Meyersdale Republican: June 20, 1901 - p. 5
A Fight to a Finish.
Last week the firm of Dondero & Damico, the Italian fruit dealers of this city, received a large consignment of tropical fruits from the seaboard. While cutting bananas from an extraordinary large and perfect bunch, they discovered a very large West India spider, a specie of the tarantula family, snugly esconsed within the bunch. Soon as discovered the fierce insect asserted its nature and antagonized every effort of capture. It was taken, however, and made captive in a large fruit jar and turned over to F.B. Thomas & Bro., the druggists, who exhibited it a few days in their window. Friday evening, in a trap in the cellar, they capture a half grown rodent, and placed it in the jar with the spider. The rat was not inside a second before the spider sprang upon it and undoubtedly gave it a deadly sting, which enraged the rat, and two engaged in a deadly combat, which last for full two minutes. The battle ground was small; there was no space for retreat by either of the antagonists, and it would be hard to tell which fought the fiercest. The rat, insanely infuriated by the sting, fought desperately and succeeded in killing the spider, but the inoculation of the deadly venom of the spider proved the deadliness of the spider's sting, and the intense agony of the rodent was relieved by an administration of chloroform.
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Meyersdale Republican: October 29, 1903 - p. 1
Firms Consolidates
The well known fruit firms of Lui Dondero, who has conducted a retail fruit store in this city for several years, and the Damico Fruit company, wholesale dealers in the same line of goods have consolidated their interests. They will still continue the two places of business and will wholesale and retail as in the past. The officers of the new company are: Gus. Damico, president; Lui Dondero, vice-president; Charles Damico, treasurer; Julius Spinetta, secretary. The new firm will take the name of the Damico Fruit company, and as the gentlemen interested are all hustlers they should make a success, as both of the old firms have been very successful.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: December 20 & 27, 1906 - p. 7
Meyersdale for years has enjoyed the distinction of having numbered among her varied business interests the most enterprising and progressive wholesale fruit establishment in Somerset county. He firm is known as the Damico Fruit Company, and is composed of two brothers – Gus Damico, president, and Charles Damico, secretary and treasurer. The firm occupy quarters in the Collins Block on Centre street, which they use as their retail salesroom and office, while the bulk of their stock is stored in several large warerooms located in various parts of town. Besides being hustlers of in their line, they are thoroughly versed in every detail that enters into the successful, proper and honorable conduct of their business, and have thus succeeded admirably in winning the confidence and esteem of their large army of patrons who appreciate their efforts to please. Fruits and vegetables in season are bought direct from the growers or large jobbers and shipped here in car lots, and in turn distributed in the retail trade in southern Somerset county, this state, as well as the northern portion of our southern neighbor, Garrett county, Maryland.
During their business existence here this firm has succeeded in building up and holding an admirable wholesale trade, and there certainly must be some advantages or inducements held out to the retail trade in order to make possible the giant business strides this well known firm has taken during the past few years. Local retailers prefer dealing with them for the very good reason that they can at all times secure more satisfactory goods in vastly better condition and at better prices than they can secure the same goods from jobbers in the eastern cities. Being trained and expert in their line the slightest defects in the fruits and vegetables are quickly discerned by them, and as quickly condemned, so that their chief pride lies in always supplying their customers with the best and choicest goods to be secured in any market in the world.
At their retail market the most exacting connoisseurs can at all times be supplied with the choicest the markets affords. To the average winter-ridden mortal it is refreshing, if not comforting and consoling, to pass by their market when mercury is hovering close to the zero mark and the wind is blowing a gale, to feast one’s eyes upon plumb and luscious cucumbers and tomatoes fresh from the vine, together with radishes, onions, lettuce, etc. It serves to bring back very forcibly sweet and tender recollections of the “good old summer time.”
The Damico Brothers are classed among our most respected, thrifty citizens, and evince unusual interest in the welfare and progress of their adopted town, and they have many friends who note with genuine pleasure their substantial business prosperity. Each owns a home nicely situated, and adjoining each other, on Salisbury street, at its intersection with Meyers Avenue extension, which is one of this city’s most desirable residence portions. Both are genial, affable gentlemen, courteous and upright in all their business transactions. More power to them.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Feb. 18, 1909 - p. 4
To the Public.
We are continually asked to supply to the trade our imported Macaroni but could not on account of the limited supply coming to this country. We are now glad to announce to the public that we are receiving a shipment on Friday and from this time on will furnish to our customers at 15 cents per pound. This product is manufactured in our home town, Termini, Sicily. We solicit your trial order. We also sell imported Olive Oil and will guarantee it to be of the highest quality. THe price of the Oil will be 85 cents per quart. Owing to the earthquake in Messina and dry weather the price of the Oil has advanced 60 cents per gallon.
- DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sep. 9, 1909 - p. 4
Gus Damico, president of the Damico Fruit company, a popular wholesale and retail mercantile concern of this city, left on Saturday for a few days' well earned vacation at Niagara Falls and Toronto.
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Meyersdale Republican: June 9, 1910 - p. 5
DAMICO BROTHERS DISSOLVE
Charles Retires From Old Firm and Will Engage in Fruit Business for Himself
As will be noted in another column, the partnership heretofore existing between the Damico brothers, Gus and Charles, under the title of the Damico Fruit Company, has been dissolved, Charles Damico retiring, while his brother will continue the business at the old stand. Charles Damico, after a brief rest, intends to embark in the wholesale and retail fruit business on his own account in Meyersdale. He feels run down in health and needs a good rest, but thinks he will be ready for business again after the Fourth of July. The Damicos have built up a fine trade in Meyersdale and enjoy an enviable reputation for fair dealing. The younger brother's many friends will be glad to know that he does not intend to leave Meyersdale, but that he will again engage in business here. Mr. Damico came to America from Sicily in the fall of 1892. In the following year he went into business at Chattanooga, Tenn., and has since conducted fruit stores in Huntington and Parkersburg, W.Va.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Baltimore, Frostburg and Lonaconing, Md., and has now been located in Meyersdale for eight years. He has excellent testimonials from business men in various places where he has been located, all testifying to his integrity and fair dealing. His genial and friendly disposition make him well liked personally, and when he starts in business again on his own account, he will doubtless be favored with a good share of the trade.
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Meyersdale Republican: Jun. 16, 1910 - p. 2
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore subsisting between Gus Damico and Charles Damico, under the firm name of THE DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY, was dissolved on the 7th day of June, 1910, by mutual consent. All debts owing to said partnership are receivable by said Gus Damico, to whom also all claims and demands against the same are to be presented for payment. The said business being continued under the same name by Gus Damico.
GUS DAMICO,
CHARLES DAMICO.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: March 7, 1912 - p. 5
PECULIAR CAUSE OF DEATH.
Dr. Lichty Tells of Strange Case of Man Killed by a Rubber Inkstand Through Lingual Mistake.
At the pre-lenten supper given by Gus Damico to a company of his business friends, Dr. Bruce Lichty told a story on his host that illustrated the difficulties that some of our newly arrived foreign citizens have in making themselves understood in the lingo of Uncle Sam.
Dr. Lichty said that soon after his arrival in Meyersdale Mr. Damico came to him for physical examination for life insurance. Among the questions Mr. Damico had to answer was at what age did his father die and what was the cause of his demise. Signor Damico answered in his best English, recently acquired, and Dr. Lichty set down the cause of death as he understood it, to write: "Killed by rubber inkstand."
The application was forwarded to the headquarters of the insurance company in New York and a week later the doctor received a letter from the chief medical examiner, asking for particulars in regard to the manner in which the elder Damico got "killed by a rubber inkstand."
