In the 1930's and earlier South Jamaica was home to many Italian immigrant families. At the time many were from the Abruzzi and Campania region of Naples. A patriarch in the neighborhood at that time was Domenico Masi known as Zi Rumenico. Zi Rumenico would walk and visit people in the neighborhood everyday. He was also known for sporting a gold hoop earring and using an elaborately carved cane.

   One day Zi Rumenico rushed to the office of two Italian businessmen, Enrico Fazzini and Frank Casagrande. He told them about a dream of Saint Anthony that he had. He said that Saint Anthony was angry becuase the men in the community were not praying and not attending church. Also, he said that Saint Anthony requested that a society be formed in his name to celebrate his feast every year. The old mans dream was taken very seriously, and in 1941 the Santa Antonio da Padova Benevolant Association of South Jamaica was formed and registered with the state of New York.

 The feasts were held in grand style in this working class neighborhood. The feast included illumination of the streets, band concerts, and a variety of shows known as mandolinate. These shows featured legendary Italian performers such as Rio Rita, Giacomo di Giacomo and the neighborhood favorite Anna Fantasia the Neapolitan Sophie Tucker. Of course, the spiritual part was well taken care of. There was a thirteen day prayer period called a tredicina and masses both on Sunday along with the grand procession. On St. Anthony's feast day, on which in addition to the mass featured a second procession. With the decline of the Italian population in South Jamaica the Saint Anthony Association moved to Meachum Ave in Elmont, Long Island in 1970. Many Italians from South Jamaica had moved to that area, and the feast continues to be celebrated to this day.

   Enrico Fazzini was the founding president, and served as president until his passing in 1978. It was decided unanimously that the leadership of the society be passed on to his son Emidio. Emidio was elected lifetime president. To this day Emidio leads the society with great enthusiasm. His motto is that things should only get better and not decline. This year celebrates the 66th annual feast. Marcantonio is extremely proud to be a part of the festivities!