September 16th General Meeting
About the Italian-American Community Organization in Denver
Charter Members & 1st Officers of Sons of Italy 1958
This photograph captures a moment from 1958 at the Shirley Savoy Hotel, showcasing the Charter Members and First Officers of the Denver Lodge 2075, a proud chapter of the Sons of Italy that celebrates Italian heritage.
In the front row from left to right, we see Chester Boselli, Judge Jim Cliso, John DiCicco, Father Tom, Joe Ciancio Jr., and Al DeCredico. The second row, arranged from right to left, includes Al Rotola, Bart Falasco, Richard Seno, Donato Feruigno, Judge Henry Santo, Al De Credico, Sonny Mapeli, De Palma, and Mike Marchese.
L’ORDINE FIGLI D’ITALIA
The Order Sons of Italy in America, originally known as “L’Ordine Figli d’Italia,” was established on June 22, 1905, by Dr. Vencenzo Sellaro and five other Italian immigrants in the Little Italy neighborhood of New York City. This organization was created during the significant Italian migration to the United States, with the goal of supporting Italian immigrants in their transition to America. The Sons of Italy aimed to assist these immigrants in becoming U.S. citizens, provide health and death benefits, offer educational opportunities, and promote Italian heritage. Today, local branches, such as Denver Lodge 2075, continue this legacy by fostering community and cultural pride among Italian Americans.
OSIA Denver Lodge 2075
They aimed to establish the Denver Lodge 2075, a club designed to unite Americans of Italian descent in the Denver area and create a brotherhood rooted in the shared values of "La Famiglia". In its early days, membership flourished with nearly 200 men initiated into the Sons of Italy. However, membership began to decline over time, leading to the welcoming of women in 1959. Membership picked up again, and elections for officers were highly competitive. Since the Denver Lodge 2075 didn’t have a permanent venue, members gathered in various locations across the Denver area, such as the Mt. Carmel School and several bank buildings.
Initial events for the Denver Lodge 2075 took place at Mt. Carmel in their gymnasium and in the Grand Ballroom at the Brown Palace. Noteworthy occasions included Columbus Day parades, festive dinners, and even a “Rocky Marciano Night.” What mattered most was the sense of community fostered among friends and family during these memorable gatherings. Throughout our history, we've organized various events that celebrate our Italian heritage, including family picnics, Carnivale dances, spaghetti dinners, Sunday activities, bocce tournaments, children's dance recitals, and much more.
OSIA Denver Lodge 2075
Throughout the years, the Denver Lodge 2075 has been actively involved in events around the community, embracing its Italian heritage. The Lodge has been a proud annual participant in the Wheat Ridge Carnation and St. Patrick’s Day parades, alongside numerous fairs, festivals, and public events. In the past, the Sons of Italy chorus, led by John and Gloria DeFrange, also performed at various local events, showcasing the Lodge's commitment to promoting Italian culture. Who can forget the many queens that represented the Lodge, contributing to a strong positive presence in the community and competing in the pageant at the Grand Lodge of California Conventions? The Lodge even sponsored sports teams, further enhancing its community ties.
Members of the Denver Lodge 2075 purchased their first building at 38th and Harlan in 1981, providing them with a permanent place to call their own for meetings and events. They also rented the hall to other organizations as a way to raise funds. Near the end of the payment terms, the interest rate was set to spike from 12% to 18%. Displeased with this increase, Anne Ciancio initiated an alternative plan to gather pledges from the membership to pay off the remaining balance. When presented to the members, the necessary funds were raised in just 10 minutes, showcasing the dedication of the community. Each member was repaid in full at the original interest rate of 12%, truly reflecting the spirit of the good of the order.
In 1983, the Denver Lodge 2075 began organizing bingo events. Initially hosted in the Lodge building, the need for a larger space led to the decision to rent a venue in a bingo hall to accommodate the growing number of players.
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OSIA Denver Lodge 2075
By 1987, bingo sessions at the Denver Lodge 2075 were bringing in an impressive $20,000 a month. The members’ hard work was truly paying off. It was this profitable endeavor that enabled the growing community of 650 members to begin their search for a larger building. Our current facility was purchased in October of 1986. Thanks to the dedication of our members, organizers managed to put down a substantial down payment on the building. After some renovation, which included removing pews and alters from the former church, a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place in May of 1987. By 1995, the Lodge was completely paid off. In 1991, we expanded the kitchen, creating a facility that would make some restaurants envious. When you look around the hall today, know that it stands as a testament to our devoted members who committed their time and resources to celebrate our Italian heritage and the values of the Sons of Italy. Also in 1995, the Grand Lodge of Colorado was formed. Since our membership had exceeded the national OSIA minimum requirement of 500 members, the Denver Lodge 2075 separated from the Grand Lodge of California to establish the Grand Lodge of Colorado.
Lodge 2075 Council
Since 1995, alongside the Denver Lodge #2075, the Grand Lodge of Colorado has embraced several other lodges, including the Southern Colorado Lodge #2738, Cristofro Colombo Lodge #1309, Cabrini Lodge #2826, Royal Gorge Lodge #2866, and Pikes Peak Lodge #2870. Our membership has varied over the years, yet we have consistently shared one common goal: to unite Americans of Italian descent and make a positive impact in the community. Since its inception, the Denver Lodge 2075 has contributed thousands of dollars to local and national charities, organized numerous events, and fostered countless friendships. What is the secret to our success? It’s simple—hard work, friendship, and determination. Like any valued relationship, being a member of the Sons of Italy requires commitment and dedication. With some sacrifice and contributions from our members, we are committed to remaining a strong and viable organization. Why not come join us!