Dr. Lichty had some curiosity himself as to this remarkable cause of death, so he called upon Mr. Damico to explain. In the mean time Gus's English accent had improved and when he was asked to elucidate the fatal rubber inkstand incident, he broke into a loud guffaw and said:
"My pater he no getta kill bya da rubber inkstand. Robbers come to getta his mon. He refuse to giva robbers da mon. Robbers desperate, killa heem quick. Killed by robbers instantly; not killed by rubber inkstand. Sabe?"
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sept. 20, 1917 - p. 8
PROPOSES THANKSGIVING CONCERT FOR RED CROSS.
Signor Gus Damico, called by some the Caruso of Meyersdale, wants to do his "bit" for humanity and his adopted country by getting up a musical entertainment for the benefit of the American Red Cross to be given on Thanksgiving day. Mr. Damico can think of no more appropriate manner of observing Thanksgiving this year than by liberal giving to the Red Cross, and it is none too early, he thinks, to begin preparing for the event. WHen it comes to selling tickets for any charitable entertainment, there is no onecan sell more than Mr. Damico. He is also always a liberal patron himself of all worthy charities and when it comes to vocalizing, Gus is there too with the goods. The Republican hopes his efforts to raise a big Thanksgiving donation for the Red Cross will meet with hearty cooperation.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: January 12, 1922 - p. 1
OLD NANCY GONE TO HORSE HEAVEN
Gus Damico's Faithful Old White Mare Ushered into Equine Paradise.
Nancy, the faithful old white mare that gave Gus Damico over 21 years' of service, and that was dearer to her owner than the apple of his eye, has gone to horse heaven. Nancy passed on to the Elysian fields on Wednesday evening, being started on her journey to the equine paradise by Chief of Police John Smith who brought her earthly career to a close by firing a bullet into her head. The shooting was done by request as an act of mercy, as Nancy was paralyzed in her hind quarters and could not longer rise in her stall.
Nancy was nine years old when Mr. Damico bought her in September, 1900. She was therefore over 30 years of age and worked in harness as late as last Saturday. She was the best horse Mr. Damico ever owned and outlived and outworked four other younger and higher-priced horses during the time that Mr. Damico owned her. She could pull a bigger load than any other horse of her size and weight in Meyersdale, and she possessed almost human intelligence and sagacity. She was so gentle that Mr. Damico's son Frank began driving her when he was only four years old, and from that time on she and the boy were inseparable companions and she would respond readily to his commands than those of any other person. In fact little Frank was almost the only person she would hearken to in her old age.
Old Nancy hauled her last load of rubbish to the dump last Saturday. On Monday she was found down in her stall and unable to rise. On Tuesday she was assisted to her feet, but soon went down again and on investigation it was discovered that her hind quarters were paralyzed. Mr. Damico resorted to every remedy known to veterinary science to restore the health of his faithful nag, but it soon became apparent that the infirmities of age had overcome her and that her days were numbered. Finally to put her out of her misery, Chief Smith was requested to give her a quick pass to horse heaven.
Old Nancy, standing patiently in front of the Damico Fruit Co. store, was a familiar sight to all Meyersdale residents. To the Damico household she was a member of the family, and Signor Damico, his wife and children were all moved to tears when Chief Smith dispatched the old mare white mare to her last resting place.
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Meyersdale Republican: February 12, 1925
DEATH AND FUNERAL OF GUS DAMICO
Obsequies of Popular Citzen Attended by Many Mouning Friends
The entire community was greatly shocked when the news was learned that Gus Damico had passed suddenly away last Thursday evening. Although a great many people knew he had been ailing for a few weeks no one anticipated that his illness would end in death.
Several weeks ago Mr. Damico was confined to his home with the grip, but had recovered sufficiently to attend to his business for a few days, but suffered a relapse which seemed to affect his heart, somewhat, and he was confined to home for over a week before the end came. His condition was not considered critical at any time, but a sudden change came on Thursday evening, and he expired in a few minutes in his wife's arms.
His daughter, Mrs. Charles Fallon, had been acting as nurse during his sickness, and on Thursday evening. she had prepared him for the night, and then, not being very well herself, left her father's house to go to her own home for the night. Just as she entered her door the phone rang, and she was prostated over the word that her father died while she was on the way home.
Agostino F.P. D'Amico (familiarly called "Gus Damico") was born in Termini Imerese, Sicily, April 11, 1869, and was therefore nearly 56 years of age. He came to this country about 35 years ago, being followed in a few years by his brother Charles, and together they engaged in the fruit business in various cities, finally coming to Meyersdale and going into the wholesale and retail fruit business here. Some years ago the brother dissolved partnership, since the which time each conducted his own wholesale business, both brothers prospering and accumulating considerable local real estate.
"Gus" D'Amico was one of the best known and well liked business men of Meyersdale, being of a jovial, generous disposition and making friends among all classes. He was honest in all his dealings and had the confidence and respect of the entire business community.
He was well educated, and was gifted with a pleasing voice, and for many years sang solos in the choir of SS. Philip and James Catholic church. He was always anxious that his children should have every advantage and sent them to college each in turn, besides sending them to Cumberland to take music lessons year after year, until they were ready to start out for themselves. There remain two daughter who will graduate from Seton Hill College next summer, and one young son who is not yet of college age, but for whom his father had many brilliant plans. He was always a devoted husband and father, and although strict in many ways, so that his children learned obedience, they were his loving pride, and they rewarded his concern for them with affectionate respect for their father.
Mr. D'Amico was married twice. His first wife died about 19 years ago, leaving five young daughters. After a few years he married a young lady he had known in Sicily who came to this country at his solicitation, and mothered his daughters, besides bringing him another daughter and a son.
He is survived by his wife and the following children: Mrs. Charles Fallon, Meyersdale; Mrs. Joseph Michiche, Baltimore, Md.; Miss Margaret D'Amico, employed by the government at Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Nat Lacavera, Meyersdale; Misses Mamie and Ignatia D'Amico, students at Seton Hill College, Greensburg, Pa., and Frank, at home. One brother, Charles Damico, of Meyersdale, also survives.
The funeral was held Monday morning at 9 o'clock in SS. Philip and James Catholic Church, where requiem high mass was celebrated by Father Gallagher of Somerset, in place of Rt. Rev. Father J.H. Brady, the pastor, who was taken suddenly ill before the funeral.
It was one of the largest funerals Meyersdale has known for some time. The floral tributes were numerous and beautiful, being nearly all set pieces, many of them from friends in Eastern cities. The pall-bearers were E.C. Hostetler, R.D. Pfahler, F.B. Thomas, George Logue, James B. Slicer, Harry Baldwin, F.P. Hare and George W. Collins, Jr. During the hours of the services nearly all the business houses were closed. The interment was made in the Catholic cemetery, in charge of Undertaker J. F. Reich.
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Meyersdale Republican: April 16, 1925 - p. 1
BODY OF GUS DAMICO TAKEN UP AND REBURIED
The body of Gus Damico which was interred in the Catholic cemetery, Feb. 9th, was taken up on Wednesday, April 15th, and re-buried in another lot in the same cemetery, which Mrs. Damico recently purchased. Undertaker J.F. Reich and John W. Cross of the Clark Grave Vault Co. of Columbus, O., superintended the disinterment and reburial. Mr. Damico was buried in a Clark steel vault. and when it was opened not a speck of rust nor sign of decay of any kind was noticeable in the contents of the vault. Not a drop of moisture had penetrated the vault. The body and features of the deceased were as life-like as on the day of burial. Mr. Cross pronounced it one of the best jobs of embalming he had ever seen, a compliment which Mr. Reich appreciated. The reinterment also demonstrated the water proof and rustproof qualities of the Clark grave vault.
