At the turn of the century, the hamlet of Westbury Long Island, was a village tied to the wealthy estates of Old Westbury. The North shore and the surrounding area of Old Westbury was known as the gold coast. Many Italian immigrants found employment on these estates as gardeners and landscapers.

   By 1911, two distinct areas were populated by the Italians. The community across from St. Bridgids church known as Breezy Hill, was populated by people from the village of Durazzano, Province of Benevento, not far from Naples. Another group of people from the Neapolitan villages of Saviano and Nola settled in the New Castle area. Both groups were very homesick for the traditions they left behind, especially the traditional "festa" held every year to honor the village patron saint.

   Therefore, both groups got together and decided to form a mutual aid association to aid each other in need, but mainly to celebrate the patronal feast. An argument ensued over what village patron saint should be honored. With the intervention of a wisely old Catholic cleric who suggested the festa should be held in honor of the Blessed Mother. The feast of the Madonna's Assumption was chosen, and the Maria SS Dell Assunta Society was founded. Nicola Piscitelli of Durazzano was elected president.   

   In its heyday the festa was a huge celebration giving city dwelling Italians a beautiful day to celebrate in the country air with paesani and friends. After a beautiful procession with society members dressed in colors of blue and white, all types of games and contests would follow, such as a grease pole climbing contest, sack races, and soap box derby. At nightfall one of the biggest firework displays in the country would take place, with three companies competing for a grand prize! Marcantonio's grandparents who resided in queens, never missed this feast and spoke of how much they enjoyed the day of picnicking, attending religious services, band concerts and the fabulous firework display.

   Although in a minor tone, because of the spread of suburbia, the feast is still celebrated today with the same spirit as years gone by. Today for five days people can still enjoy concerts of great Italian - Neapolitan music, delicious homemade food, a beautiful mass and procession on August 15 th.    And including, a fireworks display on Saturday night. We are now in our 97 th year. Marcantonio has been a member of this society and also the entertainment chairman since 1985.

"I look forward to our 100 th feast!!!
Envivia'a Madonna Assunta !!!"
~Marcantonio