MemorialForGilormaVictims

James Arvia, author

Tragic Past Presents Future Tribute

On November 30, 1896, a devastating landslide struck the Gilorma grain mill along the Saraceno River, just outside Alessandria del Carretto, Calabria, Italy. In an instant, eight men were swept away, including my great-uncle, buried alive by the forces of nature as they struggled to clear a blocked water supply pipeline.

Those lost are not just figures from history; they were real people whose lives were intertwined with the community of Alessandria del Carretto. Some were on the brink of adulthood, while others were respected pillars of the community. Now, it is essential to keep their memory from fading away.

That’s why I am working, in collaboration with the town’s administration, to create a permanent memorial—a place of dignity and remembrance—where descendants, visitors, and future generations can honor these brave souls.

This initiative goes beyond just stone or bronze. It's about ensuring that their names are remembered and transforming sorrow into a lasting tribute. By contributing, you are helping ensure that their stories will never be forgotten.

Help me turn this into a legacy for future generations.