A Fight to a Finish.
Last week the firm of Dondero & Damico, the Italian fruit dealers of this city, received a large consignment of tropical fruits from the seaboard. While cutting bananas from an extraordinary large and perfect bunch, they discovered a very large West India spider, a specie of the tarantula family, snugly esconsed within the bunch. Soon as discovered the fierce insect asserted its nature and antagonized every effort of capture. It was taken, however, and made captive in a large fruit jar and turned over to F.B. Thomas & Bro., the druggists, who exhibited it a few days in their window. Friday evening, in a trap in the cellar, they capture a half grown rodent, and placed it in the jar with the spider. The rat was not inside a second before the spider sprang upon it and undoubtedly gave it a deadly sting, which enraged the rat, and two engaged in a deadly combat, which last for full two minutes. The battle ground was small; there was no space for retreat by either of the antagonists, and it would be hard to tell which fought the fiercest. The rat, insanely infuriated by the sting, fought desperately and succeeded in killing the spider, but the inoculation of the deadly venom of the spider proved the deadliness of the spider's sting, and the intense agony of the rodent was relieved by an administration of chloroform.
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Meyersdale Republican: October 29, 1903 - p. 1
Firms Consolidates
The well known fruit firms of Lui Dondero, who has conducted a retail fruit store in this city for several years, and the Damico Fruit company, wholesale dealers in the same line of goods have consolidated their interests. They will still continue the two places of business and will wholesale and retail as in the past. The officers of the new company are: Gus. Damico, president; Lui Dondero, vice-president; Charles Damico, treasurer; Julius Spinetta, secretary. The new firm will take the name of the Damico Fruit company, and as the gentlemen interested are all hustlers they should make a success, as both of the old firms have been very successful.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: December 20 & 27, 1906 - p. 7
Meyersdale for years has enjoyed the distinction of having numbered among her varied business interests the most enterprising and progressive wholesale fruit establishment in Somerset county. He firm is known as the Damico Fruit Company, and is composed of two brothers – Gus Damico, president, and Charles Damico, secretary and treasurer. The firm occupy quarters in the Collins Block on Centre street, which they use as their retail salesroom and office, while the bulk of their stock is stored in several large warerooms located in various parts of town. Besides being hustlers of in their line, they are thoroughly versed in every detail that enters into the successful, proper and honorable conduct of their business, and have thus succeeded admirably in winning the confidence and esteem of their large army of patrons who appreciate their efforts to please. Fruits and vegetables in season are bought direct from the growers or large jobbers and shipped here in car lots, and in turn distributed in the retail trade in southern Somerset county, this state, as well as the northern portion of our southern neighbor, Garrett county, Maryland.
During their business existence here this firm has succeeded in building up and holding an admirable wholesale trade, and there certainly must be some advantages or inducements held out to the retail trade in order to make possible the giant business strides this well known firm has taken during the past few years. Local retailers prefer dealing with them for the very good reason that they can at all times secure more satisfactory goods in vastly better condition and at better prices than they can secure the same goods from jobbers in the eastern cities. Being trained and expert in their line the slightest defects in the fruits and vegetables are quickly discerned by them, and as quickly condemned, so that their chief pride lies in always supplying their customers with the best and choicest goods to be secured in any market in the world.
At their retail market the most exacting connoisseurs can at all times be supplied with the choicest the markets affords. To the average winter-ridden mortal it is refreshing, if not comforting and consoling, to pass by their market when mercury is hovering close to the zero mark and the wind is blowing a gale, to feast one’s eyes upon plumb and luscious cucumbers and tomatoes fresh from the vine, together with radishes, onions, lettuce, etc. It serves to bring back very forcibly sweet and tender recollections of the “good old summer time.”
The Damico Brothers are classed among our most respected, thrifty citizens, and evince unusual interest in the welfare and progress of their adopted town, and they have many friends who note with genuine pleasure their substantial business prosperity. Each owns a home nicely situated, and adjoining each other, on Salisbury street, at its intersection with Meyers Avenue extension, which is one of this city’s most desirable residence portions. Both are genial, affable gentlemen, courteous and upright in all their business transactions. More power to them.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Feb. 18, 1909 - p. 4
To the Public.
We are continually asked to supply to the trade our imported Macaroni but could not on account of the limited supply coming to this country. We are now glad to announce to the public that we are receiving a shipment on Friday and from this time on will furnish to our customers at 15 cents per pound. This product is manufactured in our home town, Termini, Sicily. We solicit your trial order. We also sell imported Olive Oil and will guarantee it to be of the highest quality. THe price of the Oil will be 85 cents per quart. Owing to the earthquake in Messina and dry weather the price of the Oil has advanced 60 cents per gallon.
- DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sep. 9, 1909 - p. 4
Gus Damico, president of the Damico Fruit company, a popular wholesale and retail mercantile concern of this city, left on Saturday for a few days' well earned vacation at Niagara Falls and Toronto.
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Meyersdale Republican: June 9, 1910 - p. 5
DAMICO BROTHERS DISSOLVE
Charles Retires From Old Firm and Will Engage in Fruit Business for Himself
As will be noted in another column, the partnership heretofore existing between the Damico brothers, Gus and Charles, under the title of the Damico Fruit Company, has been dissolved, Charles Damico retiring, while his brother will continue the business at the old stand. Charles Damico, after a brief rest, intends to embark in the wholesale and retail fruit business on his own account in Meyersdale. He feels run down in health and needs a good rest, but thinks he will be ready for business again after the Fourth of July. The Damicos have built up a fine trade in Meyersdale and enjoy an enviable reputation for fair dealing. The younger brother's many friends will be glad to know that he does not intend to leave Meyersdale, but that he will again engage in business here. Mr. Damico came to America from Sicily in the fall of 1892. In the following year he went into business at Chattanooga, Tenn., and has since conducted fruit stores in Huntington and Parkersburg, W.Va.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Baltimore, Frostburg and Lonaconing, Md., and has now been located in Meyersdale for eight years. He has excellent testimonials from business men in various places where he has been located, all testifying to his integrity and fair dealing. His genial and friendly disposition make him well liked personally, and when he starts in business again on his own account, he will doubtless be favored with a good share of the trade.
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Meyersdale Republican: Jun. 16, 1910 - p. 2
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore subsisting between Gus Damico and Charles Damico, under the firm name of THE DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY, was dissolved on the 7th day of June, 1910, by mutual consent. All debts owing to said partnership are receivable by said Gus Damico, to whom also all claims and demands against the same are to be presented for payment. The said business being continued under the same name by Gus Damico.
GUS DAMICO,
CHARLES DAMICO.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: March 7, 1912 - p. 5
PECULIAR CAUSE OF DEATH.
Dr. Lichty Tells of Strange Case of Man Killed by a Rubber Inkstand Through Lingual Mistake.
At the pre-lenten supper given by Gus Damico to a company of his business friends, Dr. Bruce Lichty told a story on his host that illustrated the difficulties that some of our newly arrived foreign citizens have in making themselves understood in the lingo of Uncle Sam.
Dr. Lichty said that soon after his arrival in Meyersdale Mr. Damico came to him for physical examination for life insurance. Among the questions Mr. Damico had to answer was at what age did his father die and what was the cause of his demise. Signor Damico answered in his best English, recently acquired, and Dr. Lichty set down the cause of death as he understood it, to write: "Killed by rubber inkstand."
The application was forwarded to the headquarters of the insurance company in New York and a week later the doctor received a letter from the chief medical examiner, asking for particulars in regard to the manner in which the elder Damico got "killed by a rubber inkstand."
