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Imagine discovering that your family's story spans centuries and continents, connecting you to people and places you never knew existed. That's precisely the journey Rich Di Palma embarked upon, and he shares his remarkable experiences tracing his Italian roots in our latest episode. Rich recounts how his grandfather's Italian songs ignited a lifelong passion for genealogy, leading him to uncover long-lost relatives and delve deep into family records dating back to the 1500s. It's a testament to the power of family stories, chance encounters, and the digital age tools like Ancestry.com that bridge past and present.

Join us as Rich unfolds heartwarming tales of family reunions, serendipitous meetings, and the intricate Italian naming traditions that have persisted through his lineage. We explore how four siblings migrated to New Haven, while one remained in Italy, setting the stage for an unexpected reunion decades later. Rich's 2005 trip to Italy is filled with surprises, from chance encounters with garbage men leading to rediscovered family ties to uncovering the adventurous life of a relative who chose a ship-bound career over the priesthood.

Rich's story is not just about uncovering names on a family tree; it's a celebration of identity, cultural heritage, and the humorous anecdotes that flavor immigrant life. From navigating the challenges of securing Italian citizenship to the emotional resonance of visiting ancestral homes, Rich's journey is both inspiring and relatable. As we listen, we're reminded that the world is smaller than we think, and our histories are a tapestry of connections waiting to be unraveled. Don't miss this heartfelt exploration into the past that reminds us of the ties that bind us all.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Farmers and Nobles
Read about my research story and how to begin your family research.

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