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EXHIBITS: RONZONI

RONZONI "SONO BUONI"
An Immigrant Family Launches a Pasta Empire
A Song of Long Island City Industry Charms an Astorian's Heart

This is the story of an Italian immigrant family of humble beginnings that came to New York City in the 1880's and created what later would become one of the most popular brand names in America today: Ronzoni Pasta!

Not long after arriving in America, young Emanuele Ronzoni got his first job in a Manhattan macaroni factory. In 1895, with three others, he formed the Atlantic Macaroni Company. The business moved from Canal Street in Manhattan to Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City.

In 1915, Emanuele decided to strike out on his own and the first Ronzoni Macaroni Co. opened on 35th Street and Northern Boulevard. The business thrived. Emanuele's three sons, Emanuele, Jr., Angelo and Raymond joined their father. In 1950 a large modern production facility at 50-02 Northern Boulevard began operation.

By the 1970's, a third generation of Ronzonis moved into management, helping to expand the business into both new markets and new product lines (as frozen food). Although 'Ronzoni' items could be found in every locale and state from Puerto Rico to Hawaii, escalating competition from imports and food conglomerates prompted the Ronzoni's to sell the business to General Foods in 1984. The Northern Boulevard plant continued until 1998 when its then owner, the Hershey Corporation, vacated it.

The large three foot stainless steel "R" is from the former Ronzoni plant on Northern Boulevard. Since she was a little girl, Debbie Van Cura, of the G.A.H.S., could see the plant from her kitchen window.

On summer evenings through these open windows she listened with fascination to the rhythmic sounds of the great pasta machines. When she heard the building was to be demolished, Ms. Van Cura knew she had to save those big letters which represented such sweet sounds. The cooperative efforts of the construction company, Community Board 1, and the Thomas M. Quinn Funeral Home moved the letters to their new permanent home at the Greater Astoria Historical Society.

For more photos, visit the Ronzoni 'Sono Buoni' Photo Gallery below.

Are you a former employee of Ronzoni Pasta Company? How about an interesting slide lecture for your group? Al Ronzoni wants to talk to you! Contact him at (718) 777-7999 or aronzonijr@msn.com.