2880.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Vincenzo Giglio, inmate no. 2880, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2884.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Committed to the United States Penitentiary at Atlanta, GA, as inmate #2884. Sylvester was also known as Nicolo Remegie. His parents were Montana/Monteno and Teresa Remegie, 343 E. 109th St.. His brother was Louis Remegie, 433 Midland Ave., Dunwoodie/Yonkers NY.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1910 Feb 24
New York, NY, US
George W. Ray
Judge Ray reveals that he had received a Black Hand threat through the mail at the start of the Morello-Lupo counterfeiting trial. The letter was translated: "If the counterfeiters are not liberated, you will die like a dog. We have killed better men that you or Smith or Flynn."
"Threaten Judge Ray," New York Times, 02-25-1910 p. 1.
1910 Mar 7
New York, NY, US
Leoluca Vasi
Vasi, 1680 3rd Ave., fruit merchant, pleads guilty in Judge Holt's U.S. Circuit Courtroom to possession of 1,148 counterfeit $2 bills. Sentencing is scheduled for March 14. The Secret Service's William Flynn discovered a bundle of phony bills under Vasi's bed. Vasi admits he distributed the bills while tending his fruit stand at 3rd Ave and 90th Street.
"Accused man confesses," New York Times, 03-08-1910 p. 18
1910 Mar 17
New York, NY, US
Salvatore Matisi
Secret Service arrest Matisi, charging him with distributing the Morello-Lupo gang's counterfeit Canadian currency. William Flynn announces that Matisi was one of the suspects in the 1903 Barrel Murder.
"Handled the counterfeits," New York Times, 03-18-1910 p. 2.
1910 Mar 24
Pueblo, CO, US
Sam Falcone
Black Hander Sam Falcone is killed by a gunshot through the heart just before 4 p.m., when a sheriff's posse catches up with him. Falcone had been sending extortion letters to Tony Santuso, demanding that $2,000 be placed in a can at a location several miles from the county poor farm. The posse kept an eye on the location. Falcone and a companion were ordered to throw up their hands. Instead, they drew weapons. The companion was wounded but escaped on horseback.
"Black Hand shot red-handed," Nevada State Journal, March 25, 1910, p. 1.
1910 Jun 23
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo, Antonio Cecala
They are penalized "good time" for trying to bribe a guard to mail unauthorized letters. Lupo and Cecala both receive three days in solitary on a restricted diet, lost 20 days of "good time."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta, Atlanta Federal Prison file of Antonio Cecala, inmate no. 2886, NARA-Atlanta.
1910 Jul 17
Pittsburgh, PA, US
Tony Gallucci
Gallucci is arrested in Pittsburgh and held for a hearing before U.S. Commissioner W.T. Lindsey. He is believed to be part of the Morello-Lupo counterfeiting operation.
"Italian accused of counterfeiting," Pittsburgh Daily Post, July 18, 1910, p. 5; Pittsburgh Press, July 20, 1910, p. 2.
1910 Nov 10
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Buffalo Italian Importing Company, run by western New York Mafia leader Giuseppe DiCarlo, files for bankruptcy.
Source
1910 Dec 1
New York, NY, US
Modesto DiSonna
Secret Service agents and New York police discover a package of 500 counterfeit $2 bills within a basement fireplace at 86 Chrystie Street. They arrest 13 men and hold nine of them as "disciples" of Ignazio Lupo. The alleged leader of the nine was DiSonna, of 77 Chrystie Street.
"Hold nine as pupils of Lupo the Wolf," New York Times, 12-02-1910 p. 1; "Last of Lupo's gang," Washington Post, 12-02-1910.
1910 Dec 10
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Boscarino
A federal jury convicts Boscarino of passing counterfeit bills for the Morello-Lupo gang.
"Federal jury convicts Boscarino," New York Times, 12-11-1910 p. 6.
1910
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Giuseppe DiCarlo works as a grocer, Manzello & DiCarlo, 161 Court Street, Buffalo.
1910 Buffalo City Directory.
1910
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Buffalo Importing Co., wholesale wines and liquors, does business from 161 Court St., Buffalo.
1910 Buffalo City Directory.
1911 Jan 1
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Gaspare Messina
Future New England crime boss Gaspare Messina resides in Brooklyn as his first son, Salvatore Joseph, is born.
Gaspare Messina naturalization petition, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, 167233, April 4, 1930.
1911 Jan 11
Palermo, Palermo, Sicily
Giuseppe Piraino
Piraino is convicted in Palermo court on unknown charge. He is sentenced to serve 25 years and one month in prison and a fine. He escapes and travels to U.S.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1911 Jan 17
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo family purchases a two-family home at 246 Seventh St., Buffalo. Official purchaser is Vincenza DiCarlo."
Property transfers.
1911 Jan 29
Buffalo, NY, US
Salvatore Pieri, Giovanni Pieri
Salvatore "Sam" Pieri is born in Buffalo, NY, to Giovanni and Ignazia Ciresi Pieri. The family lives at 176 W. Genesee
St.Pieri Birth Certificate; Social Security Death Index.
1911 Jan
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Rumors indicated that Morello had been willing to provide information on the assassination of NYPD Lieutenant Petrosino in exchange for a shortened jail sentence. Morello reportedly provided information but refused to sign his name to his statement. Officials later denied the stories.
"Scared from telling who shot Petrosino," New York Times, 01-17-1910 p. 1.
1911 Feb 7
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
James V. Ortelero, stenographer for Deputy Police Commissioner (former Secret Service agent) William Flynn, writes to Atlanta Prison officials describing Morello's involvement in the murder of a Sicilian official decades earlier. Ortelero's father was blamed for the killing and jailed. Ortelero hopes Morello will confess to the killing.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Feb 13
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo receives three days in solitary on restricted diet and loses 10 days of "good time" for "laughing, talking and making signs to #2885 Sylvester."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Feb 15
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
James V. Ortelero writes to warden Moyer describing the murder decades years earlier of Corleone, Sicily, police official Giovanni Vella. According to Ortelero, Morello and an accomplice were sent to murder Vella by the Mafia. The murder was blamed on Ortelero's father, a political opponent of Vella. A witness to the murder was killed, others frightened into silence. Ortelero mentions that he heard Morello is ready to inform on the murderers of Petrosino, and he hopes Morello will take the blame for the Vella murder.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Mar 20
New York, NY, US
Aniello Prisco, Pasquarella Spinelli
Aniello Prisco is believed responsible for the shooting death of Pasquarella Spinelli in her East Harlem stables.
Source
1911 Apr 17
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
James V. Ortelero, stenographer for Deputy Police Commissioner (former Secret Service agent) William Flynn, writes to warden William H. Moyer in anticipation of Morello's confession. Ortelero hopes Morello will confess to a killing for which his ailing father was imprisoned.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Apr 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio writes to the prison warden to discuss the presence of Mala Vita / Mafia within the prison, and its danger to him personally.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Apr 26
Atlanta, GA, US
Antonio Cecala
Cecala is reprimanded for wasting food.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Antonio Cecala, inmate no. 2886, NARA-Atlanta
1911 May 17
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Terranova
Terranova files Declaration of Intention to become a U.S. citizen, Supreme Court of New York County. His address at the time is 216 E. 105th Street. He works as a plasterer.
Declaration of Intention no. 30872.
1911 Jun 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo, et al
U.S. Attorney Wise writes to Attorney General George W. Wickersham to express his happiness at the Circuit Court of Appeals affirmation of the counterfeiting convictions. He notes that Secret Service's William Flynn hopes to be able to use the convictions to convince gang members to provide information.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Jun 23
Washington, DC, US
Antonio Comito
U.S. Attorney Wise acknowledges receipt of Attorney General's authorization to pay an additional $150 to informer Comito on the condition that he leave the country.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Jul 11
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Sylvester is reprimanded and charged five days for quarreling with prisoner #2108 Richter.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Sep 17
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Reprimanded for disorderly conduct.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Oct 16
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Caliccho
Calicchio is warned for disorderly conduct.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1911 Oct 29
New York, NY, US
"Chuck" Minaco, Aniello Prisco, Pasquarella Spinelli, Nelly Lenere
Minaco, about 25, is stabbed to death by Lenere, 20, in the home she shares with her step-mother Spinelli. Police hear that Minaco, an associate of Prisco's, gained entrance by telling Lenere he had information about her estranged husband who was near death. According to Lenere, Minaco had beaten here to learn the combination of a safe at the home at 239 E. 109th Street. As he attempted to open the safe, Lenere stabbed him 25 times. The police find that Lenere acted in self-defense.
"Slain by a woman," New York Times, Oct. 30, 1911, p. 11."
1911 Dec 26
New York, NY, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera, 30, arrives in New York City on Dec. 26, 1911, aboard the S.S. Duca Di Genova. Leaves behind wife Maria Campanella. Heads to Pittston to meet with brother in law Giuseppe Alba on Railroad Street.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Duca di Genova arrived NYC Dec. 26, 1911."
1911 Dec 30
Hartford, CT, US
Antonio Pietrolino
The body of Antonio Pietrolino, 20, is found face down in a Hartford-area lot. Pietrolino's right hand grasped a loaded revolver. A bullet had passed through his heart. Originally from San Stefano in Calabria, Pietrolino received his mail at the steamship agency of Salvatore DiCaprio, 302 East 44th Street, New York City. He reportedly ventured far from the city to extort money from victims.
