Italian Lineage and Legacy: The Nicolai Family Story

Discover how a family's quest to learn about their Italian heritage turned into a riveting multi-generational journey of exploration and discovery. Our special guest, Kimberley McLaughlin, spins a captivating tale about her husband's family lineage, which dates back to the early 20th century. As she peels back the layers of their history, we learn about Mr Salvatore Vincenzo Nicolai, a tenacious 17-year-old Italian immigrant who left his hometown in Montefiascone, Italy, in 1912. Join us as we follow his path, from his early days as a rigger to his later years as a boiler operator, and how his work ethic and dedication shaped the lives of his family generations later.

Kimberley also takes us through the crucial role of the Italian Heritage Center in Portland, Maine, in their pursuit of knowledge. It was here that the journey truly began, with Kimberley's husband's aunt Sylvia taking the bold step to delve into their ancestry. As we traverse through their family story, we're moved by tales of resilience and determination, the loss of young parents, and the strength of orphans growing up in Maine. This is not just a story about tracing one's roots, but also about community, perseverance, and the unyielding human spirit in face of adversities. Buckle up for an emotional roller-coaster ride through a family's past, and how it has shaped their present.