Visiting Kansas City

[motorfab]

Ribauld is a very French name (so as Clement & Girrard), Missouri like Louisiana or Québec was part of the "Nouvelle France" (the French American colonies), so it sounds like they were half French/Italian IMO

[PolackTony]

Ribauld is a very French name (so as Clement & Girrard), Missouri like Louisiana or Québec was part of the "Nouvelle France" (the French American colonies), so it sounds like they were half French/Italian IMO

Probably just nicknames or phonetic distortions, I’m thinking. Looks like “Ribaud” was actually Tony Cacioppo, for example. “Clement” seems to have been Clemente.

[motorfab]

Ribauld is a very French name (so as Clement & Girrard), Missouri like Louisiana or Québec was part of the "Nouvelle France" (the French American colonies), so it sounds like they were half French/Italian IMO

Probably just nicknames or phonetic distortions, I’m thinking. Looks like “Ribaud” was actually Tony Cacioppo, for example. “Clement” seems to have been Clemente.

Indeed, make sense, I didn't realize it was Cascioppo

[Angelo Santino]

1 DiGaetano was Interim BOB at the time Vincenzo Chiappetta visited him for "Black Hand Matters"
2 Chiappetta's Marriage Cert below:
3 Nick Gentile claims he was KC Boss in 1923-1924 which is an issue for KC historians who have Scarface Joe DiGiovanni from 1912 until 1930.
4 Chiappetta applied for a passport in 1924 to visit his mother. Wonder if there's any correlation between Gentile allegedly having been boss and Chiappetta going to Italy.
5: Passport posted below:

vrmmo1833_c12530-2018.jpg

USM1490_2522-0189.jpg

USM1490_2522-0190.jpg

[Angelo Santino]

Ribauld is a very French name (so as Clement & Girrard), Missouri like Louisiana or Québec was part of the "Nouvelle France" (the French American colonies), so it sounds like they were half French/Italian IMO

Probably just nicknames or phonetic distortions, I’m thinking. Looks like “Ribaud” was actually Tony Cacioppo, for example. “Clement” seems to have been Clemente.

Indeed, make sense, I didn't realize it was Cascioppo

Yeah, many times the agents would hear a name and write it phonetically or if they seen the spelling would have to remember it which is why names would get muddled.

[Angelo Santino]

The members list...

[PolackTony]

Sebastian Vito "Buster" Balestrere was born in 1918 in KC to Francesco Balistrieri of Bagheria and Josephine Navarra (haven't been able to confirm her ancestry. Given that Buster's older brother James was born in Bagheria, she was most likely from there as well). Francesco, unsurprisingly, had family that settled in both Milwaukee and San Diego. From what I can trace out, Buster was indeed related to Frank Peter Balistrieri of Milwaukee, as both families seem to go back to the frazione of Aspra in Bagheria and descend from a mid-19th century couple named Francesco Balistrieri and Maria Frittitta. In 1948, Buster married Rose Marchese, who was born in KC to parents from Gibellina.

At the bottom of this thread - viewtopic.php?f=29&t=2168&p=149923#p149923 - is a tree of the Balestreres. Glad to see it matches what you’ve written. You guys research at such a fast pace.

Ha! Apologies, I wasn’t aware of the excellent research that you had already posted about them (great work on the KC chart also, BTW). Personally, I really appreciate when multiple researchers independently investigate a question and arrive at the same conclusion; it’s like a replication study in science, and helps to strengthen the body of knowledge.

As a side note, I think it’s interesting that some of the documents for the Balistrieris specify Aspra as opposed to Bagheria. I suspect that the frazione had a strong, distinct local identity, as with Porticello and Favarotta vis-a-vis Santa Flavia and Terrasini, respectively.

[Antiliar]