"Mafia's hand seen in Hartford murder," New York Times, Jan. 4, 1912, p. 11.
1911
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Benedetto Palmeri moves from New York City to Buffalo, and opens a saloon at 103 Dante Place.
1911 Buffalo City Directory.
1912 Jan 3
Hartford, CT, US
Antonio Pietrolino
Authorities believe Pietrolino was killed by a society to which his victims belonged. His murder is linked to the discovery of a suitcase containing two revolvers and a bottle of chloroform puchased in Scranton, PA.
"Mafia's hand seen in Hartford murder," New York Times, Jan. 4, 1912, p. 11.
1912 Mar 20
New York, NY, US
Pasquarella Spinelli, Aniello Prisco, Nelly Lenere
Prisco appears to follow through on a vow to avenge the 1911 death of Francesco "Chick" Monaco. At dusk, he and an associate corner Pasquarella Spinelli in her stable, 334 E. 108th Street, and fire three bullets into her. She falls dead as her step-daughter, Lenere, watches from a front window of their new home across the street at 335 E. 108th Street.
"Woman dies in feud begun by daughter," New York Times, March 21, 1912, p. 1; "Murdered in vendetta," New York Tribune, March 21, 1912, p. 2.
1912 Apr 12
Pittston, PA, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera files Declaration of Intention in U.S. Court, Middle District of Pennsylvania, in Scranton. He is a miner, 37, born in Montedoro, Sicily, Sept. 7, 1874. Current home at 43 Railroad Street, Pittston. Arrived in NYC aboard S.S. La Veloce on Sept. 11, 1903.
Declaration of Intention, April 12, 1912.
1912 Apr 14
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Disorderly conduct results in a punishment of three days in isolation and on restricted diet.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Apr 16
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Morello, Calogero Morello, Charles Bario, Joseph Pollizzo
Morello's son, Calogero, is shot to death in a gunfight in East Harlem. Calogero and Joseph Pollizzo had shared an apartment, 214 E. 107th Street, until Pollizzo was jailed for burglary - he was recently released. Bario lived at 249 E. 113th Street. Factions in the street gang blamed each other for providing police with evidence used to convict Pollizzo. The three young men left a saloon at 114th Street and 3rd Ave. together after 9:30 p.m. Morello drew a handgun and fired point-blank into Bario. Bario returned fire, as Pollizzi fumbled momentarily with his weapon. Morello and Pollizzi shot at each other, as Morello retreated. All were found near death.
"Three gunmen fight until all are down," New York Times 04-17-1912 p. 24.
1912 Apr 17
New York, NY, US
According to Herbert Asbury, a conflict erupts between Sicilians and Neapolitans in East Harlem. Asbury reports that five men are killed in a gun battle at 114th Street and Third Avenue on this date. Asbury's account may have grown out of the April 16 incident involving Calogero Morello, Charles Bario and Joseph Pollizzo.
Source.
1912 Apr 28
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Morello's mother, Angela Piazza Morello, writes to warden William Moyer, asking that Morello be moved in with Ignazio Lupo at least temporarily, as Morello mourns the death of his son.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 May 14
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Angela Piazza and Lina Morello (Morello's wife) write to warden Moyer asking that Morello be moved into a cell with Lupo, as Morello mourns the death of his son Calogero.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 May 16
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Vincent Terranova
Vincent Terranova, 252 E. 105th Street, NYC, visits his brother Morello at Atlanta Prison.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Jun 6
New York, NY, US
W. Bourke Cochran, Giuseppe Morello
Attorney Cochran files an appeal of the verdict in Morello's counterfeiting trial. He argues that the prosecution earned a guilty verdict in the counterfeiting case by providing evidence that Morello had been guilty of murder. The verdict is upheld by the appeals court.
Source
1912 Jun 6
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, W. Bourke Cockran
Attorney Cockran asks the Supreme Court for a review of Morello's case. The attorney argues that the prosecution worked to convict Morello of counterfeiting by proving him guilty of murder.
"Counterfeiter's case appealed," Washington Post 06-07-1912 p. 4.
1912 Jun 10
Washington, DC, US
Giuseppe Morello
U.S. Attorney Wise writes to the Solicitor General regarding writ of certiorari: "I sincerely trust that the Court will not grant the writ. It would be a great misfortune is there should be a reversal in that case, as the Government's witnesses have all disappeared and there could not be a retrial."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Jun 10
Washington, DC, US
Giuseppe Morello
U.S. Supreme Court denies a writ of certiorari in the case of Giuseppe Morello v. the United States, No. 1168, Oct. term 1911.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Jun 10
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Nicholas Terranova
Wife Nicolina Salemi Morello and brother Nicholas Terranova, 252 E. 105th St., visit Morello.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Jun 26
Buffalo, NY, US
Stefano Pieri, Giovanni Pieri
Stefano Pieri is born in Buffalo to Giovanni and Ignazia Pieri.
Source
1912 Jul 14
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
News reports indicate that imprisoned counterfeiter Ignazio Lupo intends to assassinate Detective William J. Flynn and others who had a hand in his conviction.
Source
1912 Aug 24
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Carmine Altieri of Estates Mortgage Securities Company, NYC, writes to the warden asking that he question Morello on what became of the Ignatz Florio Co-Operative Association: "I should like to know why the property situated at 512 and 516 East 80th Street, which this company owned, was turned over to one of the stockholders and nothing given to the rest. There are about 150 stockholders in this company and they are desirous of knowing why this one was given preference. This company also owned eight more houses and the stockholders would like to know what has been done with these. The stockholders in this company are all poor and hardworking people who have invested all their earnings in this company."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Aug 24
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Notes handwritten on back of Altieri letter above: "1. Now, does not exist. 2. Now knows nothing of this property. Has been in pen so long has forgotten everything."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Aug 27
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Responding to Altieri, the warden writes, "I advise you that this prisoner says that 'The Ignatz Florio Co-Operative Association' does not now exist and that he knows nothing of this property."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Aug 28
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Palmeri is one of 11 Italian "saloonkeepers" arrested in a gambling raid at 91 Dante Place. Edward Christopher is owner of the establishment that hosted a poker game.
Buffalo Morning Express 08-29-12, p. 6; Buffalo Daily Courier 09-25-12 p. 6; Buffalo Morning Express 09-25-12, p. 9.
1912 Aug 29
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Carmine Altieri of Estates Mortgage Securities Company writes again to prison warden, asking what happened to other Ignatz Florio Co-Operative Association parcels on East 137th and East 138th Streets, NYC.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Sep 20
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio asks warden for permission to work on a perpetual motion machine and to order parts from catalogs.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Sep 22
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio writes to Scientific American magazine asking for $50 to help him build a perpetual motion machine.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Sep 24
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Palmeri, Dominic Maduri, Joseph Muigido and Edward Christopher are fined $50 each in connection with Aug. 28 gambling charge.
Buffalo Daily Courier 09-25-12 p. 6; Buffalo Morning Express 09-25-12, p. 9.
1912 Sep 25
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Prison warden writes to deputy warden about Calicchio: "...I will not approve any more special letters, nor will I specially approve the delivery of catalogues or books to him in furtherance of his alleged invention of a perpetual motion machine. So far as human knowledge extends now, perpetual motion is a human impossibility and, being so, there is no use in wasting time or money in considering it."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Oct 3
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Palermo suffers paralysis to his left arm and left leg and is admitted to the prison hospital.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Oct 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Vincenzo Giglio
Disciplined for fighting - solitary confinement for five days.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Vincenzo Giglio, inmate no. 2880, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Oct 25
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
With help from medical staff, Palermo begins limited walking.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1912 Oct
New York, NY, US
Frank Yale
Charged with disorderly conduct - first charge to go on his police record.
Source
1912 Dec 16
East Harlem, NY, US
Aniello Prisco, Giosue Gallucci, John Russomano
Black Hand extortionist Prisco, resident of 2133 First Avenue, has been attempting to extort money from East Harlem rackets boss Gallucci. A meeting was set up between the two men for late Dec. 16 at Nick DelGaudio's barbershop. Gallucci suddenly took ill before the meeting and sent word through assistant Tony Capilongo that he would meet Prisco in the rear room of a bake shop downstairs from his apartment. As Prisco arrived, he was shot in the head by Gallucci bodyguard Russomano. Gallucci reports that Prisco shoved a revolver to his belly and demanded $100. Seeing that, Russomano drew a weapon. Prisco turned toward Russomano but Russomano got the first shots off.
"Kills a gangster to save his uncle," New York Times, Dec. 17, 1912; "'Zopo the Gimp,' king of Black Hand, slain," New York Tribune, Dec. 17, 1912, p. 16.
1912 Dec 19
East Harlem, NY, US
Aniello Prisco, John Russomano
A coroner's jury decides that Russomano's killing of Prisco was done is self-defense. Russomano is released.
"Slayer of 'Zopo' freed," New York Tribune, Dec. 20, 1912, p. 16."
1912
Castellammare del Golfo, Trapani, Sicily
Joe Bonanno
The Bonanno family returns home to Sicily after learning of a threat to their interests there.
Source
1912
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Salvatore Sabella
The future Philadelphia Mafia ruler arrives in Brooklyn after sailing from his native Sicily.
Source
1913 Jan 11
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Gaspare Messina
Future New England crime boss Gaspare Messina resides in Brooklyn as his second son, Luciano, is born.
