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My Birth
After my birth my mother got really sick. She died sortly after. It struck my family hard.She was our caretaker when father was off at work. He had to step up and take the place. Soon poverty struck us. My father was working less and less trying to get money for us. We were soon living on the streets. My Aunt Maria took us. My father was left on the streets somewhere. We still don't know what happened to him. I have lived in Italy for 15 years. My dream is to move to America. -
Journey to Ellis Island
My father showed no hope in providing for us. At age 15 I decided to follow my dreams and move to America. My family took the news badly. They fought with me daily trying to convince me to stay. Of course I didn't listen. I bought a ticket and started my journey to America. Just to let you know, it was the worst 2 weeks of my life. -
Seeing the Statue of Liberty for the first time
Seeing the Statue of Liberty gave me a sense of freedom and pride. Her copper structure gleamed in the sun as we pulled in . I remember how her torch seemed to be made of real fire. The way the sun shined through it created the effect. It gave me a sense of hope that I would be ok here and that I belonged. -
Arriving at Ellis Island
When the immigrants on the boat saw Ellis Island through the thick fog they started screaming and hollering. The massive structure was so beautiful. The design of the building made it look like a palace. People on deck hugged and celebrated as we docked. Inside the building I went through many steps to become a citizen. After that was taking care of I realized I had no where to stay. I ended up living in the dorms on Ellis Island for a month. I got a job and know need a place to stay. -
Life in the Slums of New York
I lived on the streets for a couple of days after I moved out of the dorms on Ellis Island. I worked at a local sweatshop. I made clothing for the company. Work was hard ,but it only got me little pay. The slums was the only place I could afford with my pay. The slums was full of crime. I was very unsanitary. It was a horrible place to live ,but it still beats living on Italy. -
Marriage
My husband Charles Perlingiero was also from Italy. His family was very rich. My wedding was huge. My family since they didn't come to America with me couldn't make it. Charles family is really big. He has 9 brothers and sisters. Many married and have children. Since I didn't really have money his parents bought me a long lace wedding dress. We lived in riches with our 5 children for the rest of our lives.