KANSAS CITY
Boss: Joseph Nicholas (Nick) Civella AKA Nick Bove, (Mar 19, 1912, Kansas City-Mar 12, 1983, Kansas City), FBI 1224024. Parents Antonio Civello and Antonia Bove. Wife: Katherine/Kathryn Anzalone. Resides at 401 Maple Blvd., Kansas City, MO (1962), 1500 East 50th Terrace N., Kansas City, MO (1967). Had interests in Pompeian Room, Gallucci Real Estate, and a trucking business.
Underboss: Thomas Anthony (“Highway”) Simone (Feb 11, 1915, Kansas City-May 21, 1968, Kansas City), FBI 755974. Lived at 414 Wabash, Kansas City, MO (1950) with wife Mary (Savina Falco). Parents: Anthony Simone of Messina, Sicily, and Anna LaMantia of parents from Termini Imerese, Sicily.
Underboss: Carl Angelo (Tuffy) De Luna, FBI 4121933. Sister: Molly De Luna, married to Anthony Thomas Civella, nephew of Nick Civella.
Caporegime (1985): William (“Willie the Rat”) Cammisano, Sr.
Caporegime (1985): Anthony Thomas (“Tony Ripe”) Civella
Caporegime (1985): Charles David (“Cump”) Moretina
Past bosses:
Paolo DiGiovanni (Apr 15, 1875, Chiusa Sclafani, Sicily-Aug 27, 1929, Kansas City): Nick Gentile reported that he was the rappresentante around 1920.
Nicola Gentile (1885, Siculiana, Sicily-Aft 1975, Realmonte?, Sicily): Nick Gentile claimed that he was the boss of Kansas City from around 1922 to 1925. He did not say what happened to Paolo DiGiovanni during this time.
Joseph (Giuseppe) DiGiovanni (Apr 28, 1888, Chiusa Sclafani-Aug 5, 1971, Kansas City): The younger brother of Paolo DiGiovanni, the Federal Bureau of Narcotics believed he was one of the early bosses and a Black Hand leader.
James “Big Jim” Balestrere (Jun 24, 1891, Bagheria, Sicily-Oct 19, 1959, Kansas City): Parents: Giovanni Balistrieri and Caterina Brunetto. Wife: Josephine Falcone. Arrived at Ellis Island around Apr 15, 1903 on SS Columbia per Petition for Naturalization, but closest match is a Girolamo Balestrieri, 23 (born c.1882), arriving on the SS Sicilia on May 18, 1905, from Bagheria and a destination of Milwaukee. Married Josephine Falcone in Kansas City on Mar 31, 1913, under the name Girolamo Pallestrieri. Petition for Naturalization witnessed by Frank Benanti [son of Ignazio Benanti], a lawyer, of 2839 E. 9th St., Kansas City, MO (1917). Resided at 410 Troost St., Kansas City, MO (1917); 1138 Pacific St., Kansas City, MO (1919); 5421 Brooklyn Street, Kansas City, MO (1940). The Federal Bureau of Narcotics believed he was the leader after Joseph DiGiovanni. Grocer in late 1910s. Soft drink factory secretary.
Giovanni Lazio (John Lazia) (Sep 28, 1895, Brooklyn, NY-Jul 10, 1934, Kansas City): son of Giuseppe Lazio (1859/1864, Italy-May 9, 1931, Kansas City) and Francesca Lipari (1866, Italy-Nov 3, 1925, Kansas City); mother is daughter of Mariano Lipari and Caterina Benenato. Head of the North Side Democratic Club and close to political machine boss Thomas J. Pendergast. Murdered by two men while he was with Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carollo as he stepped out of his car. Pallbearers at his funeral included James Balestrere, Joseph Gallucci and Charles Gargotta
Charles Vincent Carrollo (Aug 25, 1902, Santa Cristina Gela, Sicily-Sep 26, 1979, Kansas City): Born Vincenzo Carrollo. Parents: Antonino and Rosa Maria Carrollo. Wife: Caroline (“Carrie”) DiMaggio. Immigrated to U.S. on Sep 2, 1905 at NOLA. Lived at 526 Harriston St., Kansas City, MO (1926). Naturalized in 1926, witnesses were Marion Nigro, a salesman of 915 E. Missouri Ave., Kansas City, MO; and Nick Faggiano, a grocer of 573 Campbell St., Kansas City, MO. Known as “Charlie the Wop,” under his leadership the Kansas City Family became involved in a nationwide narcotics ring that included the Tampa, Mangano, and St. Louis crime families. Carrollo was sentenced to federal prison in 1938 for perjury, tax evasion and mail fraud. He was released in 1946. Carrollo denied that he was a Mafia member and said he had been an independent bootlegger who paid tribute to the Mafia. He identified James Balestrere as the boss in the 1920s until he went to prison.
