Carmela Sabilia (The Peanut Lady)

Dr. Darla Shaw portrays Carmela Sabilia, better known as "The Peanut Lady" or "Mama Joe," who emigrated from Italy to Georgetown in 1898.

Dr. Darla Shaw portrays Carmela Sabilia, better known as “The Peanut Lady” or “Mama Joe,” who emigrated from Italy to Georgetown in 1898. In the 1920s and 30s, one day each week Mrs. Sabilia roasted peanuts over a wood fire and sold them for 10 cents a bag walking a 13-mile round trip from Branchville to Main Street. This 20-year enterprise was undertaken to pay for her son’s college tuition. The other six days she worked in her husband Joe’s store, Sabilia’s Groceries, Fruit & Vegetables, Ice Cream & Candy.

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Fueled by curiosity, this Ridgefield Historical Society intern explores Ridgefield’s past, bringing untold stories to life through impactful projects.

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