Gaspare Messina naturalization petition, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, 167233, April 4, 1930.
1913 Feb 9
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio, Antonio Cecala
Calicchio is disciplined for stealing from the prison tailer shop. He took a light bulb to use in his cell. He is reprimanded and his cell is to be kept dark for 10 days. Cecala aided him in the theft and receives the same punishment.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta, Atlanta Federal Prison file of Antonio Cecala, inmate no. 2886, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Feb 18
New York, NY, US
John Russomano, Tony Capilongo
Unknown gunmen fire what are believed to be rifles equipped with silencing devices at Russomano and his bodyguard Capilongo as the two are about to enter Russomano's home at 329 E. 109th Street. No shots are heard, but Capilongo (also known as Tony Vivola) turns, cries out and falls mortally wounded. Russomano feels a bullet sting in one arm, then his back and then his other arm. He cries out for help, and Giosue Gallucci runs over from his nearby business. Police block off the street but cannot find the gunmen. The incident is believed linked to Russomano's killing of Aniello Prisco (1912).
"Death shots silent," Washington Post, Feb. 19, 1913.
1913 Apr 9
New York, NY, US
Amadeo Buonomo, Aniello Prisco
Amadeo Buonomo, believed to be a member of New York's Aniello Prisco gang, is shot at close range in the back of the head and killed. He is climbing down stairs to a wine cellar at 113th Street and First Avenue at the time of the attack.
Source
1913 May 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Palermo's nephew Frank Minore writes to him, describing conversations he had with attorneys and with William Flynn. They "absolutely refuse that you come out of the penitentiary, as you are bad people, rabble of the Black Hand, and adding so many more bad words. What can we do? This was our fate, and this we must embrace..."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1913 May 23
New York, NY, US
Vito Genovese
Genovese, 16, enters the U.S. at New York aboard the S.S. Taormina.
Naturalization document, Nov. 25, 1936, New York City.
1913 May 23
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Palermo's nephew Frank Minore writes to him of the futility of trying for Presidential intervention: "They went personally to the President, and they had the answer that you belong to Lupo's band, that there is the hospital if you are sick, and the cemetery if you die; but that you will never come out of the prison. Do you understand? You are considered as the others; that is all... I would say and advise you to eat, drink and keep up your good conduct, and that is all to it."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1913 May 24
New York, NY, US
Charles Lomonte
An unknown gunman opens fire on Fortunato "Charles" Lomonte as he drives a cart up Fifth Avenue near 108th Street. Lomonte escapes, but his bodyguard is shot to death.
"Slayer's knife stays Mafia secret in New York's Little Italy, while another avenger shoots victim," Washington Post, May 25, 1914, p. 2.
1913 Jun 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Palermo's nephew Frank Minore writes to him comparing their attorneys to Black Handers: "They are robbing the money without accomplishing anything at all."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 5
New York, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri, Giuseppe DiCarlo
Benedetto Palmeri and Rosaria Mistretta - cousin of Giuseppe DiCarlo - are married by the Rev. Pasquale Beccaria at Mary Help of Christians Church in New York City's East Village. Giuseppe and Giuseppina Crivello were witnesses. Palmeri's address is 246 East 7th St., NYC. Mistretta's address is 240 East 13th St., NYC.
Certificate of marriage
1913 Oct 15
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
The President commutes Sylvester's sentence to five years. With good conduct allowance, his release date moved to Oct. 28, 1913.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 19
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Stefano Magaddino
Stefano Magaddino, 23, and Carmela Caroddo, 20, are married in Brooklyn. Both reside at 126 N 6th St.
Certificate of marriage.
1913 Oct 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio is disciplined for creating a disturbance in the cell houses - clapping and yelling. He is reprimanded and charged 30 days conditionally.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 20
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Reprimanded and warned for disorderly conduct.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Pardon Attorney James Finch writes to prison warden, sending him the warrant of commutation for Sylvester.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 23
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Sylvester notes that he had been penalized five days of good conduct time for an argument in July 1911. As that would have delayed his release, he asks the warden to restore the five days. In a separate note, he also asks that an overcoat be issued to him upon his release, "since I am going to New York City, where the weather is extremely cold at this time of year."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 25
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Warden decides to restore the five days good conduct time to Sylvester.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Oct 28
Atlanta, GA, US
Nicholas Sylvester
Sylvester is released. He is the first of the Morello-Lupo defendants to exit Atlanta penitentiary.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Nicholas Sylvester, inmate no. 2885, NARA-Atlanta
1913 Nov 3
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Terranova
Terranova files petition for naturalization with the New York State Supreme Court. His address is 252 E. 105th St. He works as a plasterer.
Nicholas Terranova Petition for Naturalization no. 36747.
1913 Dec 13
Atlanta, GA, US
Vincenzo Giglio
Giglio is reprimanded for disorderly conduct in his cell. Musical privilege suspended for a month.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Vincenzo Giglio, inmate no. 2880, NARA-Atlanta
1913
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe Masseria
Masseria, 34, is arrested and sentenced to 4.5 years after a failed burglary of a pawn shop at 164 Bowery.
Source
1914 Jan 8
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio is disciplined for infraction of rules and disorderly conduct. He is reprimanded and warned.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1914 Jan 10
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Giovanni Pieri, 40, died after "a long and painful disease." Born in Montemaggiore Belsito, he and his brothers sailed for the U.S. about 20 years earlier, settling in Buffalo. A large funeral is held Jan. 12. The two Societies of Montemaggiore took part. Society President Santo Sapienza and Vito Simone spoke at the funeral. Giovanni is survived by wife Ignazia, seven children, brothers Giuseppe, Stefano and Rosolino.
Source
1914 Feb 7
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Asked for a medical progress report on Morello, prison physician J. Calvin Weaver responds: "This man is in rather a run-down condition, and requires a good deal of medical attention. He suffers a good deal from indigestion, and recently I issued a request that he be given a change of work to some light job. His condition is only fair."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1914 Feb 15
New York, NY, US
Rosario Bufalino
Young Bufalino returns to the U.S. after a time in Italy following the death of his mother. He and his sister Giuseppa go to stay with their brother Calogero in Buffalo.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Venezia, arrived New York Feb. 15, 1914."
1914 Feb 19
New York, NY, US
Louis Lazazara, Pasqualina Spinelli
Louis Lazazara, 62, is stabbed to death at First Avenue and East 108th Street. Lazazara was partner of Pasquarella Spinelli in a stable at 337 East 108th Street. Police arrest Angelo Lasco, saloonkeeper, in front of 301 East 108th Street. He is blood-stained. Lazazara and stableboy Emilio Prisco had been arrested in connection with Spinelli's murder but were discharged."
"Third murder in feud," New York Times, Feb. 20, 1914, p. 2.
1914 Mar 10
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Terranova
Terranova is naturalized a citizen of the U.S.
Certificate of Naturalization no. 456117.
1914 Apr 12
Boston, MA, US
Antonio Messina
Antonio Messina, 30, claims not to know who fired three slugs into his body in East Boston. The shooting was done on Sumner Street in the early evening, within view of several bystanders.
Source
1914 May 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Vincenzo Giglio
Vincenzo Giglio dies in prison. Daughter later writes to prison asking for a photo of Giglio so she could remember him.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Vincenzo Giglio, inmate no. 2880, NARA-Atlanta
1914 May 23
East Harlem, NY, US
Charles Lomonte
Fortunato "Charles" Lomonte is gunned down at 116th Street and 1st Avenue. Lomonte was a trusted ally of Terranova and perhaps the Mafia chief of East Harlem. The murder was the result of conflict with Brooklyn-based Mafia boss Salvatore D'Aquila, who sent his top assassin Umberto Valenti to eliminate Lomonte.
Gentile, Nick, Vita di Capomafia, 1993, p. 78.
1914 May 23
New York, NY, US
Charles Lomonte
Fortunato "Charles" Lomonte, of 213 E. 107th Street, is fatally shot at 11 a.m. by a hidden gunman in front of 312 E. 108th Street in East Harlem. The victim had been on his way to his grain office, 2131 First Avenue. Lomonte was taken to Harlem Hospital with three bullet wounds. His brother Thomas refuses to assist authorities in their investigation.
"Shot in a feud in 'Little Italy,'" New York Times, May 24, 1914, p. 22.
1914 May 24
New York, NY, US
Charles Lomonte
Fortunato "Charles" Lomonte, of 213 E. 107th Street, dies at Harlem Hospital of his bullet wounds.
"Lamonte dies of shot wound," New York Sun, May 25, 1914, p. 5.
1914 Jun 9
New York, NY, US
Ciro Terranova
Terranova files Declaration of Intention to become a U.S. citizen, Supreme Court of New York County. His address at the time is 253 E. 105th Street. He works as a plaster contractor.
Declaration of Intention no. 85877.
1914 Jul 7
New York, NY, US
Thomas Lomonte
Gaetano "Thomas" Lomonte applies for U.S. citizenship.
New York County Supreme Court Naturalization Petition Index.
1914 Jul 14
Buffalo, NY, US
Matteo Orlando
Bomb destroys saloon owned by Matteo Orlando at 1 Trenton Ave. Orlando family, living in apartments over the saloon, is unhurt. Explosion is attributed to Black Hand activity.
Buffalo Daily Courier 07-15-14
1914 Jul 16
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
A Chicago detective is killed on Twenty-Second Street. Police believe saloonkeeper Jim Colosimo has information related to the crime.