Charles Binaggio (Jan 12, 1909, Beaumont, TX-Apr 6, 1950): Parents: Vito (“William”) Binaggia (or Binagia) and Antonina Pizolato (or D’Atola); both parents from Gibellina, Sicily. Father arrived to U.S. on SS Totado on Nov 16, 1885, in New York, and wife on August 1902 in New Orleans according to father’s Declaration of Intention. Binaggio moved to Texas around 1930. He continued the drug ring operations until the FBN made multiple arrests in 1942, landing several members in prison. In 1949 he pushed for legalized horse race gambling and made promises to the other Families that he had a politician in his pocket who would pass the bill, but a Democratic faction led by James M. Pendergast, Thomas Pendergast’s nephew, opposed it. As a result, he and his top aide Charles Gargotta were shot to death on April 6, 1950. Buster Balestrere and Joseph Gurera are the suspected shooters. Charles Gargotta was born Dec 13, 1900, in Kansas City to Vincenzo Gargotta and Leboria (“Lucy”) Scalia. Charles Gargotta married Marie Bennett on May 7, 1928. Marion Nigro was the witness.
Anthony Gizzo (Aug 4, 1899/1902, NYC-Apr 1, 1953, Dallas, TX).
BLACK HAND ERA SUSPECTED MEMBERS:
Vincenzo Abbollito (Jan 11, 1889, Roggiano Gravina, Cosenza-Jan 1, 1951, Kansas City), partner of Cirrincione in saloon at 103 East Third Street. Occupation: Bartender. Lived at 310 Harrison Street, Kansas City, MO (1915); 512 Troost St., Kansas City, MO (1917). Arrested on Jul 28, 1915, in their saloon. Petition for Naturalization witnessed by Marion Nigro, a health inspector, of 915 E. Missouri Ave., Kansas City, MO (1918).
Mariano Alonzo (1879, Camporeale, Sicily-1917, Kansas City?). Wife: Vignia Saladino. Lived at 310 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Mariano Alonzo of Camporeale arrived on the SS Liguria on Jul 12, 1907, at Ellis Island, with a final destination of brother-in-law Leonardo Saladino of Omaha, Neb. A baker. Arrested on Jul 28, 1915, with Tony Maniscalco. Left his home on January 1917 and was never seen again. Declared dead on Jan 5, 1925. Estate administrator was Mike Mule of 504 Park Ave, sureties by Dominick Moley of 516 Park Ave and Lorenzo Daleo of 522 Brooklyn Ave.
Pietro Angelo, 30, 517 East Fifth Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Laborer. Arrested Jul 29, 1915.
James Balestrere (1891-1959), grocer at 579 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO (1916).
Ignanzio Benanti (Jan 6, 1868, Campofelice, Sicily-Jul 7, 1928, Kansas City). Parents: Francesco Benanti and Maria Passantino. Wife: Giuseppa Arnone (married in Kansas City on Nov 2, 1891). Immigrated to U.S. in 1881 according to 1910 census. Arrested Jul 31, 1915. Saloon owner. Lived at 215 Sixth St., Kansas City, MO (1910).
Salvatore (“Sam”) Brancato (May 29, 1878, Mezzojuso, Sicily-Apr 5, 1935, Kansas City). Parents: Victor Brancato and Suanna Oddo. Wife: Maria. Resided at 515 East 3rd St., Kansas City, MO (1900); 513 West 7th St., Kansas City, MO (1908); 706 Locust St., Kansas City, MO (1915); 1450 Admiral Blvd, Kansas City, MO (1935). Arrived in U.S. at New Orleans on Nov 13, 1895 (correct record could be Nov 9, 1896, on SS Bolivia). Occupation: Wealthy grocer at 429 East Sixth Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Provided information to police on Black Hand.
Giuseppe (“Joe”) Cangelosi (or Cancialose or Cancalosi) (Jan 15, 1882, Camporeale, Sicily-Jun 15, 1920, Kansas City): Parents: Calogerio Cangelosi and Vita Tarantola. Wife: Francesca Lipori. Laborer at the Kansas City railroad terminal (1918). Listed as Joseph Cangialosi, a helper at the Frisco Lines shops and residing at 532 Gillis, Kansas City, MO, in 1907 city directory.Owned grocery at 1224 East Twelfth Street when he was shot down in 1920. Newspaper reports said that he was 28, although other records indicate he was 38. Andrew Lalumina, a cousin, was arrested. Lalumina purchased the grocery from Cangelosi eight days earlier. He was represented by Frank Benanti, son of Ignazio Benanti. Tony Plovina, 38, of 932 Admiral Blvd., was also arrested.
