The History of the Italian American Society of Kenosha
A Century of Culture, Community, and Connection
The Italian American Society of Kenosha has stood as a pillar of culture, fellowship, and service for more than a century. Founded in 1923, the Society has played a vital role in supporting Italian immigrants, preserving heritage, and bringing the Kenosha community together through shared traditions, food, and celebration. On November 12, 2023, the Italian American Society proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary, honoring a legacy built by generations of families whose roots run deep in Kenosha.
Italian Immigration and the Roots of Community
At the turn of the 20th century, the United States experienced a massive influx of European immigrants, including thousands of Italians seeking opportunity and stability. Many of these immigrants settled in Kenosha, where they worked, raised families, and began building a new life in a new country.
Like many immigrant communities of the era, Italian newcomers quickly organized into mutual aid societies, groups designed to provide support, financial assistance, and a sense of belonging. As these groups grew, leaders recognized the strength that could come from unity. Discussions began about combining the societies into one organization that could better serve the growing Italian population of Kenosha.
The Founding of the Italian American Society of Kenosha
On November 14, 1923, Leonardo Montemurro, Raffaele Molinaro, and Gastano Garrupa formally signed the Articles of Organization for the Italian American Society of Kenosha. Montemurro became the Society’s first president, serving until 1927.
The mission was clear: to support Italian Americans as they navigated life in a new country, to preserve Italian culture, and to provide a place of fellowship and assistance during a time when discrimination and misunderstanding were common.
Building a Home: 2217 52nd Street
As membership grew, the need for a permanent home became evident. In November 1926, construction began on the Society’s clubhouse at 2217 52nd Street. The building officially opened in 1927, and it quickly became the heart of Italian American life in Kenosha.
In its earliest days, the building was quite literally constructed by its members. Skilled tradesmen volunteered their labor, donated materials, and worked side by side to create a space that would serve generations to come.
Former Italian American President Mike Serpe, who served from 1976–1980 and again from 1984–1988, recalled one powerful example of that dedication. A member spent days hand-digging an eight-foot trench from 23rd Avenue to the back of the building so a water line could be installed, all so the club could function properly. It was an act of quiet sacrifice that reflected the spirit of the Society from the very beginning.
Growth, Leadership, and Community Impact
As Kenosha’s Italian American population expanded, so did membership in the Society. At its peak, membership reached 700 to 800 members, many of whom became business leaders, civic figures, and trusted members of the wider community.
Despite this success, Italian Americans were not immune to prejudice. For years, harmful stereotypes persisted, including unfounded associations with organized crime fueled by popular culture. Leaders like Mike Serpe were determined to confront those misconceptions head-on by ensuring the Italian American Society was known for its positive impact, not stereotypes.
The Society increased its community involvement through charitable fundraisers, public events, and support for neighbors in need. These efforts helped elevate the organization’s reputation and establish it as a respected and valued institution in Kenosha.
The Italian American Ladies Auxiliary (IALA)
An essential part of the Society’s history is the Italian American Ladies Auxiliary (IALA). Founded in 1924, the IALA grew into the largest Italian American Ladies Auxiliary in the United States, boasting more than 1,000 members in the late 1950s and over 600 members in the 1980s. Today, the IALA continues its mission with over 250 members.
For generations, the Ladies Auxiliary has supported the Italian American Society, preserved cultural traditions, and led charitable initiatives that have strengthened the Kenosha community. Their contributions remain a cornerstone of the Society’s success.
Evolving Membership and an Open Door
In its early years, membership requirements were strict, reflecting the realities of immigrant identity at the time. As generations passed and families became more integrated into American society, those rules evolved. This evolution was not without debate, particularly during leadership transitions in the 1970s, but it proved essential for the Society’s long-term vitality.
Today, the Italian American Society proudly welcomes members and non-members alike. As current and former leaders have emphasized, the Society is truly open to the public. Anyone may dine at the restaurant, book events, or celebrate life’s milestones within its walls.
Surviving COVID and Reaching 100 Years
Reaching the 100-year milestone was far from guaranteed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Society faced unprecedented challenges. The restaurant closed, events were canceled, and financial uncertainty loomed. What carried the organization through was a shared commitment to reaching its centennial.
Volunteers donated countless hours. Employees worked for tips or without pay. Leadership made difficult but strategic decisions. The collective goal of celebrating 100 years became a powerful motivator during the most challenging period in the Society’s history.
A New Era: Preservation, Growth, and Celebration
Today, it is with renewed passion that our leaders and members have embraced our current mission ‘to preserve, promote and celebrate Italian culture!
In 2025, Kenosha Italian Fest was founded, held on the Kenosha lakefront. The inaugural festival attracted thousands of attendees and celebrated Italian culture through food, music, history, faith, and community. The success of the festival helped fuel a major restaurant renovation beginning in January 2026, with plans underway to continue upgrading the ballroom while honoring the building’s historic character.
A Living Legacy
More than a century after its founding, the Italian American Society of Kenosha remains what it has always been: a place where culture is celebrated, families gather, and community comes first. From immigrant aid to weddings, funerals, festivals, and everyday meals, the Society continues to write new chapters while honoring those who came before.