Source
1914 Jul 17
Buffalo, NY, US
Giovanni Pieri
Horace Pieri is born in Buffalo to Ignazia Pieri. His father Giovanni Pieri died six months earlier.
Source
1914 Jul 21
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
For refusing to cooperate with an investigation into the slaying of a detective, Chicago's 'Big Jim' Colosimo becomes a target of law enforcement and media attention.
Source
1914 Jul 27
New York, NY, US
Paolo Palmeri, Silvio Tagliagambe
Paolo Palmeri, 21, of 32 East Houston St., NYC, and Elena Curti, 17, of 341 East 5th St. are married at City Hall. Witnesses are Silvio Tagliagambe and Luigi Manzella.
Marriage certificate.
1914 Aug 5
New York, NY, US
Angelo Genna
Future Chicago Mafia boss Angelo Genna arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Venezia. He is on his way to meet his brother Pietro, 870 Blue Island Avenue in Chicago.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Venezia, arrived New York Aug. 5, 1914.
1914 Aug 27
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
Chicago newspapers report that Jim Colosimo, fearing costly legal judgments, put his real estate holdings into the name of his first wife, Victoria Moresco.
Source
1914 Oct 19
East Harlem, NY, US
Nick DelGaudio
Neapolitan gang boss DelGaudio, of 2029 First Avenue, is shot to death by a gunman in the upstairs loft of a stable at 421 East 104th Street near First Avenue.
"Vows revenge by husband's body," New York Tribune, Oct. 20, 1914, p. 5.
1914 Nov 6
New York, NY, US
Owney Madden
Owney "the Killer" Madden, leader of the Gophers gang, is shot five times by members of the Hudson Dusters gang while relaxing at the Arbor Dance Hall, Seventh Avenue and 52nd Street. Madden survives. He refuses to cooperate with police, choosing to handle the matter himself.
Source
1914 Nov 15
Tampa, FL, US
Santo Trafficante Jr.
Santo Trafficante Jr. is born to Santo Sr. and Maria Giuseppa Cacciatore Trafficante at Tampa.
FBI Memo, Tampa FL, Nov. 26, 1974.
1914 Nov 24
East Harlem, NY, US
Barnet Baff
Poultry businessman Barnet Baff is murdered by Sicilian gunmen at his shop in Washington Market.
"Trail men who paid for Baff's murder," New York Times, Feb. 15, 1916, p. 5; "Police find gunman who murdered Baff," New York Times, Feb. 10, 1916, p. 6.
1914 Nov 26/28
New York, NY, US
Owney Madden, William Moore
Gophers gang leader Owney Madden settles a score by killing Hudson Dusters gangster William Moore.
Source
1914 Dec 3
Niagara Falls, NY, US
Vincenzo Villardo
Vincenzo Villardo, 610 Twentieth St., Niagara Falls, receives his fourth Black Hand demand for payment. Letter tells him to leave $500 with a man he would meet near Log Cabin hotel, Edgewater. Fourth letter threatens Villardo's life and contains a drawing of daggers stabbing a heart. Letters all originated at Buffalo Station C.
Buffalo Daily Courier 12-04-14 p 13.
1914 Dec 20
Niagara Falls, NY, US
Joseph Basile
A Black Hand bomb wrecks the front of Joseph Basile's grocery, 1011 East Falls St., Niagara Falls, just before midnight. Basile received four Black Hand letters, all sent from Station B in Buffalo.
Buffalo Daily Courier 12-21-14 p 9.
1914
Philadelphia, PA, US
Salvatore Sabella
The future Mafia boss is noted in the south Philadelphia business community.
Source
1914
Chicago, IL, US
Jack Dragna
Dragna returns to the U.S. for good. Briefly affiliated with Chicago gangs before establishing himself in southern California.
Source
1914
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo, Angelo Palmeri
DiCarlo-Palmeri Saloon operates at 103 Dante Place, Buffalo with telephone # Seneca 1703."
1914 Buffalo telephone directory.
1914
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo, Angelo Palmeri
DiCarlos and Palmeris reside at 246 Seventh St., Buffalo.
1914 Buffalo City Directory.
1914
New York, NY, US
Umberto Valenti
Valenti's presence in the city is noted by the media.
Source

1915

Return

1915 Jan 3
Atlanta, GA, US
Antonio Cecala
Cecala's parole is denied.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Antonio Cecala, inmate no. 2886, NARA-Atlanta
1915 Jan 9
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Reprimanded and warned for spitting on the floor.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1915 Jan 28
New York, NY, US
Leopoldo Lauritano
Brooklyn-based Camorra boss Lauritano is naturalized a citizen of the U.S. in New York City.
Lauritano naturalization petition.
1915 Jan 30
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
After weeks of legal battles, Jim Colosimo's restaurant at 2128 Wabash Avenue in Chicago is allowed to reopen."
Source
1915 Feb 24
New York, NY, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera, 40, arrives in New York aboard the S.S. Stampalia. He leaves behind his wife Maria Campanella in Montedoro. He heads for Pittston PA, to nmeet his cousin Giuseppe Alba.
Passenger manifest of S.S. Stampalia arrived NYC Feb. 24, 1915.
1915 Feb 26
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Palmeri is one of three men - all of 68 Dante Place - arrested for assaulting patrolman Edward McNamara as he attempts to make an arrest.
Buffalo Daily Courier 02-27-15; Buffalo Commercial Advertiser 02-27-15; Buffalo Times 02-27-15 p. 3; Buffalo Enquirer 02-27-15 p. 2.
1915 Mar 5
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Palmeri, 68 Dante Place, is convicted of third degree assault in connection with the Feb. 26 incident. He is fined the maximum $250. Antonio Sacca and Charles Valarosa are discharged.
Buffalo Enquirer 03-05-15 p. 11; Buffalo Evening News 03-06-15 p. 9.
1915 Apr 27
Boston, MA, US
Gaspare Messina
Gaspare Messina resides in Boston as his third son, Vito Anthony, is born.
Gaspare Messina naturalization petition, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, 167233, April 4, 1930.
1915 May 17
East Harlem, NY, US
Giosue Gallucci, Lucca Gallucci
The "king" of the East Harlem underworld is shot along with his son Lucca at Lucca's coffeehouse, 336 E. 109th Street. Gallucci, born in Naples, had previously led a band of Sicilian and Neapolitan racketeers in East Harlem. The murders of Sicilian leader Charles Lomonte (1914) and Gallucci seem to indicate that the Sicilian and Neapolitan factions have split and are warring.
"Father and son shot," New York Times, May 18, 1915; "Two shot down in Harlem feud," New York Tribune, May 18, 1915, p. 1.
1915 May 18
East Harlem, NY, US
Lucca Gallucci
Lucca Gallucci dies at Bellevue Hospital of his gunshot wounds.
"Wounds kill Gallucci," New York Tribune, May 22, 1915, p. 6.
1915 May 21
East Harlem, NY, US
Giosue Gallucci
East Harlem underworld boss Giosue Gallucci dies at Bellevue Hospital of his gunshot wounds.
"Wounds kill Gallucci," New York Tribune, May 22, 1915, p. 6.
1915 Jun 1
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri, Giuseppe DiCarlo
Angelo Palmeri and his wife live upstairs at 246 Seventh St. DiCarlo family live downstairs in the same building. Palmeri and DiCarlo are both in saloon business.
New York State Census, 1915; DiCarlo INS file p. 19.
1915 Jun 21
Boston, MA, US
Vincenzo Zenjazo, Girolamo Messina
A man known as Vincenzo Zenjazo, 26, is arrested in Boston in connection with the shooting death of Girolamo Messina, 40.
Source
1915 Jun 26
Brooklyn, NY, US
Paul Castellano
Paul Castellano is born in Brooklyn. Given name is Constantino Paul Castellano.
Source
1915 Jul 22
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Responding to a request from Warden Fred G. Zerbst, prison physician J. Calvin Weaver noted that Morello's weight had increased from 154 pounds to 185 pounds since his imprisonment: "Morello has suffered a great deal from pains in the region of the heart, which apparently were caused by poor circulation, and on that account he was put on heart tonics and heart stimulants with very beneficial results." Doctor noted "considerable improvement" in the past year.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1915 Aug 21
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Lupo received five days in solitary on restricted diet for "renumbering clothing contrary to prison rules."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1915 Sep 29
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Daughter Anna was born to Angelo and Rosaria Palmeri in Buffalo.
Anna Palmeri Birth Certificate.
1915 Oct 07
New York, NY, US
Ippolito Greco, Thomas Lomonte
Ippolito Greco, partner of Thomas LoMonte in the so-called "Murder Stable" of East Harlem, is shot to death. Other sources place this event on Oct. 22, 1915.
"$5,000 was raised for Baff killing, gunmen confess," New York Evening World, Feb. 11, 1916, p. 3.
1915 Oct 13
East Harlem, NY, US
Thomas Lomonte, Antonio Impoluzzo
Lomonte, brother of the murdered Charles Lomonte (1914), is also killed. He is shot at the corner of 116th Street and First Avenue. Antonio Impoluzzo is arrested for the murder.
"Killed by feudists, as his brother was," New York Sun, Oct. 14, 1915, p. 5; Gentile, Vita di Capomafia, 1993, p. 78.
