Denise Oneto
(February 2003 -- Benicia, CA)

From where did your family emigrate and when? Who emigrated (self, parents, grandparents) and what were their names?
My maternal father emigrated from Cascinette d'Ivrea, in Ivrea, Italy. His name was Antonio.

What led them to their destination (relatives already there, hopes of a job at a mill, mine, etc. Please explain)?
He came with his wife in hopes of work and a good life.

Did they emigrate to another location before or after (Argentina, France, England, etc.)?
Straight to California.

Did they settle among other Piemontesi and were they members of a Piemontese society (fraternal, mutual aid, etc.)?
Sort of within the Piemontesi, but there were other Italian groups in San Francisco besides.

Did your family maintain Piemontesi traditions -- language, culture, history, cuisine, etc.?
Some traditions remained … although his wife was Genovese.

Do you identify yourself more as American, Italian or Piemontese?
I identify myself as American, of Italian descent, although, when speaking with others re: Italy, I break it down further.

Have you visited your family's town(s) in Piemonte? What was your experience like?
Yes, have visited home town often. I love the area. I feel closeness to the area. I especially enjoy going to the cemeteries to see other members of family's grave sites.

Have you studied your Piemontesi genealogy? Please explain why.
No. I find it all too difficult.

Do you belong to the Piemontesi nel Mondo, Famija Piemonteis or any other organization?
No affiliation with any of the Piemontesi clubs.