Vincenzo Caronia, convicted of sending Black Hand letters to Joseph Piero on Mar 10, 1916.
Dominic Carrollo, grocer at 1002 Pacific Ave., Kansas City, MO (1915); 913 E. 5th St., Kansas City, MO (1916).
Paul Catanzaro (Nov 9, 1884, Gibellina, Sicily-May 12, 1969, Kansas City), suspected leader, shoe shop operator at 804 Independence Avenue. Worked for the DiGiovanni brothers. Arrived Oct 23, 1902, at Port of New Orleans. 565 Harrison Street, arrested at his shoe shop at Independence Avenue and Charlotte Street on Jul 29, 1915. Witnesses to Petition for Naturalization in 1924 were Faro D’Angelo, a merchant at 559 Charlotte St., Kansas City, MO; and Sam Tripi, a chemist manufacturer at 3832 Prospect Ave., Kansas City, MO.
Domenico Cipolla (Aug 4, 1888, Palermo, Sicily-Dec 22, 1921, Kansas City): Parents: Lorenzo Cipolla and Caterina Mangiaracina (or Mangano). Wife: Rosa Randazzo. Had five brothers: Frank, Sam, Charles, Joseph and John. Came to Kansas City in late 1890s. Married Randazzo in Kansas City on Jan 21, 1906. Fruit merchant in City Market. Residence: 3425 Kenwood Ave., Kansas City, MO (1921). Known as Don Cipolla, he was a bondsman and manager of Bescher Fruit Company. Shot and killed on Dec 22, 1921. He was aligned with the Democratic faction in the fifth ward, president of the Santa Rosalia Society, and vice-president of the Italo-Americana Society.
Lorenzo (“Lawrence Musso”), the younger brother of Luciano Musso, was held for his murder and soon released. Musso was born on Jun 11, 1886, in Marsala, Sicily. In 1922, Lawrence (“Jap”) Musso operated a soft drink parlor at 410 Oak Street, and on May 17, 1923, Musso was shot and killed by Joe Saladino. Saladino, 26, was bonded by Frank LaRocca, L. Restivo and Bilillo. Cipolla was supposed to fix his case but failed. Nick DeFeo and Tom Ventola ran a rival bond agency and considered Cipolla a major competitor. Thomas F. Ventola, born in Naples on Dec 28, 1889/1891, was the brother of Nick Ventola, who in turn was the father of Pasquale (“Patsy”) Ventola and Louis Ventola. Patsy Ventola married Sadie DiGiovanni, the daughter of Pete DiGiovanni, in 1938. Tom Ventola was also an active Republican and an associate of Charles and Sam Tripi. In 1924 Tom Ventola and his wife were sentenced to a year and a day in prison for failure to pay liquor tax for liquor they made.
Giovanni (“John”) Cirrincione, (Aug 14, 1879, Campofelice, Sicily-Mar 16, 1950, Dallas, TX). Parents: Giuseppe Cirrincione and “Mamie Monsiei.” Wife: Josephine Cuccia. Resided at 3203 (?) East Fifth Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Suspected Black Hand leader, saloonkeeper (103 East Third Street) and restaurant owner. Arrived at Ellis Island on Nov 22, 1899 or Nov 23, 1900. Lived in New York City until around 1907 and was in Kansas City by 1909. Arrested for Black Hand activity on Jul 28, 1915. In Feb 1916, he sued restaurant owner Salvatore Brancato for $20,000 for false arrest for allegedly sending him a Black Hand letter. Was shot and wounded by unknown gunman on Aug 18, 1916. Moved to Dallas, Texas, sometime after 1940.
Joseph DiGiovanni, (Feb 23, 1888, Chiusa Sclafani, Sicily-Aug 5, 1971, Kansas City), suspected leader, grocer. Arrived at NOLA on May 17, 1903, on SS Manila. Resided in Kansas City, MO since April 1905 (according to another source he arrived in 1912). Married Vincenzina on Oct 4, 1914 in Kansas City. Arrested Jul 29, 1915, employed at grocery at 1002 Pacific Street owned by Domenico Carrollo. Per 1915 city directory was a checker at Armour & Co., and residence at 519 Harrison St. Resided at 565 Campbell Street, Kansas City, MO (1915); 3524 Park Ave., Kansas City, MO (1924). Petition for Naturalization witnessed by Sam Tripi, a chemist of 3832 Prospect Ave., Kansas City; and Peter Berbiglia, a merchant, of 4400 Windsor Ave., Kansas City.