1915 Oct 22
East Harlem, NY, US
Ippolito Greco
Greco, owner of the East Harlem "murder stable" at 227 East 108th Street, is found dead there with a bullet wound in his head. Greco is believed to have been the middle man in the arrangement of the Barnet Baff murder of 1914.
"Harlem, where the goats...," Washington Herald, Oct. 23, 1915, p. 4; "Police find gunman who murdered Baff," New York Times, Feb. 10, 1916, p. 6.
1915 Oct 28
New York, NY, US
Vincenzo Terranova
Terranova files Petition for Naturalization with New York State Supreme Court. He works as a merchant. His address is 350 E. 116th Street.
Naturalization petition.
1915
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo operates a saloon at 211 Court Street, Buffalo.
Buffalo City Directory.
1915
New York, NY, US
Frank Costello
Costello is jailed for one year for carrying a concealed weapon. Serves 10 months.
Source
1915
Los Angeles, CA, US
Jack Dragna
Dragna is convicted of extortion and sentenced to serve a prison term at San Quentin. He is later freed on appeal.
Los Angeles Times 02-24-56 p.1.
1916 Jan
New York, NY, US
Antonio Impoluzzo
Impoluzzo is convicted of the murder of Thomas Lomonte and is sentenced to execution at Sing Sing Prison.
"$5,000 was raised for Baff killing, gunmen confess," New York Evening World, Feb. 11, 1916, p. 3..
1916 Jan 5
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Rosaria (Mistretta) Palmeri, 29, dies of influenza/pneumonia at her home, 246 Seventh St., Buffalo.
Rosaria Mistretta Palmeri death certificate.
1916 Jan 5
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Giuseppe DiCarlo is living at 246 Seventh St., Buffalo. He provides family information for Rosaria Palmeri death certificate but signs the form with an "x."
Rosaria Palmeri death certificate.
1916 Jan 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Palermo parole is denied.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1916 Jan 8
Buffalo, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Rosaria Palmeri is buried at Pine Hill cemetery after funeral at St. Anthony Church.
Burial record.
1916 Feb 9
East Harlem, NY, US
Barnet Baff, Frank Ferrara, Giuseppe Arichiello
Ferrara confesses that he drove gunmen to murder Barnet Baff at his shop at the West Washington Market on Nov. 24, 1914. Ferrara indicates that Arichiello was Baff's murderer.
"Police find gunman who murdered Baff," New York Times, Feb. 10, 1916, p. 6; "Second Becker case is revealed by gunmen who murdered poultry king," Washington Times, Feb. 20, 1916, p. 1.
1916 Apr
Coney Island, NY, US
Pelligrino Morano, Alessandro Vollero, Tony Notaro
Notaro is quickly initiated into Brooklyn Camorra as the group plans an attack on the Morello mob leadership.
Source
1916 May 14
Ossining, NY, US
Antonio Impoluzzo
The convicted murderer of Thomas Lomonte exhibits signs of mental instability on Sing Sing Prison's Death Row. He is confined in a padded cell.
"Goes to chair at night," New York Sun, May 18, 1917, p. 3.
1916 May 17
Ossining, NY, US
Antonio Impoluzzo
Impoluzzo is executed in Sing Sing Prison's electric chair for the murder of Thomas Lomonte.
"Slayer goes to chair in Sing Sing at night," New York Evening World, May 18, 1917, p. 10.
1916 May 17
Atlanta, GA, US
Salvatore Cina
President commutes Cina's sentence to 10 years.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Salvatore Cina, inmate no. 2879, NARA-Atlanta
1916 May 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Salvatore Cina
Pardon Attorney James Finch wrote to prison warden, sending him the warrant of commutation for Cina.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Salvatore Cina, inmate no. 2879, NARA-Atlanta
1916 May 23
Atlanta, GA, US
Salvatore Cina
Cina receives warrant commuting his sentence to 10 years. Cina's release date changes to Nov. 7, 1916.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Salvatore Cina, inmate no. 2879, NARA-Atlanta
1916 Jun 27
New York, NY, US
Charlie Luciano
Luciano is arrested in New York on drug charges. He is sentenced to an indefinite term in the penitentiary.
Luciano FBI file memorandum, Aug. 28, 1935; Luciano transcript of arrest record, FBI, Jan. 29, 1936.
1916 Jul 20
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DeMarco
As a possible retribution for the Lomonte killings, DeMarco, who ran a gambling establishment at 54 James St., is killed there. His friend Charles "Nine-Fingered Charlie" Lombardi is also killed. Ciro Terranova is believed to have ordered the hit. DeMarco was an East Harlem racketeer who recently opened gaming rooms downtown.
"Mysterious 10 kill DeMarco and his friend," New York Tribune, July 21, 1916, p. 1.
1916 Jul 21
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DeMarco
Police believe DeMarco may have been targeted for murder by the leaders of the Fourteenth Street and 105th Street gangs, or by a Black Hand boss "of equal power to the Galluccis" who worked as an importer."
"Swann learns name of DeMarco's rival," New York Tribune, July 22, 1916, p. 4.
1916 Jul 22
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DeMarco
Two women claim to be DeMarco's wives, attempt to claim his remains.
"Biers in two households reveal DeMarco's dual life," New York Tribune, July 23, 1916, p. 6; "Two widows at morgue claim murdered man," Washington Times, July 23, 1916, p. 4.
1916 Sep
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Pelligrino Morano, Alessandro Vollero, Vincenzo Paragallo, Tony Notary, Ralph Daniello
The leadership of the Brooklyn Camorra decides to attack directly against the leadership of the Manhattan Mafia (Morellos Mob). The Camorra is led by Morano, with Paragallo serving as his lieutenant. Vollero appears to have run an affiliated gang. The Camorra assigns Tony Notaro, from out of town, and Ralph Daniello to a group of assassins.
Source
1916 Sep 7
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco
Nicholas Terranova and Charles Ubriaco/Umbriaco, 27, 431 E. 116th St NYC, are shot to death during a gunfight on Johnson Street, between Fleet Place and Hudson Avenue, Brooklyn. Terranova is hit by six bullets, Ubriaco by two. Police identify Ubriaco from fingerprints - he had been arrested June 1915 for carrying a revolver. Ciro Terranova identifies Nicholas as his brother. Detective Michael Mealli, former member of the Italian Squad and one of the investigators, recognizes Terranova.
"2 die in pistol fight in Brooklyn Street," New York Times, Sept. 8, 1916, p. 18; "2 men give lives to pay feud toll," New York Tribune, Sept. 8, 1916, p. 3; "Double murder feud outgrowth," Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Sept. 8, 1916.
1916 Oct 6
New York, NY, US
Antonio Notaro, Angelo Giordano, Giuseppe Verrazano
Angelo Giordano orders Antonio Notaro to kill gambler Verrazano. The murder is accomplished in a restaurant at 341 Broome Street. After the killing, Giordano and Notaro attend a movie.
"Says he had to kill or be killed himself," New York Tribune, April 27, 1918, p. 9.
1916 Oct 12
Providence, RI, US
Tom Russi, Cosmo DiNuccio
Providence RI and Massachusetts police search for Fred and Tom Russi, believed to be responsible for the shooting of Cosmo DiNuccio and for a white slave ring in Providence.
Source
1916 Oct 13
New York, NY, US
Salvatore DeMarco
Police find the remains of Salvatore DeMarco, Neapolitan gang leader and brother of murdered Giuseppe DeMarco, under the Manhattan side of the Queensboro Bridge. There is an ax wound to his head and a razor slash across his throat. DeMarco appeared ready to cooperate with police in the investigation of his brother's murder.
"Gang chief slain to pay feud toll," New York Tribune, Oct. 14, 1916, p. 5; "Vendettas of Italian quarter are affairs of mystery," New York Tribune, April 3, 1921.
1916 Oct 31
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo purchases homes at 270, 272, 274 Prospect Avenue, Buffalo. Official grantee was Vincenza DiCarlo.
Property transfers.
1916 Dec 8
East Harlem, NY, US
Gaetano DelGaudio
DelGaudio is shot to death while serving coffee in his lunchroom near the East Harlem "murder stable."
"19 victims of feud," Tacoma Times, Dec. 9, 1916, p. 3.
1916 Dec
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Deputy Warden Brock of Atlanta Prison is murdered as Lupo stands six feet away. Lupo later claims to know nothing of what happened. Another prisoner claims that Lupo knew of the murder before it happened and positioned himself because "he wanted to see this thing come off."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1916
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo resides at 246 Seventh St. and operates a saloon at 88 Front Avenue.
Buffalo City Directory.
1916
New York, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Anna Palmeri, Angelo's young daughter, is sent to New York City to be cared for by Angelo's in-laws.
Source.
1916
New York, NY, US
Charles Luciano
At 19, Luciano is sentenced to a year behind bars for dealing in narcotics. Serves six months.
Source
1916
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Ignazio's father Rocco dies in Italy. Had returned there after living for a time in U.S.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jan 3
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Pardon Attorney Finch writes to the Atlanta warden to ask if there is evidence that Morello knew about the recent fatal attack on a deputy warden.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jan 3
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello, Ignazio Lupo
Warden Zerbst writes to Pardon Attorney Finch: "Giuseppe Morello is intimate with Lupo but no evidence developed showing Morello knew of intended killing of Deputy Warden. Indications are that Lupo knew.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jan
Buffalo, NY, US
Francesco DiCarlo, Giuseppe DiCarlo
Francesco DiCarlo, oldest son of Giuseppe and Vincenza DiCarlo, takes ill.
