OUR HISTORY

 The history of The Garibaldina Society had its beginning on December 22, 1877, with the incorporation of one of the two organizations from which the present day Society evolved.  Approximately ten years later, the second Italian organization joining to become part of the present Garibaldina Society was founded.  The two organizations having somewhat the same purpose and both drawing membership from Italians of the area, functioned side-by-side as separate entities for about three decades.  On July 28, 1916, the merger of the two groups occurred and the incorporation of the newly formed Societa Garibaldina Di Mutua Beneficienza took place.   On April 15, 1966, the Society was reincorporated as a perpetual corporation in accordance with the laws of California.   Click to view The Garibaldina Society’s historic photos dating back to the early 1900s.

Also of historical significance was the establishment of the Women’s Extension Committee in 1966, which functions today as a women’s social group and whose fundraising efforts benefit The Garibaldina Society.

In 1967, construction was completed on the Society’s new 12,500 square foot building, which is its present home.  The facility hosts the Society events and includes a beautiful foyer and entry hall, full service bar and large sitting area,  very elegant and spacious banquet room, expansive dance floor, elevated stage, and a large professional kitchen.   In 1974, an annex was constructed providing enclosed bocce courts where our members have the opportunity  to play on professional courts and as well as enjoy a comfortable place to meet friends and socialize.

In 2007, Author & Historian, Marge Bitetti prominently featured The Garibaldina Society in her book Italians in Los Angeles, an informative and inspiring insight into Italian History & People in Los Angeles.  Click here to see a few of The Garibaldina Society’s historic photos included among the book’s great pictorial memories!