Paul DiGiovanni, grocer at 548 Campbell St., Kansas City, MO (1916). Parents: Salvatore DiGiovanni and Rosaria Gendusa. Wife: Laura Vetrano. Arrived at New York on Jun 3, 1900. Daughter Rosalia born in Louisiana in 1902. Declaration of Intention in Milwaukee, WI, on Mar 18, 1904. Lived at 798 Girard St., Chicago, IL., in 1906. Naturalized in Chicago on Jun 27, 1906, witnessed by Giuseppe DiGiorgio of 291 Wabansia St. and Nick Buccola of 384 ½ S. Clark St. Son Sam born in Illinois in 1907, Vincent in 1912, and daughter Maria Teresa on Nov 28, 1913. Lived at 533-535 Oak St., Chicago, IL in 1910. Resided at 544 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO (1915). Son Pietro born in Kansas City in 1916. Lived at 614 Forest Ave., Kansas City, MO (1918).
Peter DiGiovanni (Jun 28, 1886, Chiusa Sclafani, Sicily-1970, Kansas City), grocer at 1138 Pacific St., Kansas City, MO (1916). Arrived at NOLA on May 17, 1903. Married Mary Olivo in Kansas City, MO., on Oct 31, 1909. In 1915 was grocer at 521 Campbell and lived at 514 Harrison. Lived at 1030 E 5th St., Kansas City, MO (1917). Daughter Sadie born in Kansas City in 1910, son Salvatore in Chicago in 1912, and son Paul in Kansas City in 1914. Petition of Naturalization (1924) witnessed by Marion Nigro and Otto Nigro.
Anthony Ferrantelli (Oct 23, 1872/1876, Italy-Oct 6, 1951, Kansas City): Parents: Giacomo Ferrantelli and Maria Nicolosi. Wife: Gaetana Franco of Lucca Toscana. Younger brother Paolo was born in Burgio, Agrigento, Sicily, so he may also have been born there. In 1918 he lived at 513 E 5th St., Kansas City, MO, and owned a macaroni factory, A & Co., with Frank Larocca. In 1926 he had a grocery at 523 Charlotte Street. He and his brother Paul, and Vincenzo Chiappetta, went into the liquor business with Nick Gentile. Paul’s son Jake married Fannie Gargotta (Jan 9, 1919-Dec 17, 2009)
Michael Governale, 42, a shoemaker, resided at 404 East Fourth Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Arrested Jul 29, 1915.
Mario Ippolito (Mar 1, 1891, Italy-Jan 9, 1915) AKA Charles Polito, killed Jan 9, 1915. Parents: Andrea Ippolito and Rosa Monfre. Occupation: Marble setter. Residence: 1417 Main Street, Kansas City, MO (1915).
Sam Gennusa (Sep 13, 1886, Gibellina, Sicily-Dec 23, 1951, Kansas City), 306 Cherry Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Suspect in murder of Mario Ippolito. Employed as a clerk for Mike Bevona at 17 Oak St., Kansas City, MO (1918). Served in U.S. Army, 155th Infantry, Jun 24, 1918-May 27, 1919; fought in World War I.
Domenico Leto (Jan 23, 1880, Monreale, Sicily-UNK), suspected leader, arrested Mar 26, 1916. Resided at 702 East Fifth Street, Kansas City, MO (1916). He reportedly arrived in U.S. around Mar 31, 1905, in New York. In 1913 owned a saloon at 302 Main St., Kansas City, MO. Claimed to be a travelling saleseman for a spaghetti firm. In 1918 reported to be owner of produce merchant business and a peddler. Nearest relative was Tony Leto of 707 E. 5th St., Kansas City, MO (1918). In 1927 he lived in New York City at 180 Forsyth Street.
Antonio (“Tony”) Maniscalco, 33, lived at 567 Harrison Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). A watchman. Arrested on Jul 28, 1915, with Mariano Alongi.
Luciano Musso AKA Charlie Musso (Sep 13, 1876, Gibellina, Sicily-Jan 23, 1915, Kansas City). Parents: Giovanni (John) Musso and Francesca Fontana (?) [per death certificate, family tree has Bertotti]. Wife: Jennie Fermaturo (married in Kansas City, Oct 6, 1903), killed Jan 23, 1915. Resided at 407 East 3rd St., Kansas City, MO (1908); 416 Locust Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Arrived at Port of New Orleans on Oct 25, 1901. Owned Young Italian Club pool hall at 403 ½ in 1911. Police declared his pool hall a hangout for bad men. Pool hall owner and fruit and vegetable dealer. Reportedly a gang leader. Friend of Mario Ippolito. Joined Detective Louis A. Olivero to find Ippolito’s killer, and was himself killed by a man wearing a disguise. Younger brother Giuseppe (Joe) Musso shot to death in Kansas City on Nov 19, 1917.
Joseph Saia, arrested Jul 31, 1915. Saloon owner.
Vincent Tortorici (1894, Italy-), 403 East Nineteenth Street, Kansas City, MO (1915). Suspect in murder of Mario Ippolito.