Buffalo Daily Courier March 17, 1918, p. 62.
1917 Jan
New York, NY, US
Vito Genovese
Genovese is arrested for carrying a handgun.
Source
1917 Feb 25
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Stefano Magaddino, Peter Magaddino
Son Peter is born to Stefano and Carmelia Magaddino. Stefano reports his birthplace as Niagara Falls, NY. Carmela reports his birthplace as Brooklyn, NY.
Stefano Magaddino Petition for Naturalization; Carmela Magaddino Petition for Citizenship.
1917 Mar 3
New York, NY, US
Anthony Celantano
New York police arrest Anthony Celantano and break up a large numbers racket.
Source
1917 Mar 16
Yonkers, NY, US
Generoso Nazarro
"Joe Chuck" Nazarro, member of A Harlem gang, is murdered in Yonkers on orders of a growing New York crime syndicate.
"Intrigues of gun gangs traced at Fevrola trial," New York Tribune, April 21, 1921, p. 18.
1917 Apr 15
New York, NY, US
Vito Genovese
Vito Genovese is arrested for illegal possession of a revolver. He is convicted and sentenced to 60 days at the work house.
U.S. v. Vito Genovese, decision Aug. 21, 1956.
1917 May 7
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Ralph Daniello, Louis Demarco
Daniello is responsible for the shooting death of Demarco in front of 123 Navy Street in Brooklyn.
"Confession may clear 23 feud murders," New York Times, Nov. 28, 1917.
1917 Jun 5
New York, NY, US
Paolo Palmeri
Paolo Palmeri, wife and two children live at 153 Forsyth St., New York City. Palmeri works as salesman from 174 Chrystie St.
Paolo Palmeri WWI Draft registration.
1917 Jun 10
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio is disciplined for wasting food. He loses baseball and moving picture privileges for three weeks.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jul 13
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello attorney Joel M. Marx sends an application for executive clemency to Morello for his signature.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jul 18
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello signs and returns the application for executive clemency.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Jul 24
Detroit, MI, US
Andrea Lacatto, Emanuel Rogers
Detective Sgt. Emanuel Rogers of Detroit is murdered by mobster Andrea Lacatto.
Source
1917 Jul 25
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo purchases saloon property at 166 Front Ave. Official grantee is Vincenza DiCarlo.
Property transfers.
1917 Jul 31
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello's petition for executive clemency was filed.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Aug 6
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Prison physician reported that Morello developed an "organic heart lesion" and has lost weight.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Sep 12
Pittston, PA, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera, 44, of 172 Railroad Street in Pittston, registers for WWI draft. He works as miner for Erie Coal Co. of Pittston. His wife Maria Campanella Calamera lives in Montedoro, Sicily.
WWI draft reg., Sept. 12, 1917.
1917 Sep 17
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Prison physician reported that Morello is in "rather poor condition" and suffers with "organize heart trouble." Morello weighs an encouraging 175 pounds at the time.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Oct 22
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Calicchio
Calicchio is disciplined for wasting food. He is placed in isolation on a restricted diet for three days.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Calicchio, inmate no. 2881, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Nov 11
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Antonio Mazzara, Antonio DiBenedetto
Antonio Mazzara and Antonio DiBenedetto are killed at North Fifth Street and Roebling in Brooklyn.
Source
1917 Nov 19
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Prison assistant physician reports that Morello's condition has become "very poor" and he has lost 12 pounds.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Nov 22
Washington, DC, US
Giuseppe Morello
President Woodrow Wilson writes to Attorney General T.W. Gregory to ask about the Morello case: "I would be very much obliged if you would be kind enough to have a memorandum sent me about the pardon case of Giuseppe Morello. I have been very much interested by what I have heard of it and would like to have a report on it."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1917 Nov 27
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello
Daniello's confession causes police to arrest 10 gangsters around New York. Daniello tells of the Mafia-Camorra conflict and provides details related to 23 killings.
"10 men when gunman exposes 23 murders," New York Tribune, Nov. 28, 1917, p. 16; "Confession may clear 23 feud murders," New York Times, Nov. 28, 1917; "Trail of murder gang leads to Philadelphia," Philadelphia Evening Ledger, Nov. 28, 1917, p. 2; "Ex-thug tells how gang slew 23," Washington Times, Nov. 28, 1917, p. 1; "Confesses helping murder 23 persons," Tyrone PA Daily Herald, Nov. 28, 1917, p. 1.
1917 Nov 28
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello, Michael Mealli
Daniello tells prosecutors that Detective Mealli was paid by the Camorra to ignore its crimes.
"Police aided in gang killings, is hint by Lewis," New York Tribune, Nov. 29, 1917, p. 7.
1917 Nov 30
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello, Ciro Terranova, Vincent Terranova, Anthony Santulli
Daniello's confessions lead to the indictment of 17 men for murder. The defendants include Daniello, Santulli and the Terranova brothers.
"17 indicted after confessions of 'Ralph the Barber,'" New York Tribune, Dec. 1, 1917, p. 20; "Indict 17 for murders," Washington Post, Dec. 1, 1917, p. 9.
1917 Dec 3
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello
Daniello explains to prosecutors that there are three major areas of Italian criminal operations in the city - Brooklyn, East Harlem and Downtown Manhattan. There are 10 bosses in those areas - four in Brooklyn and three each in the other territories.
"Gets new evidence in feud murders," New York Tribune, Dec. 3, 1917, p. 12.
1917 Dec 18
Los Angeles, CA, US
Pietro Matranga
Pietro Matranga, Los Angeles fruit merchant, is shot to death at Eastlake Avenue and Henry Street.
"Second in one family victim of Black Hand," Los Angeles Times, Dec. 19, 1917.
1917 Dec 20
Los Angeles, CA, US
Mike Marino, Pietro Matranga
Los Angeles police seek Mafia gunman Mike Marino, regarded as an international gunman in the employ of the Mafia. They believe Marino was involved in the slaying of Pietro Matranga.
"International gunman sought in Mafia case," Los Angeles Times, Dec. 20, 1917.
1917
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo, 274 Prospect Ave., operates saloon at 166 Front Ave.
Buffalo City Directory.
1917
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Giuseppe DiCarlo retires from his commission merchant business
Buffalo Enquirer, July 10, 1922, p. 11.
1917
New York, NY, US
New York police announce to the media that Sicilian and Neapolitan criminal organizations in the city appear to be combining forces.
Source
1917
New York, NY, US
Umberto Valente
Umberto Valente, 25, born Aug. 14, 1891, in Barcellona, Messina, Sicily, lives at 428 East 14th Street, New York City. He is single, an out-of-work tailor. Height and build medium, brown hair and brown eyes.
Umberto Valente WWI Draft Registration Card.
1918 Jan 8
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello's counterfeiting sentence is commuted to 15 years by the President.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jan 10
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Morello's attorney writes to Atlanta Prison advising of the commutation of Morello's sentence.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jan 14
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Warrant for Morello's release, signed by Pardon Attorney James A. Finch, is delivered to Morello at Atlanta Prison.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jan 14
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Warden Zerbst writes to Morello's attorney, noting that the commutation document had been received, but explaining that Morello will not be eligible for parole until he has served one-third of his original sentence (June 20, 1918).
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jan 24
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
Former Secret Service Agent William Flynn supports Lupo's application for executive clemency: "I believe this defendant has been sufficiently punished by his present imprisonment of eight years and I therefore beg to recommend the granting of executive clemency in this case."
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jan 26
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello, Rocco Valente
Daniello's confession leads to the roundup of Italian gang members, including Rocco Valente. Valente is arrested in Troy NY and charged with complicity in the murders of Joseph DeMarco and Charles Lombardi.
"Arrest in gang murders," New York Times, Jan. 27, 1918, p. 7.
1918 Feb 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
William Flynn writes again to the President on Lupo's behalf. He indicates that he believed the relative guilt of Morello and Lupo was the same and notes that Lupo's punishment has been greater.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Ignazio Lupo, inmate no. 2883, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Feb 9
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joseph Florino
Florino is arrested for assault and later discharged.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1
1918 Feb 14
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Allessandro Vollero, Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco
Wine merchant Vollero and eight others are tried for first degree murder in connection with the 1916 shooting deaths of Terranova and Ubriaco. The jury learns that, to avenge the earlier 1916 killing of Nicholas DelGaudio in Manhattan, Camorra leaders lured Terranova and Ubriaco to Brooklyn with the promise of a peace conference. Assistant D.A. Warbasse tells the jury that, following the murders, the Vollero gang celebrated with a dinner at the San Lucia Restaurant of Pellegrino Morano at Coney Island.
"Murder laid to Camorra," New York Times Feb. 15, 1918, p. 5; "Killed 3 men, then held celebration," Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Feb. 14, 1918, p. 1.
1918 Feb 15
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Allessandro Vollero, Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco, Ralph Daniello
The day's testimony in Supreme Court Justice Isaac M. Kapper's courtroom is entirely provided by Daniello, He testifies to preparations for the killing of Terranova and Ubriaco and to a bribery fund gathered for former Italian Squad detective Michael Mealli.
"Gunman names detective," New York Times, Feb. 16, 1918, p. 6; "Says murder gang collected purse for a detective," New York Tribune, Feb. 16, 1918, p. 15.
