FESTA DI MARIA MONTEVERGINE EXHIBIT FEATURED AT HAVERSTRAW KING’S DAUGHTER’S LIBRARY

The grand opening of the “Festa di Maria Montevergine” was held at the Haverstraw King’s Daughter’s Library on Sunday, June 4. The exhibit is presented by Corinne McGeorge and Hudson Valley Exhibits, Inc. This celebration began in Italy in the early 1900s and was brought to this country by two brothers, Angelo and Charlie DeGiso, who lived on Warren Ave. in Haverstraw. They were born in Naples, Italy, and would travel up the mountainside to Avellino where there was a Shrine dedicated to the Blessed Mother. They continued to hold yearly celebrations after they moved to Haverstraw. Photos show parades through the village streets, processions to St. Peter’s Church, religious services at the chapel and St. Peter’s Church. They had floats, fireworks, concerts and busloads would come up from NYC and surrounding area. The Festa moved to different locations over the years but has returned to the Warren Ave chapel. They expect to hold another Festa this year. The exhibit will remain at the King’s Daughters Library for viewing through the end of June.