Andrea (Andrew) Trapani and Salvatore (Samuel) Trapani. Brothers who owned a pool hall at 602 East Fifth Street in April 1911. Police raided the pool hall and declared that it was a hangout for bad men. Andrea Trapani was born c1875/1881 and died in Omaha, Neb., on Mar 4, 1917. Andrea Trapani was killed using a pneumatic drill while working for Union Pacific. Andrea was married to Giuseppa (Josephine) Cusimano. Sam was born c1875 and was married to Rosina Mangano, who he married in Kansas City on Oct 9, 1907. Under the alias of Sam Mangano, Trapani was shot and killed by Sam Maniscalco in Omaha on Jul 14, 1923. Maniscalco claimed Trapani often threatened him with a gun, so he wanted to even the score.
Salvatore (“Sam”) Tripi (Sep 24, 1886, Cerda, Sicily-Jun 7, 1944, Rochester, NY): Parents: Giuseppe Tripi and Maria Anna Comella. Wife: Mary Francoviglia. Residence: 409 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO (1917). Pool hall owner (1917). Res. 513 Locust St., Kansas City, MO (1920), druggist (1920).
Salvatore Tripi-Rao (or Tripitaro) (c1885-), saloonkeeper and reportedly a Black Hand leader (1915). Owned pool hall at 3rd and Independence (1915). Possibly same ss Salvatore Tripi. 1911 city directory lists Anthony Tripi-Rao as a druggist and Benedetto Tripi-Rao as a physician, both living at 707 E 5th St., and a Constance Tripi at the same address.Carmelo and Salvatore Tripi both live at 556 Harrison. All came from Cerda and may have been cousins.
Sam Vanza, suspect in murder of Mario Ippolito.
SUGARHOUSE SYNDICATE:
500 Block of East 5th Street Group:
Paul DiGiovanni
Pete DiGiovanni
Joe DiGiovanni
Vincent DiGiovanni
Vincent Chiappetta
Lusco Group:
James Lusco
Joseph Lusco
Tudie Lusco
Harrison & Missouri Avenues Group:
Anthony Carrollo, father
Charles Carrollo, son
Frank Carrollo, son
Roma Bakery Group:
Joe Filardo
Joe Cusumano
Balestrere-Lococo Group:
James Balestrere
Gaetano (Thomas) Lococo
NARCOTICS RING
Leonardo (“Lonnie”) Affronti (May 24, 1898, Kansas City-Mar 30, 1960, Springfield, MO): Parents: Antonio Affronti of Ventimiglia and Antonina "Lena" Fradella of Trabia. Antonio arrived in New York in 1890 and married Antonina Fradella in KC on Nov 7, 1893, and operated a grocery store at 517 Gillis St. Antonio Affronti and Pete DiGiovanni were arrested for hoarding flour in 1918 (during World War I rations). Antonio was also active in the local Democratic organization. In 1931, Joe Reveley gave narcotics agents info about Lonnie Affronti, and in October Reveley was shot to death. Agents arrested Lonnie in Philadelphia in May 1932, but he was released on bond. In June he killed another witness, his wife, and a friend. He may have committed several more murders after he returned to Kansas City. He was captured in New York on Dec 30, 1937. He died in a prison hospital in 1960. Nick Impastato and Joe DeLuca took over his narcotics operation.
Charles William (“Red Brick”) Bengimina (Nov 2, 1909, Brooklyn-1993), FBI 2011904. He worked as a distributor under Carl Carramusa.
Carl Carramusa (1908-1945), brother of Tony Carramusa, who was murdered by the Black Hand in 1914. Leader in the drug ring, turned prosecution witness and was shot to death in Chicago. Carramusa’s sister married the brother of Joseph Gurera. He worked as a manager under Nicola Impostato. Carl Carramusa was an Illinois-born mobster who served as the front man for Kansas City operations of an international narcotics ring. Ignazio Antinori, a high-ranking member of the Tampa borgata, organized the drug ring and imported the drugs from France by way of Havana and had them transported to Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago, and other locations where crime families existed. Carramusa was born in Chicago as Carlo Carramusa on August 24, either in 1907 or 1908, to Frank (Francesco) Carramusa, a native of the Province of Palermo, and Vincenza Sanfilippo. Frank's parents were Carlo Carramusa and Olivia Spano, and Vincenza's father was Pietro Sanfilippo, who also came from the Province of Palermo. Some of Pietro's