Archaeology Now’s “Ciao Houston Heritage Tour” Takes Houstonians on Historic Walk on Saturday, April 6th

Houstonians will have the opportunity to take a step back in time as they explore the historic 6th Ward, a neighborhood deep in Italian culture as part

Co-sponsored by the Italian Cultural & Community Center, the walking tour will take participants on an Italian journey, introducing them to descendants of original settlers who will share their family stories. These individuals include:

  • Rosie Carrabba, a first-generation Houstonian whose family legacy is Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
  • Dan Scardino and his uncle Felix, whose family ran a grocery store in the 6th Ward
  • Anthony Mandola, whose family were early Houstonians who lived in the 6th Ward 
  • Joe Montalbano, whose family owns and operates Houston’ oldest lumber yard,  Montalbano Lumber.

The 6th Ward contains the highest concentration of Victorian homes in the city and retains much of the feel of the original district.

“Italians, primarily from Sicily, migrated to Texas directly through the port of Galveston and established settlements throughout the region, deeply influencing Houston and Texas culture,” said Becky Lao, executive director of Archaeology Now. “Our hope is that the tour will give participants a greater understanding and appreciation of Houston’s rich Italian heritage.”

The tour takes place on Saturday, April 6 at 1 p.m.  and will depart from 1600 Lubbock Street in downtown Houston.  The tour includes a coffee and gelato break and will wrap up at 5 p.m. with wine and antipasti. 

Tickets are $55 and need to be prepaid in advance. Archaeology Now members receive a $5 discount, using the code AN$5. Tickets are available by calling 713-364-6344 or at Paypal – paypal.me/houstonarchaeology.

For more information about Archaeology Now, visit www.archaeologynow.org.