Tony and Maria: 1935

Looks like some of windows have changed over the years but still basically the same.

I'm also guessing those rails/markers/guides surrounding the graves in 1935 were common back then? Not sure if I liked them but they are unusual (to me, anyway). I can see why the lawn manicuring wasn't the best back then.

Fascinating photo!

The second utility pole up the road is still leaning to the right. But I find it hard to believe that could be the same stick of wood, after 80 years.

I find the old cemeteries back east fascinating places to visit and photograph. Especially the ones in once "well to do" areas. I especially enjoyed visiting the cemetery where my namesake Washington Irving is buried. Just up the
road from the Headless Horseman bridge.

Antonio Castellucci, born in Colle Sannita, Benevento, Italy, November 21, 1855. The son of Giovaniangelo, a wine merchant, and Fiorinda Castellucci. Came to America in 1887 and took up residence in South Bethlehem, PA.

Antonio's first marriage was in Benevento, Italy, in 1881, to Maria Nigro, who died in 1884, without children. His second marriage was in South Bethlehem to a widow, Mary (Fanella) Salvatore, the mother of Joseph Salvatore. Three children by this second marriage: Florence, a graduate of Holy Infancy School, Class of 1912; John, a graduate of South Bethlehem Business College, Class of 1914, who then attended the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy; Anna, a graduate of South Bethlehem High School, Class of 1918.

(Find A Grave)

You won't see unique and extraordinary tombstones like this anymore since most newer cemeteries will allow only a plaque level with the ground for easier lawn maintenance. The very artistic and talented Italian immigrants who came to America in the l8th, 19th and 20th centuries could do just about anything and when I was a kid, they did all the masonry work, tile work (mosaic included), church paintings,stained glass windows, marble carving, you name it. I'm quite impressed with this stone and others in the background. The only improvement I could make on it would be if the eyes of Tony and Maria followed the viewers around the grounds. Rest in peace friends, ya done good.

An interesting and fine example of the stone carver's art. They definitely do not make them like this any more. And "sua moglie" means "his wife."

I am hoping that they had a long and happy life together.

A bit of searching finds that Tony and Maria are still ensconced at St. Michael's Cemetery in Bethlehem, just looking a bit more weathered. The grounds are considerably better-groomed now, but it seems several of their neighbors have moved out, including that rather wonderful angel at left.