1918 Feb 18
Brooklyn, NY, US
Allessandro Vollero, Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco
Supreme Court Justice Isaac M. Kapper takes ill. A mistrial is declared in the murder trial of Vollero and eight other Camorrists. A new trial is expected to start March 4.
"Justice's illness causes mistrial," New York Times, Feb. 19, 1918, p. 13.
1918 Mar 8
Brooklyn, NY, US
Allessandro Vollero, Gasparino Vincinanza, Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco
Vincinanza, a former cellmate of Vollero, testifies to Vollero's plotting against the Morello family, who he felt were responsible for the murder of his close friend.
"Friend turns on prisoner," New York Tribune, March 9, 1918, p. 4.
1918 Mar 13
Buffalo, NY, US
Francesco DiCarlo, Giuseppe DiCarlo
Francesco DiCarlo, 19, 274 Prospect Ave., oldest son of Giuseppe and Vincenza, dies during the Spanish Flu pandemic. He had been sick for 14 months. Dr. James Mangano attributes his death to tuberculosis.
Frank DiCarlo Death Certificate; BDC 03-17-18 p. 62.
1918 Mar 14
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Allessandro Vollero, Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco
Vollero is convicted of first-degree murder in connection with the 1916 slayings of Terranova and Ubriaco. Vollero is called the head of the Camorra organization based at Navy Street in Brooklyn.
"Jury finds gunman guilty of murder," New York Tribune, March 15, 1918, p. 8.
1918 Mar 15
Buffalo, NY, US
Charles Alessi
Charles Alessi, 122 Trenton Ave., finds an unexploded bomb under the doorstep of his home. Fuse extinguished an inch from the bomb. Police say the bomb was powerful enough to destroy the house. Alessi had received two Black Hand threats in February.
Buffalo Times, March 15, 1918 p 1.
1918 Mar 16
Buffalo, NY, US
Francesco DiCarlo, Giuseppe DiCarlo
Francesco DiCarlo is buried at Pine Hill Cemetery.
Frank DiCarlo Death Certificate.
1918 Apr 22
New York, NY, US
Vito Genovese
Genovese is arrested for felonious assault and later discharged.
U.S. v. Vito Genovese, decision Aug. 21, 1956.
1918 Apr 26
New York, NY, US
Antonio Notaro, Angelo Giordano, Giuseppe Verrazano
Notaro, previously convicted of the 1916 murder of Giuseppe Verrazano, testifies that Giordano ordered him to commit the murder or be killed himself.
"Says he had to kill or be killed himself," New York Tribune, April 27, 1918, p. 9.
1918 May 14
New York, NY, US
Tony Notaro, Ralph Daniello, Pelligrino Morano, Alessandro Vollero
Gunman Tony Notaro testifies against Brooklyn Camorra boss Pellegrino Morano in a trial for the 1916 murders of Nicholas Terranova and Charles Ubriaco.
Source
1918 May 20
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Atlanta Prison records clerk sends a letter to Joel M. Marx, noting that Morello's application for parole is denied.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 May 28
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Though Morello is confined to the prison hospital, the physician reports that he is not seriously ill.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1918 Jun 6
New York, NY, US
Ciro Terranova, John Esposito, Giuseppe DeMarco, Charles Lombardi
Admitted assassin "Lefty" Esposito testifies against Terranova as Terranova stands trial for ordering the July 20, 1916, murder of Joseph DeMarco (Charles Lombardi was accidentally killed as well). Terranova is acquitted because the witnesses against him are also technically accomplices in the crimes charged against him and no outside corroboration was offered. Esposito says he was paid by and took orders from a Brooklyn saloonkeeper.
"Killer at $15 a week," Washington Post, June 7, 1918, p. 9; "Arrest in gang murders," New York Times, June 27, 1918, p. 7; "Assassin, hired at $15 a week, admits part in 6 murders," New York Tribune, June 7, 1918, p. 16; "Killed only four, declares gunman paid $15 a week," Washington Times, June 7, 1918, p. 8.
1918 Jun 7
New York, NY, US
Nicholas Terranova, Charles Ubriaco, John Esposito, James Notaro, Alphonse Sgroia
"Lefty" Esposito, 26, 657 Degraw St.; "Mike the Fixer," Notaro, 25, Hempstead; and "Butch" Sgroia, 33, 331 43rd St. plead guilty to first degree manslaughter in connection with the 1916 killings of Terranova and Ubriaco. They had provided information to Assistant D.A. Herbert N. Warbasse.
"3 Camorra guilty of manslaughter," Brooklyn Daily Eagle, June 7, 1918.
1918 Jun 20
New York, NY, US
Ralph Daniello
Daniello pleads guilty to second degree manslaughter and is given a suspended sentence.
"Daniello, gangster, gets suspended sentence," Brooklyn Daily Standard Union, June 20, 1918.
1918 Jun
New York, NY, US
Leopoldo Lauritano, Giuseppe Verrazano
While held as a suspect in the Verrazano murder of October 1916, Lauritano is tried and convicted of manslaughter. He begins a sentence of 20 years in Sing Sing Prison.
"Dodd charges plot to Justice Strong," New York Times, Jan. 28, 1926.
1918 Jul 25
New York, NY, US
Ciro Terranova
Terranova files Petition for Naturalization with New York State Supreme Court. He and his wife Tessie Catania have three children - Angelina, Benjamin and Anna. Their address is 350 E. 116th Street.
Ciro Terranova Petition for Naturalization no. 78124.
1918 Sep 7
New York, NY, US
Frank Patsui
A murder occurs at the Knickerbocker Club - organization of waiters - at 78 Sixth Avenue in Manhattan. "Patsy" Patsui later claims responsibility.
"'Navy Street Gang' said to have killed Accunzo," New York Tribune, Dec. 13, 1918, p. 16.
1918 Sep 12
Niagara Falls, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
A. Benedetto Palmeri resides at 107 11th St., Niagara Falls, works as fruit dealer from 106 Niagara St., Niagara Falls.
WWI Draft Reg.
1918 Sep 12
Buffalo, NY, US
Joseph DiCarlo
Joseph DiCarlo, 18, of 274 Prospect Ave., is a student at Hutchinson High School, West Chippewa St., Buffalo.
WWI Draft Reg.
1918 Sep 12
Boston, MA, US
Gaspare Messina
Gaspare Messina lives at 330 North Street in Boston as he registers for the World War I draft. He works as a baker at 275 North Street.
World War I draft registration, Sept. 12, 1918.
1918 Sep 12
Atlanta, GA, US
Ignazio Lupo
While incarcerated in Atlanta, Lupo registers for the WWI draft. Card indicates home address of 423 Jefferson St., Hoboken, NJ; birthdate of March 21, 1877; nearest relative Salvatrice Lupo, 350 E. 16th Street, NYC; occupation of prisoner; height medium; build medium; eyes brown; hair gray."
World War I draft registration.
1918 Sep 12
Atlanta, GA, US
Antonio Cecala
While incarcerated in Atlanta, Cecala registers for the WWI draft. Card indicates home address of 204 E. 4th Street, NYC; birthdate of April 4, 1875; naturalized citizen; nearest relative Grace Cecala, 558 E 191st St. Bronx.; he is short, stout, brown eyes, black hair.
World War I draft registration.
1918 Sep 12
Sunland, CA, US
Giuseppe Ernesto Ardizzone
Giuseppe Ardizzone, 33, is a self-employed farmer in Sunland, a community in the northeast of Los Angeles County.
World War I draft registration, Sept. 12, 1918.
1918 Oct 16
Los Angeles, CA, US
Tony Matranga, Pietro Matranga, Sam Matranga, Stephen Ardizzone
Los Angeles police believe Tony Matranga, father of deceased Mafiosi Pietro and Sam Matranga, is responsible for the shooting of Stephen Ardizzone.
"Last Matranga arrested," Los Angeles Times, Oct. 17, 1918.
1918 Nov 1
Los Angeles, CA, US
Tony Matranga, Stephen Ardizzone
Witnesses to the shooting of Stephen Ardizzone in Los Angeles say prime suspect, Tony Matranga was not Ardizzone's assailant.
"Grandson doesn't accuse Matranga," Los Angeles Times, Nov. 2, 1918.
1918 Dec 2
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Giuseppe Piraino, Gasparino Candello
"Clutching Hand" Piraino is arrested in connection with the murder of Candello. Candello had been stabbed 21 times, tied up and stuffed into a barrel found at 44th Street and Eighth Avenue in Brooklyn. Three other men also charged. He is tried and acquitted.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1918 Dec 7
New York, NY, US
Giro Accunzo
Accunzo, a Court Street butcher, is murdered.
"'Navy Street Gang' said to have killed Accunzo," New York Tribune, Dec. 13, 1918, p. 16.
1918 Dec 10
New York, NY, US
Giro Accunzo, Frank Patsui, Charles Passarelli, Joseph Mongelli, Joseph Vaccaro, John Panico
Police arrest Patsui, Passarelli and Mongelli in connection with the murder of Accunzo. They learn of the involvement of Vaccaro and Panico in the murder.
"'Navy Street Gang' said to have killed Accunzo," New York Tribune, Dec. 13, 1918, p. 16.
1918 Dec 12
New York, NY, US
Giro Accunzo, Frank Patsui, Charles Passarelli, Joseph Mongelli, Joseph Vaccaro, John Panico
Vaccaro and Panico are arrested and held for the murder of Accunzo. Vaccaro is accused of offering $1,000 to the killers.
