Lodge #2422 was founded as an Italian Fraternal Organization in early 1978 by Joe Franzalia and twenty-five Americans of Italian Ancestry in Northwest Florida. In a short time these charter members, under the leadership and organizational skills of Tom Bevino, decided to affiliate with the Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA). Founded in 1905, OSIA had become the largest organization of Americans of Italian heritage. The required 25 Charter Members obtained a charter as Lodge #2422 in September, 1978 and was named the Joseph B. Franzalia Lodge. It is a filial lodge of the Grand Lodge of Florida, OSIA.
For several years meetings were held in members' homes, community rooms and in facilities of other organizations. In the early 80's, real estate was located by Charter member and current President Bill Zuppa. Under the leadership of Charter members David Trapanese, Henry Steidl and Venerable Leo Tisa, the membership approved the acquisition which has, over the years, developed into an approximately 8,000 sq. ft. building with complete facilities, including ample parking and a picnic area with a bocci court.
Write a Review