By Louise Carroll 

In 1916, Father Salvatore Marino came to Ellwood City to establish a mission for the Italian immigrants. He was the founder and the first priest of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church.

Immigrants were drawn to the area by the jobs and economic opportunities. As the town grew, so did the Italian colony and they integrated into the community as workers, business people and professionals, becoming an important part of Ellwood City.

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Source: http://www.ellwoodcityledger.com/