Medigan

South Philly Memoirs

I am an Italian American

My roots are deep in an ancient soil, drenched by the Mediterranean sun, and watered by pure streams from snowcapped mountains. I am enriched by thousands of years of culture. My hands are those of the mason, the artist, the…..

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Shofuso - Japanese House

Japanese House – Fairmount Park

savona | August 7, 2022

This beautiful Japanese house and garden is located just a few minutes from Center City Philadelphia. They have guided tours or you can just walk to grounds. For more information visit https://japanphilly.org/welcome/

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9th Street – Italian Market

savona | June 9, 2019

Produce vendor at the end of a long day – May 2012

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Broad & Kitty Hawk Avenue

savona | December 19, 2015

Brick Restoration on U.S. Navy building in the Philadelphia Navy Yard – Broad & Kitty Hawk Avenue – Nov 2015

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Memories by Katherine L.

savona | August 4, 2013

So excited to find this site. All four of my grandparents immigrated from Italy in the early 1900’s. I was born on Clarion between Tasker and Morris but grew up on 21st and Ritner. I attended Poe Elementary, then switched…..

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Broad and Wolf Streets

savona | January 4, 2012

Mummers Parade – Broad and Wolf Streets facing west – Jan 1 2012 Before the city went and ruined a century old tradition.

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How to Speak Italian

savona | March 19, 2011

I just came across this today on youtube and thought I would share it with you. Dom Irrera is a comedian who grew up in South Philly and has a special way of explaining the great culture that we all…..

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The Differences Between Us and Them

savona | December 27, 2010

(Whether you’re Siciliano, Calabrese, Napolitano or Toscano) I am sure for most second generation Italian American children who grew up in the 30s, 40’s, 50’s & 60’s there was a definite distinction between us and them. We were Italians, everybody…..

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I’m an Italian who happens to live in America.

savona | October 10, 2010

I’m not American.  I’m an Italian who happens to live in America. I’m from the Italian area of South Philly, and I was raised Italian.  Just look at one of my old yearbooks from catholic school; I’ll give you a…..

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The Gravy / Sauce Controversy

savona | January 8, 2009

I have met a lot of people in my short life who have NO idea why we (Italians) call tomato sauce, gravy.   Here and now we will end this gravy controversy once and for all. First thing you have to…..

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Pitching Pennies

savona | May 9, 2007

This is the first form of gambling a young South Philly kid was introduced to, besides Uncle Giuseppe betting the ponies at the local bar.  Pitching pennies was a favorite pastime and kids would save their lunch and chore money…..

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