Cecelia Arpey Monaco Interview
Cecelia (1929-) grew up in the West Side of Saratoga Springs in a large interconnected family. Her cousin, Mary Ann Cardillo Fitzgerald, interviewed her allowing her memories and stories to gain another dimension with Mary Ann's input. They discussed family, religion, a trip to Italy, and political events such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the Civil Rights Movement.
What makes this interview unique is Cecelia and Mary Ann's relationship as first cousins. Cecelia's mother and Mary Ann's father were siblings. They both have all of the prior knowledge of backstories so they do not need to explain stories before diving into the meat of them. This is a disadvantage to the outside listener because we do not ave the knowledge and are throw into the deep end. However, not being caught up to speed is an advantage nonetheless because we are able to gain a deeper insight into community and family values of a version of the West Side that no longer exists.
Valley Acres was an outdoor vegetable, fruit, flower, and antique market. The outdoor building on the left was a greenhouse. Folks would go out in the springtime to get their vegetable plants for their gardens, as well as their annual and perennial flowers. The building on the right had an apartment for Cecelia's parents to live in. The building also housed the antique store. The long porch area in the front of the building held the fresh fruit and vegetable stand for seasonal items. They also had an area where birdbaths and garden ornaments were featured. Cecelia was the accountant/bookeeper managing the financial end of the business. In preparation for the Christmas Holidays, Cecelia turned to her artistic side and created the wreaths and "kissing balls" and any other item that could be made from natural greenery such as garland. They also sold Christmas trees. After the holidays, Cecelia's Mom & Dad spent the winter in Florida. Valley Acres was closed January through April.
A visual representation of Cecelia and Mary Ann's relation.