LIBERTY, EQUALITY, FRATERNITY – The Order was founded in 1905 by Dr. Vincent Sellaro, its principal organizer; Giuseppe Carlino, a sculptor; Pietro Viscardi and Roberto Merlo, two barbers; Ludovico Ferrari, a pharmacist; and Antonio Marzullo, an attorney at law.
Initially, the Order worked to better the life of the early Italian immigrants by providing them with articulate leadership, responsible representation in civic matters, and economic institutions to function for its members.
Today, the Order seeks to address itself to the changing needs of its members. Scholarship grants, funded college aid and assistance programs, leadership in promoting more equitable immigration laws, intense activity in civic and local governmental programs, promoting a more positive tone in public relations to offset the rising tide of anti-defamation are part of the Order’s working programs.
The Order is an American organization, national in scope. Members are of Italian Heritage, which includes spouses, friends, relatives, and also includes those who are not of direct Italian lineage. The Order is a fraternal organization, educational, civic, social, and patriotic in character with members from all walks of life.
Our heritage gives us our common bond, but our accomplished deeds ensure the unity of Americans of Italian Heritage. We proudly set forth our aims, purposes and goals:
To promote the intellectual advancement of its members
To render financial aid to those qualified to pursue intellectual endeavors
To maintain and nurture the rich patrimony of our forefathers
To encourage activity and participation on all levels of government
To formulate and program constructive attitudes, to affirm with pride in the Italian name
To maintain programs of mutual benevolence which are founded on humanitarian needs
To promote social awareness and education so that the Order will be recognized in local communities
To constantly promote the advancement of its members
La Costa dei Fiori
Located in beautiful Encinitas, California – The Flower Capital of California – on the southern California coast above San Diego, the lodge provides a place for all persons of Italian extraction to meet, socialize and work together.
The Lodge serves as a focus where Italian/Americans living in Northern San Diego County California and their friends can come together for a variety of civic, charitable, and social activities centered upon the rich heritage of the Italian culture.
Visitors are always welcome at all of our general meetings and events. Please check the calendar for a listing of our upcoming activities. To receive additional information about the Lodge, an upcoming event, or to be put on our mailing list
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