siblings were born in Porticello, Santa Flavia. Vincenza's parents came from Solanto, next to Santa Flavia. In Chicago, the Carramusas lived in the rear of 818 Milton Avenue. Francesco Carramusa was a grocer; his naturalization was witnessed by Mike Coniglio, who was probably from Corleone and lived at 114 Milton. Carl Carramusa and his family moved to Kansas City when he was a child. When Carl was a boy his younger brother, 11-year-old Frank Jr, was murdered by the local Mafia in Kansas City. As an adult, despite the death of his brother, he joined the Kansas City Family and operated Carey's Modernistic bar at 3223 Troost Street. He married Leona Varveris on October 30, 1928, in Kansas City; they already had a daughter, Virginia Marie, on August 30, 1927. The Carramusas had a son, Frank, in 1938. In 1942 the Federal Bureau of Narcotics arrested Carramusa and several other members of the Kansas City, St. Louis and Tampa Families. Ignazio Antinori was not arrested - he was accused of selling inferior quality narcotics and they buyers demanded their money back. He refused and was shot to death in 1940. His sons Paul and Joseph replaced him in the drug ring and were among those arrested. Carramusa decided to turn and became a government witness. His brother's alleged killer sat in the front row and made threatening gestures toward him; police escorted him out and arrested him. Carramusa was given four years for his participation, but joined the Army, leading the judge to dismiss one charge and place him on probation for the others. He was able to leave the Army in 1944 and was advised to move to a safe location far from the Mafia. He chose to move to Chicago - but with a new name. His brother Sam lived nearby at 1145 N. Lawndale Avenue, and his father also lived in the city. The new name he chose, Carl Carey, was actually the same alias he previously used in Kansas City. He opened up an ornamental furniture business, De Pac Wood Products, Inc. at 506 S. Wells Street. Joseph "De Grassia" was Carramusa's partner. Rocco DeGrazia of Melrose Park had a brother named Joseph. On June 21, 1945, as Carramusa sat in his car in front of his house at 837 N. Lawndale Avenue, a car with three men fired at him with a shotgun, blowing his head off. The gunmen fired three times from the slow-moving car driving north on Lawndale Avenue. His 15 or 16-year-old daughter and her two friends saw the whole thing. His wife, Leona, was pregnant with another child. The widow told police that they were waiting for Carl to drive them to a baby shower in her honor. Nicolo Impastato of the Kansas City borgata was suspected of being one of the gunmen. Daughter Virginia married Carl Gurera in Kansas City in 1950. Carl Gurera's older brother was Joseph Frank Gurera, a made member of the Kansas City Family who spent time in Milwaukee.
Joseph De Luna
Nicola Impastato (June 1, 1900, Cinisi-Sept 1979) was a made member of the Kansas City crime family. He was born to Giacomo Impastato and Marianna Beretta. His brother Vito Impastato was a member of the Springfield, IL, borgata. He claimed he escaped persecution from Benito Mussolini in 1927. The 5’6” tall Impastato told authorities that he spoke no English, but was able to work as a clerk in a Kansas City liquor store for the DiGiovanni family. In the mid-1930s he was contacted by Nick Gentile and Charles LaGaipa to take part in a heroin drug trafficking ring. In 1940 he and James DeSimone, both from Kansas City, fired a shotgun at Tampa gambler Charlie Wall and a friend. Wall and his associate both escaped with only slight injuries. DeSimone and Impastato were staying with high-ranking Tampa member Ignazio Antinori family at the time. Impastato and Tampa Mafioso James Lumia were suspected of killing turncoat Carl Carramusa in Chicago in 1945. In 1950 Impastato was suspected of killing Lumia in Tampa. According to his World War II draft card, he lived at 712 Highland in Kansas City in 1942 and had a business partnership with Frank DiSimone of 406 Wabash in Bel-Air Cleaners at 2321 Independence Avenue. Impastato was deported on an Air France flight on November 29, 1955, from Mexico City to Paris. He died in his hometown of Cinini in September 1979. Impastato’s partner in crime, James DeSimone, was deported on September 19, 1953.