Dr. Lichty had some curiosity himself as to this remarkable cause of death, so he called upon Mr. Damico to explain. In the mean time Gus's English accent had improved and when he was asked to elucidate the fatal rubber inkstand incident, he broke into a loud guffaw and said:
"My pater he no getta kill bya da rubber inkstand. Robbers come to getta his mon. He refuse to giva robbers da mon. Robbers desperate, killa heem quick. Killed by robbers instantly; not killed by rubber inkstand. Sabe?"
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sept. 20, 1917 - p. 8
PROPOSES THANKSGIVING CONCERT FOR RED CROSS.
Signor Gus Damico, called by some the Caruso of Meyersdale, wants to do his "bit" for humanity and his adopted country by getting up a musical entertainment for the benefit of the American Red Cross to be given on Thanksgiving day. Mr. Damico can think of no more appropriate manner of observing Thanksgiving this year than by liberal giving to the Red Cross, and it is none too early, he thinks, to begin preparing for the event. WHen it comes to selling tickets for any charitable entertainment, there is no onecan sell more than Mr. Damico. He is also always a liberal patron himself of all worthy charities and when it comes to vocalizing, Gus is there too with the goods. The Republican hopes his efforts to raise a big Thanksgiving donation for the Red Cross will meet with hearty cooperation.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: January 12, 1922 - p. 1
OLD NANCY GONE TO HORSE HEAVEN
Gus Damico's Faithful Old White Mare Ushered into Equine Paradise.
Nancy, the faithful old white mare that gave Gus Damico over 21 years' of service, and that was dearer to her owner than the apple of his eye, has gone to horse heaven. Nancy passed on to the Elysian fields on Wednesday evening, being started on her journey to the equine paradise by Chief of Police John Smith who brought her earthly career to a close by firing a bullet into her head. The shooting was done by request as an act of mercy, as Nancy was paralyzed in her hind quarters and could not longer rise in her stall.
Nancy was nine years old when Mr. Damico bought her in September, 1900. She was therefore over 30 years of age and worked in harness as late as last Saturday. She was the best horse Mr. Damico ever owned and outlived and outworked four other younger and higher-priced horses during the time that Mr. Damico owned her. She could pull a bigger load than any other horse of her size and weight in Meyersdale, and she possessed almost human intelligence and sagacity. She was so gentle that Mr. Damico's son Frank began driving her when he was only four years old, and from that time on she and the boy were inseparable companions and she would respond readily to his commands than those of any other person. In fact little Frank was almost the only person she would hearken to in her old age.
Old Nancy hauled her last load of rubbish to the dump last Saturday. On Monday she was found down in her stall and unable to rise. On Tuesday she was assisted to her feet, but soon went down again and on investigation it was discovered that her hind quarters were paralyzed. Mr. Damico resorted to every remedy known to veterinary science to restore the health of his faithful nag, but it soon became apparent that the infirmities of age had overcome her and that her days were numbered. Finally to put her out of her misery, Chief Smith was requested to give her a quick pass to horse heaven.
Old Nancy, standing patiently in front of the Damico Fruit Co. store, was a familiar sight to all Meyersdale residents. To the Damico household she was a member of the family, and Signor Damico, his wife and children were all moved to tears when Chief Smith dispatched the old mare white mare to her last resting place.
_________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: February 12, 1925
DEATH AND FUNERAL OF GUS DAMICO
Obsequies of Popular Citzen Attended by Many Mouning Friends
The entire community was greatly shocked when the news was learned that Gus Damico had passed suddenly away last Thursday evening. Although a great many people knew he had been ailing for a few weeks no one anticipated that his illness would end in death.
Several weeks ago Mr. Damico was confined to his home with the grip, but had recovered sufficiently to attend to his business for a few days, but suffered a relapse which seemed to affect his heart, somewhat, and he was confined to home for over a week before the end came. His condition was not considered critical at any time, but a sudden change came on Thursday evening, and he expired in a few minutes in his wife's arms.
His daughter, Mrs. Charles Fallon, had been acting as nurse during his sickness, and on Thursday evening. she had prepared him for the night, and then, not being very well herself, left her father's house to go to her own home for the night. Just as she entered her door the phone rang, and she was prostated over the word that her father died while she was on the way home.
Agostino F.P. D'Amico (familiarly called "Gus Damico") was born in Termini Imerese, Sicily, April 11, 1869, and was therefore nearly 56 years of age. He came to this country about 35 years ago, being followed in a few years by his brother Charles, and together they engaged in the fruit business in various cities, finally coming to Meyersdale and going into the wholesale and retail fruit business here. Some years ago the brother dissolved partnership, since the which time each conducted his own wholesale business, both brothers prospering and accumulating considerable local real estate.
"Gus" D'Amico was one of the best known and well liked business men of Meyersdale, being of a jovial, generous disposition and making friends among all classes. He was honest in all his dealings and had the confidence and respect of the entire business community.
He was well educated, and was gifted with a pleasing voice, and for many years sang solos in the choir of SS. Philip and James Catholic church. He was always anxious that his children should have every advantage and sent them to college each in turn, besides sending them to Cumberland to take music lessons year after year, until they were ready to start out for themselves. There remain two daughter who will graduate from Seton Hill College next summer, and one young son who is not yet of college age, but for whom his father had many brilliant plans. He was always a devoted husband and father, and although strict in many ways, so that his children learned obedience, they were his loving pride, and they rewarded his concern for them with affectionate respect for their father.
Mr. D'Amico was married twice. His first wife died about 19 years ago, leaving five young daughters. After a few years he married a young lady he had known in Sicily who came to this country at his solicitation, and mothered his daughters, besides bringing him another daughter and a son.
He is survived by his wife and the following children: Mrs. Charles Fallon, Meyersdale; Mrs. Joseph Michiche, Baltimore, Md.; Miss Margaret D'Amico, employed by the government at Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Nat Lacavera, Meyersdale; Misses Mamie and Ignatia D'Amico, students at Seton Hill College, Greensburg, Pa., and Frank, at home. One brother, Charles Damico, of Meyersdale, also survives.
The funeral was held Monday morning at 9 o'clock in SS. Philip and James Catholic Church, where requiem high mass was celebrated by Father Gallagher of Somerset, in place of Rt. Rev. Father J.H. Brady, the pastor, who was taken suddenly ill before the funeral.
It was one of the largest funerals Meyersdale has known for some time. The floral tributes were numerous and beautiful, being nearly all set pieces, many of them from friends in Eastern cities. The pall-bearers were E.C. Hostetler, R.D. Pfahler, F.B. Thomas, George Logue, James B. Slicer, Harry Baldwin, F.P. Hare and George W. Collins, Jr. During the hours of the services nearly all the business houses were closed. The interment was made in the Catholic cemetery, in charge of Undertaker J. F. Reich.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: April 16, 1925 - p. 1
BODY OF GUS DAMICO TAKEN UP AND REBURIED
The body of Gus Damico which was interred in the Catholic cemetery, Feb. 9th, was taken up on Wednesday, April 15th, and re-buried in another lot in the same cemetery, which Mrs. Damico recently purchased. Undertaker J.F. Reich and John W. Cross of the Clark Grave Vault Co. of Columbus, O., superintended the disinterment and reburial. Mr. Damico was buried in a Clark steel vault. and when it was opened not a speck of rust nor sign of decay of any kind was noticeable in the contents of the vault. Not a drop of moisture had penetrated the vault. The body and features of the deceased were as life-like as on the day of burial. Mr. Cross pronounced it one of the best jobs of embalming he had ever seen, a compliment which Mr. Reich appreciated. The reinterment also demonstrated the water proof and rustproof qualities of the Clark grave vault.
