Luigi Fugazy

Luigi V. Fugazzi (April 30, 1839 – August 6, 1930; anglicized as Fugazy), nicknamed Papa Fugazy, was an Italian American banker, businessman, and philanthropist who became one of the most prominent in the United States. He emigrated to the United States in 1869 and established a bank and a service company for Italians in New York City's South Village. He also established and supported many Italian mutual aid societies and fraternal organizations in the city.

Early life Luigi V. Fugazzi was born to a wealthy family in Santo Stefano d'Aveto, Liguria, on April 30, 1839. His father was a teacher in Piedmont. He married Maria Fugazzi and had six children, including the boxing promoter Humbert Fugazy.

As a result of his prominence in Italian communities in New York City, Fugazy became seen as a benevolent padrone, and The New York Times reported his nickname of "Papa Fugazy". and Gay Talese described him as "perhaps the most eminent padrone in the United States".

Civic and philanthropic activities

Fugazy became involved in New York City politics and was closely connected with Tammany Hall, acting as a liaison between the political machine and Italian communities. He also encouraged existing ones to join together in a citywide federation, rather than operating only in their specific neighborhoods.

Death Fugazy died at his home on Bleecker Street on August 6, 1930. A solemn requiem Mass was held on August 9 at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Thousands of people lined the sidewalks as his body was conveyed from his home to the church, and there were over 1,000 people in attendance inside the church. Among the dignitaries present were Congressman Fiorello La Guardia, judges and members of the city government, and the minister provincial of the Franciscan Province of the Immaculate Conception. Fugazy was buried in Calvary Cemetery in Queens. equivalent to $ in , and had more than 600 depositors.