The “Heart of Knightsville” is a film that will explore the history and the current and past state of a small historic Italian immigrant neighborhood in Cranston, Rhode Island.  On November 27, 2000, Cranston’s Mayor John O’Leary, and the mayor of Itri, Giovanni Ialongo declared a joint resolution to declare Itri, Italy, and Cranston, Rhode Island sister cities (Gemellaggio).

The neighborhood, known for its vibrant culture, close-knit families, and delicious cuisine, is facing new challenges as the world around it changes. The film will delve into the stories of hardships, determination, and accomplishments of the Itrani immigrants, their sacred traditions (including the feast of the Madonna della Civita), and detail what Knightsville was like in the 1900s. In addition to exploring the history and current state of Knightsville, the documentary will also highlight the cultural ties between the Rhode Island neighborhood and the Italian town of Itri.

Through interviews with locals and descendants of the Itrani immigrants from Itri that settled in Knightsville, one will gain a deep understanding of how the town’s culture and heritage have influenced the development and identity of Knightsville.  This will provide a unique perspective on the neighborhood’s history and its connection to its Italian roots.

The Heart of Knightsville “The Way it Was”

Trailer

An update. Tommy De Nucci has completed his first draft of "The Heart of Knightsville, The Way It Was." I am so exicted to work with Tommy. He is incredible and the best part is that he gets it. I am also thrilled that Ed Brady joined our team, another incredible person. We would like to include films or videos of the St. Mary's procession, back yard parties from years back. If any of you have films, DVD's, please contact me on Facebook, leaving your contact information. I made a promise to the Itrani immigrants in 1975, that one day I would tell their story. They gave out of their poverty with pennies, nickles and dimes so that we could have our beautiful St. Mary's Church. The completion of this film depends on the funding we receive. Let's join together in this important effort to tell our profound history in honor of the Itrani immigrants. I have also set up a fund raising account with Go Fund Me under my non-profit, Bernadette Conte Ltd.