Ernest DiSabatino and Sons: A Legacy of Master Stonemasonry
The story of Ernest DiSabatino and Sons (EDiS) is a classic American tale of immigrant ambition, skilled craftsmanship, and familial dedication. From the rugged tunnels of the Alps to the urban landscape of Delaware, the DiSabatino family transformed their expertise in stonemasonry into a construction powerhouse that helped shape the community of Wilmington.
From the Alps to America
Before arriving in the United States, Ernesto DiSabatino and his sons were established master stonemasons in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Their expertise was in high demand for complex infrastructure projects. By 1905, Ernesto and his two eldest sons, Arthur and Clarence, were contributing their skills to the construction of the Simplon Tunnel, a massive engineering feat located in the Alps along the Swiss border.
The transition to America was sparked by a twist of fate. After Arthur was disqualified from army service due to a misdiagnosis of tuberculosis, he and Clarence urged their father to seek better opportunities in the United States. Despite initial hesitation, Ernesto agreed to emigrate for the benefit of his family.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Establishing Roots in Wilmington
In 1906, the DiSabatino men arrived in Wilmington, Delaware, sponsored by Luigi Pedicone in the neighborhood known as Little Italy. They immediately entered the workforce as stonemasons, enduring a grueling schedule of 12-hour days, six days a week. During this era, bricklayers earned a rate of $3 per 1,000 bricks laid.
The family reunion was completed in January 1907, when Ernesto's wife, Angela Dea, and their remaining children joined them in Wilmington. With a stable foundation and a relentless work ethic, Ernesto officially established Ernest DiSabatino and Sons in 1908, just 15 months after his arrival.
Growth and Professionalization
What began as a masonry contracting company quickly evolved. The company's core principles were built upon quality construction delivered by skilled tradesmen. In 1917, the business expanded into its first dedicated office located at 415 Lincoln Street, cementing its position as a leader in both the construction industry and the local community.
Architectural Landmarks and Community Impact
The company's portfolio includes some of the most significant landmarks in the Little Italy area. Two of their most prominent achievements occurred in the mid-1920s:
- St. Francis Hospital: Completed in 1925, this facility served the very neighborhood where Ernesto first settled.
- St. Anthony of Padua Church: Completed in 1926, this church became a landmark of Little Italy.
Ernesto's contributions extended beyond construction. In recognition of his role in erecting the church and helping start the parish, he was awarded the Papal Cross of Honor Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
The Transition of Leadership
The founding era of the company came to a close in 1932 with the passing of Ernesto DiSabatino at the age of 67. The business and its legacy of quality were passed down to his four sons: Arthur, Clarence, Dominick, and Paul, who continued the family tradition of construction excellence.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1908 in Wilmington, Delaware.
- Founding Principle: Quality construction by skilled tradesmen.
- Early Work: The Simplon Tunnel in the Alps (1905).
- Major Projects: St. Francis Hospital (1925) and St. Anthony of Padua Church (1926).
- Special Honor: Ernesto DiSabatino received the Papal Cross of Honor Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
- Early Labor Rates: Bricklayers earned $3 per 1,000 bricks laid.
| Year | Event/Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1905 | Construction of the Simplon Tunnel in the Alps |
| 1906 | Ernesto, Arthur, and Clarence emigrate to Wilmington, DE |
| 1907 | Angela Dea and remaining children arrive in Wilmington |
| 1908 | Official founding of Ernest DiSabatino and Sons |
| 1917 | Company moves to first office at 415 Lincoln Street |
| 1925 | Completion of St. Francis Hospital |
| 1926 | Completion of St. Anthony of Padua Church |
| 1932 | Death of Ernesto; leadership passes to four sons |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the DiSabatino family work before moving to America?
They were master stonemasons in the Abruzzo region of Italy and worked on the Simplon Tunnel in the Alps along the Switzerland border in 1905.
Why did the family decide to emigrate to the United States?
Arthur and Clarence encouraged their father to move after Arthur failed his army physical due to a misdiagnosis of tuberculosis, seeking better life opportunities in America.
What were the early working conditions for the DiSabatino family in Wilmington?
They worked as master stonemasons for 12 hours a day, six days a week, during a time when bricklayers were paid $3 for every 1,000 bricks laid.
What are some of the most notable buildings constructed by the company?
The company is well known for constructing St. Francis Hospital (1925) and the landmark St. Anthony of Padua Church (1926) in Little Italy.
What honor did Ernesto DiSabatino receive for his community work?
He was awarded the Papal Cross of Honor Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice for his efforts in starting the parish and erecting St. Anthony of Padua Church.
Who took over the business after Ernesto's death in 1932?
The business was left in the hands of his four sons: Arthur, Clarence, Dominick, and Paul.