Meyersdale Republican: June 20, 1901 - p. 5
A Fight to a Finish.
Last week the firm of Dondero & Damico, the Italian fruit dealers of this city, received a large consignment of tropical fruits from the seaboard. While cutting bananas from an extraordinary large and perfect bunch, they discovered a very large West India spider, a specie of the tarantula family, snugly esconsed within the bunch. Soon as discovered the fierce insect asserted its nature and antagonized every effort of capture. It was taken, however, and made captive in a large fruit jar and turned over to F.B. Thomas & Bro., the druggists, who exhibited it a few days in their window. Friday evening, in a trap in the cellar, they capture a half grown rodent, and placed it in the jar with the spider. The rat was not inside a second before the spider sprang upon it and undoubtedly gave it a deadly sting, which enraged the rat, and two engaged in a deadly combat, which last for full two minutes. The battle ground was small; there was no space for retreat by either of the antagonists, and it would be hard to tell which fought the fiercest. The rat, insanely infuriated by the sting, fought desperately and succeeded in killing the spider, but the inoculation of the deadly venom of the spider proved the deadliness of the spider's sting, and the intense agony of the rodent was relieved by an administration of chloroform.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: October 29, 1903 - p. 1
Firms Consolidates
The well known fruit firms of Lui Dondero, who has conducted a retail fruit store in this city for several years, and the Damico Fruit company, wholesale dealers in the same line of goods have consolidated their interests. They will still continue the two places of business and will wholesale and retail as in the past. The officers of the new company are: Gus. Damico, president; Lui Dondero, vice-president; Charles Damico, treasurer; Julius Spinetta, secretary. The new firm will take the name of the Damico Fruit company, and as the gentlemen interested are all hustlers they should make a success, as both of the old firms have been very successful.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: December 20 & 27, 1906 - p. 7
Meyersdale for years has enjoyed the distinction of having numbered among her varied business interests the most enterprising and progressive wholesale fruit establishment in Somerset county. He firm is known as the Damico Fruit Company, and is composed of two brothers – Gus Damico, president, and Charles Damico, secretary and treasurer. The firm occupy quarters in the Collins Block on Centre street, which they use as their retail salesroom and office, while the bulk of their stock is stored in several large warerooms located in various parts of town. Besides being hustlers of in their line, they are thoroughly versed in every detail that enters into the successful, proper and honorable conduct of their business, and have thus succeeded admirably in winning the confidence and esteem of their large army of patrons who appreciate their efforts to please. Fruits and vegetables in season are bought direct from the growers or large jobbers and shipped here in car lots, and in turn distributed in the retail trade in southern Somerset county, this state, as well as the northern portion of our southern neighbor, Garrett county, Maryland.
During their business existence here this firm has succeeded in building up and holding an admirable wholesale trade, and there certainly must be some advantages or inducements held out to the retail trade in order to make possible the giant business strides this well known firm has taken during the past few years. Local retailers prefer dealing with them for the very good reason that they can at all times secure more satisfactory goods in vastly better condition and at better prices than they can secure the same goods from jobbers in the eastern cities. Being trained and expert in their line the slightest defects in the fruits and vegetables are quickly discerned by them, and as quickly condemned, so that their chief pride lies in always supplying their customers with the best and choicest goods to be secured in any market in the world.
At their retail market the most exacting connoisseurs can at all times be supplied with the choicest the markets affords. To the average winter-ridden mortal it is refreshing, if not comforting and consoling, to pass by their market when mercury is hovering close to the zero mark and the wind is blowing a gale, to feast one’s eyes upon plumb and luscious cucumbers and tomatoes fresh from the vine, together with radishes, onions, lettuce, etc. It serves to bring back very forcibly sweet and tender recollections of the “good old summer time.”
The Damico Brothers are classed among our most respected, thrifty citizens, and evince unusual interest in the welfare and progress of their adopted town, and they have many friends who note with genuine pleasure their substantial business prosperity. Each owns a home nicely situated, and adjoining each other, on Salisbury street, at its intersection with Meyers Avenue extension, which is one of this city’s most desirable residence portions. Both are genial, affable gentlemen, courteous and upright in all their business transactions. More power to them.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Feb. 18, 1909 - p. 4
To the Public.
We are continually asked to supply to the trade our imported Macaroni but could not on account of the limited supply coming to this country. We are now glad to announce to the public that we are receiving a shipment on Friday and from this time on will furnish to our customers at 15 cents per pound. This product is manufactured in our home town, Termini, Sicily. We solicit your trial order. We also sell imported Olive Oil and will guarantee it to be of the highest quality. THe price of the Oil will be 85 cents per quart. Owing to the earthquake in Messina and dry weather the price of the Oil has advanced 60 cents per gallon.
- DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sep. 9, 1909 - p. 4
Gus Damico, president of the Damico Fruit company, a popular wholesale and retail mercantile concern of this city, left on Saturday for a few days' well earned vacation at Niagara Falls and Toronto.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: June 9, 1910 - p. 5
DAMICO BROTHERS DISSOLVE
Charles Retires From Old Firm and Will Engage in Fruit Business for Himself
As will be noted in another column, the partnership heretofore existing between the Damico brothers, Gus and Charles, under the title of the Damico Fruit Company, has been dissolved, Charles Damico retiring, while his brother will continue the business at the old stand. Charles Damico, after a brief rest, intends to embark in the wholesale and retail fruit business on his own account in Meyersdale. He feels run down in health and needs a good rest, but thinks he will be ready for business again after the Fourth of July. The Damicos have built up a fine trade in Meyersdale and enjoy an enviable reputation for fair dealing. The younger brother's many friends will be glad to know that he does not intend to leave Meyersdale, but that he will again engage in business here. Mr. Damico came to America from Sicily in the fall of 1892. In the following year he went into business at Chattanooga, Tenn., and has since conducted fruit stores in Huntington and Parkersburg, W.Va.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Baltimore, Frostburg and Lonaconing, Md., and has now been located in Meyersdale for eight years. He has excellent testimonials from business men in various places where he has been located, all testifying to his integrity and fair dealing. His genial and friendly disposition make him well liked personally, and when he starts in business again on his own account, he will doubtless be favored with a good share of the trade.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Jun. 16, 1910 - p. 2
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore subsisting between Gus Damico and Charles Damico, under the firm name of THE DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY, was dissolved on the 7th day of June, 1910, by mutual consent. All debts owing to said partnership are receivable by said Gus Damico, to whom also all claims and demands against the same are to be presented for payment. The said business being continued under the same name by Gus Damico.
GUS DAMICO,
CHARLES DAMICO.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: March 7, 1912 - p. 5
PECULIAR CAUSE OF DEATH.
Dr. Lichty Tells of Strange Case of Man Killed by a Rubber Inkstand Through Lingual Mistake.
At the pre-lenten supper given by Gus Damico to a company of his business friends, Dr. Bruce Lichty told a story on his host that illustrated the difficulties that some of our newly arrived foreign citizens have in making themselves understood in the lingo of Uncle Sam.
Dr. Lichty said that soon after his arrival in Meyersdale Mr. Damico came to him for physical examination for life insurance. Among the questions Mr. Damico had to answer was at what age did his father die and what was the cause of his demise. Signor Damico answered in his best English, recently acquired, and Dr. Lichty set down the cause of death as he understood it, to write: "Killed by rubber inkstand."
The application was forwarded to the headquarters of the insurance company in New York and a week later the doctor received a letter from the chief medical examiner, asking for particulars in regard to the manner in which the elder Damico got "killed by a rubber inkstand."
