State Rep. Donato Honored by Museum

Rep. Donato Among Honorees for West End Museum’s Celebration of Italian Heritage Month

West End Museum Italian Heritage Month honorees: State Representative Paul Donato of Medford, West End Museum Founder James Campano of Somerville and Philanthropist Mr. Frank Privitera of Arlington. Courtesy photo.

On October 14, 2010, Massachusetts State Representative Paul Donato was honored along with Frank Privitera and James Campano as part of the West End Museum’s celebration of Italian Heritage Month.

“This is the first time we are specifically honoring West End citizens of Italian heritage who have worked to preserve this historic part of Boston,” said Richard Hartnett, Chairman of the Museum’s Board of Directors. “These men have helped us keep the West End’s contribution to Boston alive and in the memories of all citizens. We are pleased to recognize their good work.”

Frank Privitera is a Somerville attorney and business owner, well known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been a supporter of the West End Museum since its inception and has been honored as the Man of the Year by the Society of Saints Cosmas & Damian.

James Campano is Founder and President of the West End Museum and the publisher of the West Ender, a quarterly newspaper, dedicated to keeping alive the memories and stories of the old neighborhood.

Rep. Paul Donato’s district in Medford is home to many former West Enders, including his late wife’s family.

“The Ruma’s were proud West Enders and shared countless fond memories of their experiences growing up, working, and living in the West End,” Donato said.

Opened in 1997, the West End Museum is one of only a few neighborhood museums in the city of Boston and is a center of culture and history. Its ongoing exhibit, The Last Tenement, features photos, historic wares and pieces of the neighborhood that was razed in the name of urban renewal in the late 1950’s. The museum is located at 150 Staniford St., suite 7.

Often called the “Greatest neighborhood this side of heaven,” the West End was a true Boston melting pot. Immigrants from across Europe found their way to the West End in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Author Herbert Gans wrote about the values of the neighborhood and its residents in his book, The Urban Village.

– Information from State Rep. Donato