Mary Reinhart

Hamilton Place Mary Reinhart

Anthony John Pafitis, a Greek sailor made the decision at a very early age to search for a better life. Illegally entering the New World in 1916, he eventually settled on the North Side section of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He married and raised a family in an area known as Hamilton Place. His youngest daughter, Mary Sophia recounts her growing up years in the era of "colored and white sections", unlocked doors, and of immigrants living and playing together in this close environment. A time when money and jobs were scarce, when families were torn apart and children were often made "wards of the court", subjecting them to humiliating experiences. With the outbreak of WWII, the immigrants learned the true meaning of patriotism and love for their adopted country. The importance and impact of the war effort would be felt not only by the adults, but also by the children, however circumstances would soon overshadow the war changing forever a way of life.