Dr. Lichty had some curiosity himself as to this remarkable cause of death, so he called upon Mr. Damico to explain. In the mean time Gus's English accent had improved and when he was asked to elucidate the fatal rubber inkstand incident, he broke into a loud guffaw and said:
"My pater he no getta kill bya da rubber inkstand. Robbers come to getta his mon. He refuse to giva robbers da mon. Robbers desperate, killa heem quick. Killed by robbers instantly; not killed by rubber inkstand. Sabe?"
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sept. 20, 1917 - p. 8
PROPOSES THANKSGIVING CONCERT FOR RED CROSS.
Signor Gus Damico, called by some the Caruso of Meyersdale, wants to do his "bit" for humanity and his adopted country by getting up a musical entertainment for the benefit of the American Red Cross to be given on Thanksgiving day. Mr. Damico can think of no more appropriate manner of observing Thanksgiving this year than by liberal giving to the Red Cross, and it is none too early, he thinks, to begin preparing for the event. WHen it comes to selling tickets for any charitable entertainment, there is no onecan sell more than Mr. Damico. He is also always a liberal patron himself of all worthy charities and when it comes to vocalizing, Gus is there too with the goods. The Republican hopes his efforts to raise a big Thanksgiving donation for the Red Cross will meet with hearty cooperation.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: January 12, 1922 - p. 1
OLD NANCY GONE TO HORSE HEAVEN
Gus Damico's Faithful Old White Mare Ushered into Equine Paradise.
Nancy, the faithful old white mare that gave Gus Damico over 21 years' of service, and that was dearer to her owner than the apple of his eye, has gone to horse heaven. Nancy passed on to the Elysian fields on Wednesday evening, being started on her journey to the equine paradise by Chief of Police John Smith who brought her earthly career to a close by firing a bullet into her head. The shooting was done by request as an act of mercy, as Nancy was paralyzed in her hind quarters and could not longer rise in her stall.
Nancy was nine years old when Mr. Damico bought her in September, 1900. She was therefore over 30 years of age and worked in harness as late as last Saturday. She was the best horse Mr. Damico ever owned and outlived and outworked four other younger and higher-priced horses during the time that Mr. Damico owned her. She could pull a bigger load than any other horse of her size and weight in Meyersdale, and she possessed almost human intelligence and sagacity. She was so gentle that Mr. Damico's son Frank began driving her when he was only four years old, and from that time on she and the boy were inseparable companions and she would respond readily to his commands than those of any other person. In fact little Frank was almost the only person she would hearken to in her old age.
Old Nancy hauled her last load of rubbish to the dump last Saturday. On Monday she was found down in her stall and unable to rise. On Tuesday she was assisted to her feet, but soon went down again and on investigation it was discovered that her hind quarters were paralyzed. Mr. Damico resorted to every remedy known to veterinary science to restore the health of his faithful nag, but it soon became apparent that the infirmities of age had overcome her and that her days were numbered. Finally to put her out of her misery, Chief Smith was requested to give her a quick pass to horse heaven.
Old Nancy, standing patiently in front of the Damico Fruit Co. store, was a familiar sight to all Meyersdale residents. To the Damico household she was a member of the family, and Signor Damico, his wife and children were all moved to tears when Chief Smith dispatched the old mare white mare to her last resting place.
_________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: February 12, 1925
DEATH AND FUNERAL OF GUS DAMICO
Obsequies of Popular Citzen Attended by Many Mouning Friends
The entire community was greatly shocked when the news was learned that Gus Damico had passed suddenly away last Thursday evening. Although a great many people knew he had been ailing for a few weeks no one anticipated that his illness would end in death.
Several weeks ago Mr. Damico was confined to his home with the grip, but had recovered sufficiently to attend to his business for a few days, but suffered a relapse which seemed to affect his heart, somewhat, and he was confined to home for over a week before the end came. His condition was not considered critical at any time, but a sudden change came on Thursday evening, and he expired in a few minutes in his wife's arms.
His daughter, Mrs. Charles Fallon, had been acting as nurse during his sickness, and on Thursday evening. she had prepared him for the night, and then, not being very well herself, left her father's house to go to her own home for the night. Just as she entered her door the phone rang, and she was prostated over the word that her father died while she was on the way home.
Agostino F.P. D'Amico (familiarly called "Gus Damico") was born in Termini Imerese, Sicily, April 11, 1869, and was therefore nearly 56 years of age. He came to this country about 35 years ago, being followed in a few years by his brother Charles, and together they engaged in the fruit business in various cities, finally coming to Meyersdale and going into the wholesale and retail fruit business here. Some years ago the brother dissolved partnership, since the which time each conducted his own wholesale business, both brothers prospering and accumulating considerable local real estate.
"Gus" D'Amico was one of the best known and well liked business men of Meyersdale, being of a jovial, generous disposition and making friends among all classes. He was honest in all his dealings and had the confidence and respect of the entire business community.
He was well educated, and was gifted with a pleasing voice, and for many years sang solos in the choir of SS. Philip and James Catholic church. He was always anxious that his children should have every advantage and sent them to college each in turn, besides sending them to Cumberland to take music lessons year after year, until they were ready to start out for themselves. There remain two daughter who will graduate from Seton Hill College next summer, and one young son who is not yet of college age, but for whom his father had many brilliant plans. He was always a devoted husband and father, and although strict in many ways, so that his children learned obedience, they were his loving pride, and they rewarded his concern for them with affectionate respect for their father.
Mr. D'Amico was married twice. His first wife died about 19 years ago, leaving five young daughters. After a few years he married a young lady he had known in Sicily who came to this country at his solicitation, and mothered his daughters, besides bringing him another daughter and a son.
He is survived by his wife and the following children: Mrs. Charles Fallon, Meyersdale; Mrs. Joseph Michiche, Baltimore, Md.; Miss Margaret D'Amico, employed by the government at Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Nat Lacavera, Meyersdale; Misses Mamie and Ignatia D'Amico, students at Seton Hill College, Greensburg, Pa., and Frank, at home. One brother, Charles Damico, of Meyersdale, also survives.
The funeral was held Monday morning at 9 o'clock in SS. Philip and James Catholic Church, where requiem high mass was celebrated by Father Gallagher of Somerset, in place of Rt. Rev. Father J.H. Brady, the pastor, who was taken suddenly ill before the funeral.
It was one of the largest funerals Meyersdale has known for some time. The floral tributes were numerous and beautiful, being nearly all set pieces, many of them from friends in Eastern cities. The pall-bearers were E.C. Hostetler, R.D. Pfahler, F.B. Thomas, George Logue, James B. Slicer, Harry Baldwin, F.P. Hare and George W. Collins, Jr. During the hours of the services nearly all the business houses were closed. The interment was made in the Catholic cemetery, in charge of Undertaker J. F. Reich.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: April 16, 1925 - p. 1
BODY OF GUS DAMICO TAKEN UP AND REBURIED
The body of Gus Damico which was interred in the Catholic cemetery, Feb. 9th, was taken up on Wednesday, April 15th, and re-buried in another lot in the same cemetery, which Mrs. Damico recently purchased. Undertaker J.F. Reich and John W. Cross of the Clark Grave Vault Co. of Columbus, O., superintended the disinterment and reburial. Mr. Damico was buried in a Clark steel vault. and when it was opened not a speck of rust nor sign of decay of any kind was noticeable in the contents of the vault. Not a drop of moisture had penetrated the vault. The body and features of the deceased were as life-like as on the day of burial. Mr. Cross pronounced it one of the best jobs of embalming he had ever seen, a compliment which Mr. Reich appreciated. The reinterment also demonstrated the water proof and rustproof qualities of the Clark grave vault.
