Francesco and Rosina Orlando

After serving in the 2nd World War, Francesco Orlando immigrated to Canada and landed in Halifax in 1950. He came from Cellara Italy. His final destination was Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. He came with the same dream that millions had before and after him. Ravaged by the 2nd World War, Italy had little to offer him in the way of employment. Canada offered him hope and dreams for the future. The dream of owning a home, raising a family, and buying a car were all realized in 20 short years - something that would have been much more difficult if not impossible had he remained in his native country. Rosina, his wife, followed him with their son Antonio in November 1955 on the Queen Federica. Leaving family in Cellara was very difficult. The uncertainty of the long voyage and the fear of heading to an alien country were among the many feelings harboured. The friendly faces in Canada were a welcome sight after 10 brutal days an the North Atlantic. Rosina had one more child in 1958 in Canada. They named him Francesco (Frank) Jr. Both Francesco and Rosina became proud Canadian citizens. It was the way Francesco wanted it. Since Canada offered him a great life, he had strong positive feelings about becoming a proud Canadian. Francesco and Rosina celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1987 in their new country.

I write this today as I am overlooking Pier 21 from the Westin Hotel and sit in wonder of all the treasures and riches that came through Pier 21 in the form of men, women and children. I know that I am grateful that my parents were among those that decided to take that very big step of emigrating to Canada. I will always be grateful for their positive decision.

Antonio Orlando, 2002