"'Navy Street Gang' said to have killed Accunzo," New York Tribune, Dec. 13, 1918, p. 16.
1918 fall
Buffalo, NY, US
Joseph DiCarlo
Joseph DiCarlo, son of western New York Mafia boss Giuseppe DiCarlo, withdraws from high school.
Source
1918
New York, NY, US
Vincenzo Terranova
Terranova, 33, indicates his home address is 350 E. 116th St. and his work is merchant for R. Violi of 2056 First Ave. New York City. Nearest relative is Bessie Terranova.
WWI draft registration, serial number 1807.
1918
Brooklyn, NY, US
Frank Yale
Yale oversees Mafia interests in Brooklyn. Yale is Calabrian not Sicilian. However, Calabrians appear to have been welcomed into the Mafia underworld in the U.S. (Neapolitans are largely excluded).
Source
1919 Jan 2
Brooklyn, NY, US
Giuseppe Piraino
Clutching Hand is arrested and charged with murder. Later discharged by magistrate.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1919 Jan 4
Detroit, MI, US
Antonio Giannola
Detroit mob boss Antonio Giannola is shot to death on Rivard Street in Detroit.
Source
1919 Jan 11
Philadelphia, PA, US
Stefano Magaddino
Daughter Josephine is born to Stefano and Carmelia Magaddino. Stefano reports her birthplace as Niagara Falls, NY. Carmela reports her birthplace as Philadelphia, PA.
Stefano Magaddino Petition for Naturalization; Carmela Magaddino Petition for Naturalization.
1919 Jan 21
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joseph Florino
Florino is arrested for assault and later discharged.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1919 Jan 29
US Washington, DC, US
U.S. Eighteenth Amendment, Prohibition, is adopted.
Source
1919 Feb 2
Detroit, MI, US
Pasquale Danni, Sam Giannola
Pasquale Danni, brother-in-law of local mob boss Sam Giannola, is killed at Goddall Street and Biddle Avenue.
Source
1919 Feb 11
New York, NY, US
Ciro Terranova
Terranova is naturalized a citizen of the U.S.
Ciro Terranova Certificate of Naturalization no. 1121698.
1919 Feb 19
Scranton, PA, US
Calogero Calamera
Calamera, 45, of 133 Railroad Street, Pittston, is granted citizenship in the U.S. He is a miner born in Montedoro, Sicily, on Sept. 7, 1874. He arrived in U.S. in 1903.
Naturalization document, Feb. 19, 1919, U.S. Court for Middle District of Pennsylvania.
1919 Feb
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Vincenza "Jenny" DiCarlo is diagnosed with cancer. Husband Giuseppe DiCarlo, boss of western New York Mafia, summons doctors from Rochester, Boston and New York City.
Buffalo Times 07-13-19.
1919 Mar 25
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joseph Florino
Florino is arrested for assault and robbery. Later discharged.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1919 Apr 9
East Liberty, PA, US
Michael Genovese
Future Pittsburgh crime boss Genovese is born in East Liberty, PA.
Source
1919 Apr 15
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Joseph Florino
Florino is arrested for assault and robbery. Later discharged.
"Racketeer is slain in Brooklyn street," New York Times, March 28, 1930, p. 1.
1919 May 4
Detroit, MI, US
Joseph Buccellato, Mike Maltisi
Joseph Buccellato and Mike Maltisi are shot to death in Detroit.
Source
1919 May 11
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Angelina Morello, Giuseppe's daughter, writes to the Atlanta Prison warden, asking him to help with the release of her father.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1919 May 18
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
As he is questioned about vice charges, Chicago's Jim Colosimo physically assaults a Chicago Tribune reporter at his Arrowhead Inn establishment in Burham.
Source
1919 May 19
Chicago, IL, US
Jim Colosimo
Previously known as 'Colosimo the Immune' for his ability to avoid punishment, Chicago vice lord Jim Colosimo is arrested for assaulting a Chicago Tribune reporter.
Source
1919 Jun 9
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Vincenza "Jenny" DiCarlo, wife of western New York Mafia boss Giuseppe DiCarlo, makes out her last will and testament in Buffalo. Giuseppe DiCarlo, Angelo Palmeri and Palmeri bodyguard Frank Rangatore are with her. Property is left to daughter Sarah DiCarlo, with Giuseppe DiCarlo as executor.
Last Will and Testament of Vincenza DiCarlo.
1919 Jun
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Vincenza DiCarlo, wife of western New York Mafia boss Giuseppe DiCarlo, is taken to Memorial Hospital in New York City for treatment.
Buffalo Times 07-13-19.
1919 Jul 3
New York, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Vincenza "Jenny" DiCarlo dies after surgery at Memorial Hospital in New York City. She was suffering from cancer of the uterus.
Buffalo Times 07-13-19; Death certificate; Burial records.
1919 Jul
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
Holy Cross Church, Maryland and Seventh Sts., hosts Jenny DiCarlo's funeral. It is attended by more than 600 relatives and friends. Pastor Joseph Gambino officiates. She resided at 274 Prospect Ave.
Buffalo Daily Courier 07-13-19 p. 62; Buffalo Times 07-13-19.
1919 Jul
Brooklyn, NY, US,
Ralph Daniello, George Buess
Daniello and West Hoboken resident Buess argue at a Coney Island elevated train station. Daniello shoots and seriously wounds Buess.
"George Buess...," New York Tribune, Oct. 30, 1919, p. 20.
1919 Aug 26
Ossining, NY, US
Allessandro Vollero
Vollero, an inmate of Sing Sing prison, is granted a seven-week stay of execution. He had been scheduled for execution in the first week of September. Vollero was convicted of first degree murder in 1918.
"Reprieves given two slayers in Sing Sing," Syracuse Herald, 08-27-1919 p. 20.
1919 Sep 5
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Palermo
Parole is denied.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Palermo, inmate no. 2884, NARA-Atlanta
1919 Sep 11
Buffalo, NY, US
Nino Sacco
The Venice Restaurant business begins. Business certificate #9266 is filed under the name Nino Sacco.
Erie County NY Clerk's Office.
1919 Sep
Dallas, TX, US
Carlo Piranio
The arrest of a Liberty bond thief leads to Dallas crime boss Piranio.
Source
1919 Oct 3
Detroit, MI, US
Salvatore Giannola
Gang boss Salvatore Giannola is shot to death in Detroit.
Source
1919 Oct 13
New York, NY, US
Allessandro Vollero
Sing Sing officials announce that Vollero has been transported back to New York City for his appeal.
"Lynar in Sing Sing cell," New York Times 10-14-1919 p. 19.
1919 Oct 29
Brooklyn, NY, US,
George Buess, Ralph Daniello
Buess testifies in Coney Island police court that Daniello shot him the previous July at an elevated train station.
"George Buess...," New York Tribune, Oct. 30, 1919, p. 20.
1919 Nov 8
Dallas, TX, US
Carlo Piranio
Piranio is arraigned for his involvement in the theft of $2,500 worth of Liberty bonds. He is released on $1,000 bond. A middle man involved in the theft remains at large.
"Arrest made in connection with Liberty bond theft," Dallas Morning News, Nov. 9, 1919, p. 9.
1919 Dec 17
Atlanta, GA, US
Giuseppe Morello
Atlanta warden writes to Superintendent of Prisons D.S. Dickerson explaining that Presidential commutation wiped out the $1,000 fine for Morello and set his prison term at 15 years. Warden notes that good conduct allowance would permit release on March 18, 1920.
Atlanta Federal Prison file of Giuseppe Morello, inmate no. 2882, NARA-Atlanta
1919 Dec 21
New York, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Widower Benedetto Palmeri and Loretta Mistretta are married by the Rev. Ercole A. Maglio at Mary Help of Christians Church in New York City's East Village. Filippo Gandolfo and Giuseppina Gandolfo are witnesses. Palmeri lives at 558 Portage Rd., Niagara Falls. Loretta provides a home address of 240 East 13th St., NYC (one block from the church).
Marriage certificate.
1919 Dec 30
New York, NY, US
Paolo Palmeri
Paolo Palmeri, 27, barber, lives at 441 East 14th Street, New York City, with his wife Helen. He is 5-foot-7, 150 pounds.
Paolo Palmeri Declaration of Intention.
1919
Philadelphia, PA, US
Salvatore Sabella
Sabella takes the reins of the Philadelphia Mafia. He was trained for his new position under Giuseppe Traina of the Toto D'Aquila organization in Brooklyn, NY.
Source
1919
Chicago, IL, US
Alphonse Capone, Johnny Torrio, Frank Yale
Capone, wanted for murder in New York, flees to Chicago to work with Torrio. Yale, mentor to Capone, reportedly made arrangements with Torrio. As non-Sicilians, Torrio and Capone are viewed as allies but not members of the Mafia and the Unione Siciliana.
Source
1919
Buffalo, NY, US
Giuseppe DiCarlo
DiCarlo, 274 Prospect Ave., operates saloon at 166 Front Ave.
Buffalo City Directory.
1919
Niagara Falls, NY, US
Angelo Palmeri
Angelo Palmeri resides at 108 Eleventh St., Niagara Falls, and operates a cigar store from the same address.
Niagara Falls Directory.
1919
Boston, MA, US
Gaspare Messina
Messina serves as rappresentante of the Boston Mafia organization.
Flynn, James P., "La Cosa Nostra," FBI report, file no. NY 92-2300, July 1, 1963.