A Fight to a Finish.
Last week the firm of Dondero & Damico, the Italian fruit dealers of this city, received a large consignment of tropical fruits from the seaboard. While cutting bananas from an extraordinary large and perfect bunch, they discovered a very large West India spider, a specie of the tarantula family, snugly esconsed within the bunch. Soon as discovered the fierce insect asserted its nature and antagonized every effort of capture. It was taken, however, and made captive in a large fruit jar and turned over to F.B. Thomas & Bro., the druggists, who exhibited it a few days in their window. Friday evening, in a trap in the cellar, they capture a half grown rodent, and placed it in the jar with the spider. The rat was not inside a second before the spider sprang upon it and undoubtedly gave it a deadly sting, which enraged the rat, and two engaged in a deadly combat, which last for full two minutes. The battle ground was small; there was no space for retreat by either of the antagonists, and it would be hard to tell which fought the fiercest. The rat, insanely infuriated by the sting, fought desperately and succeeded in killing the spider, but the inoculation of the deadly venom of the spider proved the deadliness of the spider's sting, and the intense agony of the rodent was relieved by an administration of chloroform.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: October 29, 1903 - p. 1
Firms Consolidates
The well known fruit firms of Lui Dondero, who has conducted a retail fruit store in this city for several years, and the Damico Fruit company, wholesale dealers in the same line of goods have consolidated their interests. They will still continue the two places of business and will wholesale and retail as in the past. The officers of the new company are: Gus. Damico, president; Lui Dondero, vice-president; Charles Damico, treasurer; Julius Spinetta, secretary. The new firm will take the name of the Damico Fruit company, and as the gentlemen interested are all hustlers they should make a success, as both of the old firms have been very successful.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: December 20 & 27, 1906 - p. 7
Meyersdale for years has enjoyed the distinction of having numbered among her varied business interests the most enterprising and progressive wholesale fruit establishment in Somerset county. He firm is known as the Damico Fruit Company, and is composed of two brothers – Gus Damico, president, and Charles Damico, secretary and treasurer. The firm occupy quarters in the Collins Block on Centre street, which they use as their retail salesroom and office, while the bulk of their stock is stored in several large warerooms located in various parts of town. Besides being hustlers of in their line, they are thoroughly versed in every detail that enters into the successful, proper and honorable conduct of their business, and have thus succeeded admirably in winning the confidence and esteem of their large army of patrons who appreciate their efforts to please. Fruits and vegetables in season are bought direct from the growers or large jobbers and shipped here in car lots, and in turn distributed in the retail trade in southern Somerset county, this state, as well as the northern portion of our southern neighbor, Garrett county, Maryland.
During their business existence here this firm has succeeded in building up and holding an admirable wholesale trade, and there certainly must be some advantages or inducements held out to the retail trade in order to make possible the giant business strides this well known firm has taken during the past few years. Local retailers prefer dealing with them for the very good reason that they can at all times secure more satisfactory goods in vastly better condition and at better prices than they can secure the same goods from jobbers in the eastern cities. Being trained and expert in their line the slightest defects in the fruits and vegetables are quickly discerned by them, and as quickly condemned, so that their chief pride lies in always supplying their customers with the best and choicest goods to be secured in any market in the world.
At their retail market the most exacting connoisseurs can at all times be supplied with the choicest the markets affords. To the average winter-ridden mortal it is refreshing, if not comforting and consoling, to pass by their market when mercury is hovering close to the zero mark and the wind is blowing a gale, to feast one’s eyes upon plumb and luscious cucumbers and tomatoes fresh from the vine, together with radishes, onions, lettuce, etc. It serves to bring back very forcibly sweet and tender recollections of the “good old summer time.”
The Damico Brothers are classed among our most respected, thrifty citizens, and evince unusual interest in the welfare and progress of their adopted town, and they have many friends who note with genuine pleasure their substantial business prosperity. Each owns a home nicely situated, and adjoining each other, on Salisbury street, at its intersection with Meyers Avenue extension, which is one of this city’s most desirable residence portions. Both are genial, affable gentlemen, courteous and upright in all their business transactions. More power to them.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Feb. 18, 1909 - p. 4
To the Public.
We are continually asked to supply to the trade our imported Macaroni but could not on account of the limited supply coming to this country. We are now glad to announce to the public that we are receiving a shipment on Friday and from this time on will furnish to our customers at 15 cents per pound. This product is manufactured in our home town, Termini, Sicily. We solicit your trial order. We also sell imported Olive Oil and will guarantee it to be of the highest quality. THe price of the Oil will be 85 cents per quart. Owing to the earthquake in Messina and dry weather the price of the Oil has advanced 60 cents per gallon.
- DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sep. 9, 1909 - p. 4
Gus Damico, president of the Damico Fruit company, a popular wholesale and retail mercantile concern of this city, left on Saturday for a few days' well earned vacation at Niagara Falls and Toronto.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: June 9, 1910 - p. 5
DAMICO BROTHERS DISSOLVE
Charles Retires From Old Firm and Will Engage in Fruit Business for Himself
As will be noted in another column, the partnership heretofore existing between the Damico brothers, Gus and Charles, under the title of the Damico Fruit Company, has been dissolved, Charles Damico retiring, while his brother will continue the business at the old stand. Charles Damico, after a brief rest, intends to embark in the wholesale and retail fruit business on his own account in Meyersdale. He feels run down in health and needs a good rest, but thinks he will be ready for business again after the Fourth of July. The Damicos have built up a fine trade in Meyersdale and enjoy an enviable reputation for fair dealing. The younger brother's many friends will be glad to know that he does not intend to leave Meyersdale, but that he will again engage in business here. Mr. Damico came to America from Sicily in the fall of 1892. In the following year he went into business at Chattanooga, Tenn., and has since conducted fruit stores in Huntington and Parkersburg, W.Va.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Baltimore, Frostburg and Lonaconing, Md., and has now been located in Meyersdale for eight years. He has excellent testimonials from business men in various places where he has been located, all testifying to his integrity and fair dealing. His genial and friendly disposition make him well liked personally, and when he starts in business again on his own account, he will doubtless be favored with a good share of the trade.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Jun. 16, 1910 - p. 2
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore subsisting between Gus Damico and Charles Damico, under the firm name of THE DAMICO FRUIT COMPANY, was dissolved on the 7th day of June, 1910, by mutual consent. All debts owing to said partnership are receivable by said Gus Damico, to whom also all claims and demands against the same are to be presented for payment. The said business being continued under the same name by Gus Damico.
GUS DAMICO,
CHARLES DAMICO.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: March 7, 1912 - p. 5
PECULIAR CAUSE OF DEATH.
Dr. Lichty Tells of Strange Case of Man Killed by a Rubber Inkstand Through Lingual Mistake.
At the pre-lenten supper given by Gus Damico to a company of his business friends, Dr. Bruce Lichty told a story on his host that illustrated the difficulties that some of our newly arrived foreign citizens have in making themselves understood in the lingo of Uncle Sam.
Dr. Lichty said that soon after his arrival in Meyersdale Mr. Damico came to him for physical examination for life insurance. Among the questions Mr. Damico had to answer was at what age did his father die and what was the cause of his demise. Signor Damico answered in his best English, recently acquired, and Dr. Lichty set down the cause of death as he understood it, to write: "Killed by rubber inkstand."
The application was forwarded to the headquarters of the insurance company in New York and a week later the doctor received a letter from the chief medical examiner, asking for particulars in regard to the manner in which the elder Damico got "killed by a rubber inkstand."
