Monthly Archives: April 2024

Lousa “Louise” Melosso 1899-1990

When Lousa “Louise” Melosso was born on June 13, 1899, in Frisanco, Pordenone, Italy, her father, Andrea, was 43, and her mother, Maddalena, was 36. She married Anibale (Annibale) Bravin on May 21, 1921 in Italy. They had three children during their marriage. She died on August 17, 1990, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, at the age of 91, and was buried there.

1899 birth

Here is a time line of Lousa’s life:

Birth: Lousa was born on June 13, 1899, in Frisanco, Pordenone, Italy, to Maddalena “Lena” Toffolo Culau, age 36, and Andrea (Andrew) Melosso, age 43.

Age 3: Her brother Angelo Selemino died on December 31, 1902, in Frisanco, Pordenone, Italy, when Lousa “Louise” “Luigia” was 3 years old.

Age 5: Her sister Albino was born on July 30, 1904, in Udine, Udine, Italy, when Lousa “Louise” “Luigia” was 5 years old.

Age 21: Lousa married Anibale (Annibale) (Pete) Bravin on May 21, 1921, when she was 21 years old. They were married in Italy.

Age 22: Her son John Andrew or Giovanni Andrea Battista was born on March 1, 1922, in Meduno, Pordenone, Italy.

Age 23: Lousa immigrated to the US on 29 Aug 1922 on the Europa. I believe she was processed at Ellis Island. She had started the voyage in Genoa, Italy on 22 Aug 1922.

This is the arriving passenger list

Age 26: Her son Louis Edward “Lou” was born on August 25, 1925, in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

Age 27: Her daughter Madeline Mary Rose or Maddalena Maria was born on December 20, 1926, in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

Age 34: Her father Andrea (Andrew) passed away on March 31, 1934, in Meduno, Pordenone, Italy, at the age of 78.

Age 62: Her sister Angela died in 1961 when Lousa “Louise” “Luigia” was 62 years old.

Age 70: Her husband Anibale (Annibale) (Pete) passed away on December 14, 1969, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, at the age of 78. They had been married 48 years.

Age 77: Her sister Tecla died on November 1, 1976, in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

This 1930 US census shows that Lousa was born in Italy – her parents were also born in Italy.
1930 US census data on Lousa
1940 US census data on Lousa

What was Frisanco, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy like when Lousa Louise was born?

The following information was generated by AI.

In 1899, Frisanco was a small village located in the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy. Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Dolomite Mountains, Frisanco was a close-knit community with a rich cultural heritage. Let’s explore what life was like in Frisanco during this time.

  1. Daily Life:In 1899, the people of Frisanco lived a simple yet fulfilling life. The village was primarily agrarian, with most residents engaged in farming and animal husbandry. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and barley. Families worked together to tend their fields and care for their livestock, ensuring a sustainable livelihood.
  2. Cultural Traditions:Frisanco was known for its vibrant cultural traditions. The people took great pride in their heritage, preserving and celebrating their unique customs. Festivals and religious processions were an integral part of village life, bringing the community together in joyous celebration. Traditional dances, music, and local cuisine were cherished, reflecting the rich tapestry of Friulian culture.
  3. Community Spirit:The people of Frisanco valued strong community bonds. Neighbors supported one another, sharing resources and lending a helping hand when needed. Social gatherings, such as weddings and baptisms, were cherished occasions for the entire village to come together and celebrate. The local church played a central role in community life, serving as a place of worship, social gathering, and a source of guidance and support.

This is a source link for Louise: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:6K9V-WFMP?cid=fs_copy