Embracing a Community – Fran Carpino

At just three years old, Francesca ‘Fran’ Carpino, along with her mother, sisters, and uncle immigrated to Orillia from Italy.

Photograph of the Carpino family gathered outside in Orillia, 1953.

The year was 1953, Fran and her family boarded the Saturnia to reunite with her father who had immigrated to Canada two years prior.

Who is Fran Carpino? (captions available in both FR and EN). Enjoy this video with a transcript (En)

Immigrating to a new country is incredibly challenging, but one of the best ways of bridging a cultural divide is through shared meals. When Fran reflects on her childhood in Orillia, the clearest memories are the ones centred around food.

Fran Carpino – Growing Up in Orillia (captions available in both FR and EN). Enjoy this video with a transcript (En)

She remembers her mother teaching the neighbours what “real spaghetti” was, and referring to Wonder Bread as “English Bread”. Fran’s father, in Italian tradition, would cure meat, make wine, and preserve olives for family dinners. Food is a central part of Italian culture, and became a key way for Fran’s family to honour their heritage in their new home. 

Fran Carpino – Change in Orillia (captions available in both FR and EN). Enjoy this video with a transcript (En)

…there was lots of play and outdoor activities.