Dr. Lichty had some curiosity himself as to this remarkable cause of death, so he called upon Mr. Damico to explain. In the mean time Gus's English accent had improved and when he was asked to elucidate the fatal rubber inkstand incident, he broke into a loud guffaw and said:
"My pater he no getta kill bya da rubber inkstand. Robbers come to getta his mon. He refuse to giva robbers da mon. Robbers desperate, killa heem quick. Killed by robbers instantly; not killed by rubber inkstand. Sabe?"
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: Sept. 20, 1917 - p. 8
PROPOSES THANKSGIVING CONCERT FOR RED CROSS.
Signor Gus Damico, called by some the Caruso of Meyersdale, wants to do his "bit" for humanity and his adopted country by getting up a musical entertainment for the benefit of the American Red Cross to be given on Thanksgiving day. Mr. Damico can think of no more appropriate manner of observing Thanksgiving this year than by liberal giving to the Red Cross, and it is none too early, he thinks, to begin preparing for the event. WHen it comes to selling tickets for any charitable entertainment, there is no onecan sell more than Mr. Damico. He is also always a liberal patron himself of all worthy charities and when it comes to vocalizing, Gus is there too with the goods. The Republican hopes his efforts to raise a big Thanksgiving donation for the Red Cross will meet with hearty cooperation.
_________________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: January 12, 1922 - p. 1
OLD NANCY GONE TO HORSE HEAVEN
Gus Damico's Faithful Old White Mare Ushered into Equine Paradise.
Nancy, the faithful old white mare that gave Gus Damico over 21 years' of service, and that was dearer to her owner than the apple of his eye, has gone to horse heaven. Nancy passed on to the Elysian fields on Wednesday evening, being started on her journey to the equine paradise by Chief of Police John Smith who brought her earthly career to a close by firing a bullet into her head. The shooting was done by request as an act of mercy, as Nancy was paralyzed in her hind quarters and could not longer rise in her stall.
Nancy was nine years old when Mr. Damico bought her in September, 1900. She was therefore over 30 years of age and worked in harness as late as last Saturday. She was the best horse Mr. Damico ever owned and outlived and outworked four other younger and higher-priced horses during the time that Mr. Damico owned her. She could pull a bigger load than any other horse of her size and weight in Meyersdale, and she possessed almost human intelligence and sagacity. She was so gentle that Mr. Damico's son Frank began driving her when he was only four years old, and from that time on she and the boy were inseparable companions and she would respond readily to his commands than those of any other person. In fact little Frank was almost the only person she would hearken to in her old age.
Old Nancy hauled her last load of rubbish to the dump last Saturday. On Monday she was found down in her stall and unable to rise. On Tuesday she was assisted to her feet, but soon went down again and on investigation it was discovered that her hind quarters were paralyzed. Mr. Damico resorted to every remedy known to veterinary science to restore the health of his faithful nag, but it soon became apparent that the infirmities of age had overcome her and that her days were numbered. Finally to put her out of her misery, Chief Smith was requested to give her a quick pass to horse heaven.
Old Nancy, standing patiently in front of the Damico Fruit Co. store, was a familiar sight to all Meyersdale residents. To the Damico household she was a member of the family, and Signor Damico, his wife and children were all moved to tears when Chief Smith dispatched the old mare white mare to her last resting place.
_________________________________________________
Meyersdale Republican: February 12, 1925
DEATH AND FUNERAL OF GUS DAMICO
Obsequies of Popular Citzen Attended by Many Mouning Friends
The entire community was greatly shocked when the news was learned that Gus Damico had passed suddenly away last Thursday evening. Although a great many people knew he had been ailing for a few weeks no one anticipated that his illness would end in death.
Several weeks ago Mr. Damico was confined to his home with the grip, but had recovered sufficiently to attend to his business for a few days, but suffered a relapse which seemed to affect his heart, somewhat, and he was confined to home for over a week before the end came. His condition was not considered critical at any time, but a sudden change came on Thursday evening, and he expired in a few minutes in his wife's arms.
His daughter, Mrs. Charles Fallon, had been acting as nurse during his sickness, and on Thursday evening. she had prepared him for the night, and then, not being very well herself, left her father's house to go to her own home for the night. Just as she entered her door the phone rang, and she was prostated over the word that her father died while she was on the way home.
Agostino F.P. D'Amico (familiarly called "Gus Damico") was born in Termini Imerese, Sicily, April 11, 1869, and was therefore nearly 56 years of age. He came to this country about 35 years ago, being followed in a few years by his brother Charles, and together they engaged in the fruit business in various cities, finally coming to Meyersdale and going into the wholesale and retail fruit business here. Some years ago the brother dissolved partnership, since the which time each conducted his own wholesale business, both brothers prospering and accumulating considerable local real estate.
"Gus" D'Amico was one of the best known and well liked business men of Meyersdale, being of a jovial, generous disposition and making friends among all classes. He was honest in all his dealings and had the confidence and respect of the entire business community.
He was well educated, and was gifted with a pleasing voice, and for many years sang solos in the choir of SS. Philip and James Catholic church. He was always anxious that his children should have every advantage and sent them to college each in turn, besides sending them to Cumberland to take music lessons year after year, until they were ready to start out for themselves. There remain two daughter who will graduate from Seton Hill College next summer, and one young son who is not yet of college age, but for whom his father had many brilliant plans. He was always a devoted husband and father, and although strict in many ways, so that his children learned obedience, they were his loving pride, and they rewarded his concern for them with affectionate respect for their father.
Mr. D'Amico was married twice. His first wife died about 19 years ago, leaving five young daughters. After a few years he married a young lady he had known in Sicily who came to this country at his solicitation, and mothered his daughters, besides bringing him another daughter and a son.
He is survived by his wife and the following children: Mrs. Charles Fallon, Meyersdale; Mrs. Joseph Michiche, Baltimore, Md.; Miss Margaret D'Amico, employed by the government at Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Nat Lacavera, Meyersdale; Misses Mamie and Ignatia D'Amico, students at Seton Hill College, Greensburg, Pa., and Frank, at home. One brother, Charles Damico, of Meyersdale, also survives.
The funeral was held Monday morning at 9 o'clock in SS. Philip and James Catholic Church, where requiem high mass was celebrated by Father Gallagher of Somerset, in place of Rt. Rev. Father J.H. Brady, the pastor, who was taken suddenly ill before the funeral.
It was one of the largest funerals Meyersdale has known for some time. The floral tributes were numerous and beautiful, being nearly all set pieces, many of them from friends in Eastern cities. The pall-bearers were E.C. Hostetler, R.D. Pfahler, F.B. Thomas, George Logue, James B. Slicer, Harry Baldwin, F.P. Hare and George W. Collins, Jr. During the hours of the services nearly all the business houses were closed. The interment was made in the Catholic cemetery, in charge of Undertaker J. F. Reich.
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Meyersdale Republican: April 16, 1925 - p. 1
BODY OF GUS DAMICO TAKEN UP AND REBURIED
The body of Gus Damico which was interred in the Catholic cemetery, Feb. 9th, was taken up on Wednesday, April 15th, and re-buried in another lot in the same cemetery, which Mrs. Damico recently purchased. Undertaker J.F. Reich and John W. Cross of the Clark Grave Vault Co. of Columbus, O., superintended the disinterment and reburial. Mr. Damico was buried in a Clark steel vault. and when it was opened not a speck of rust nor sign of decay of any kind was noticeable in the contents of the vault. Not a drop of moisture had penetrated the vault. The body and features of the deceased were as life-like as on the day of burial. Mr. Cross pronounced it one of the best jobs of embalming he had ever seen, a compliment which Mr. Reich appreciated. The reinterment also demonstrated the water proof and rustproof qualities of the Clark grave vault.
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