"When the first Italian moved to the area near Catherine Street around 1798, it was mostly forest and filed. It was considered Irishtown by the early residents. By 1852, an Italian church had been established for the community, and from the advent of mass migration beginning in 1876 grew Philadelphia's Little Italy. The original neighborhood was bound by the area from Sixth Street to Eleventh Street and Bainbridge to Federal Streets. Many of the early families-Baldi, Pinto, and Fiorella-established businesses in the area that continue today." -- From cover.

When the first Italian moved to the area near Catherine Street around 1798, it was mostly forest and field. It was considered Irishtown by the early residents. By 1852, an Italian church had been established for the community, and from the advent of mass migration beginning in 1876 grew Philadelphia’s Little Italy. The original neighborhood was bound by the area from Sixth Street to Eleventh Street and Bainbridge to Federal Streets. Many of the early families—Baldi, Pinto, and Fiorella—established businesses in the area that continue today. Other beautiful buildings still left standing are remnants of the once thriving banking industry in this little neighborhood. As time progressed, the market expanded beyond its local neighbors. Italians throughout Philadelphia developed their own Little Italy communities to the north, west, and farther south of the original boundaries.

In this keepsake book, photographer Dave Lakatos captures Philadelphia's 9th Street Italian Market in all of its color, eccentricity, and delight.

A pictorial survey of the history of the Italian presence in Philadelphia, organized by geographical areas of the city.

"C.C.A. Baldi ruled Little Italy, and everyone who wished to deal with the Italians knew it." Go back to turn of the century Philadelphia and discover the incredible immigrant success story of C.C.A. Baldi and his brothers as they build a business empire while pathing a path for the Italian community and becoming the King of Little Italy.

"Gravy wars ... humorously describ[es] the culinary competiveness that runs deep in the heart of South Philadelphia Italians. You'll laugh out loud as you read the truth about Italian traditions and superstitions. And you'll discover a slew of scrumptious original recipes that'll help you win your own kitchen competitions. Enjoy!"--