Louis and Patsy Ventola: Nephews of bondsman Thomas F. Ventola; Patsy married the daughter of Pete DiGiovanni, Sadie. They were narcotics dealers who worked under Charles Bengimina.
CONFIRMED AND SUSPECTED MEMBERS:
Leonardo (“Lonnie”) Affronti (May 24, 1898, Canada-1960), FBI 189847: Father: Antonio Affronti of Ventimiglia, Sicily, Mother: Antonina Fradella of Trabia, Sicily. Wife: Billie Leroy. Sister married to Tudie Lascuola. Resided at 514 Gillis, Kansas City, MO (1940).
Giacomo ("Jack") Ancona (Jan 10, 1889, Castelvetrano, Sicily – Apr 27, 1968, Kansas City), FBI 1683880. Parents: Giuseppe Ancona and Rosa Conte. Wife: Giovannina ("Jennie") LoSciuto/Sciuto.Resided at 2826 E. 8th St., Kansas City, MO (1962). Unemployed.
Tony Balano (Jan 30, 1898, Castelvetrano-). Wife: Rosa. Lived at 401 Garfield, Kansas City, MO (1950), operated Balano Tobacco and Liquor.
Sebastian Vito (“Buster”) Balestrere (Nov 16, 1918-Apr 6, 1977, Kansas City), FBI 1057020, nephew of James Balestrere, sister married to the brother of Milwaukee boss Frank Balistrieri. Transferred to Milwaukee in 1958. Resides at 8604 East 53rd Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Operates Mr. Jim’s Bar.
Charles William (“Red Brick”) Bengimina (Nov 2, 1909, Brooklyn-1993), FBI 2011904, resides at 224 East 44th Street North, Kansas City, MO (1967). Part owner of B&G Amusement Company and B&G Vending Company.
Giovanni Battista Blando AKA John B. Blando (Jun 12, 1897, Bagheria, Sicily-), resides at 637 East 74th Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Wife: Maria (“Marie”) Balistrere. Nephew of James Balestrere. Owns and operates Superior Wine & Liquor.
Antonino ("Tony Bilello") Bonino (Mar 9, 1905, Gibellina, Sicily – Nov 26, 1980, Kansas City), FBI 595763. Parents: Nunzio Bonino and Vincenza Scandiolata. He arrived in NYC in 1923 bound for KC where his uncle Gioacchino Binaggia was already living. In 1937, he married Vincenza ("Virigina") Solito, who was born in KC to Giuseppe Solito and Maria Giannusa. Resided at 3620 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO (1962). Owns and operates Quaff Buffet Tavern.
Charles (“Chucky Morgan”) Cacioppo (Jun 20, 1923, Kansas City-2000), FBI 1494276, brother of Thomas Cacioppo and cousin of Joseph Gurera. Resides at 3010 McGee Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Owns Industrial Salvage & Wrecking Co.
Thomas Joseph (“Tommy Morgan”) Cacioppo (Feb 18, 1913, Omaha, NE-2011), FBI 679492, older brother of Charles Cacioppo and cousin of Joseph Gurera. Resides at 126 Olive, Kansas City, MO (1967). Unemployed.
William (“Willie Cummings”) Cammisano (Apr 26, 1914, Williamsburg, IA-Jan 26, 1995, Kansas City), FBI 769449, resides at 333 South Jackson, Kansas City, MO (1950); 5700 North Grand, Gladstone, MO (1967). Wife: Antoinette. Operates Grand Salvage. Dubbed “Willie the Rat” by the press.
Louis (“Black Louie”) Cangelose (Aug 7, 1912-Jun 27, 1965). Killed in an auto accident. Previously a driver for Tony Gizzo.
Joseph S. Carrolla (Dec 11, 1916, Kansas City-), FBI 3903899, resides at 901 East 5th Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Operates Sebbeto Funeral Home.
Salvatore (“Sam”) Carrollo (Aug 21, 1914, Kansas City-), FBI 3018274, resides at 3930 St. John, Kansas City, MO. Owns Kleer Air Sales Company. Expert jewelry appraiser and a fence.
Paolo "Paul" Catanzaro (Nov 9, 1884, Gibellina, Sicily-May 12, 1969, Kansas City). He arrived in NOLA on Oct 23, 1902, and in 1912 married Mary Molinaro. Resided at 538 Olive St., Kansas City, MO (1962). Retired, formerly watchman for Midwest Distributing Co., owned by Joseph and Pete DiGiovanni.
Vincenzo Chiappetta (Nov 23, 1886, Poggioreale, Sicily-1970, St. Louis, MO). Has two brothers, Marco and Marion. Wife: Maria Corpora. Resided at 5931 Paseo, Kansas City, MO (1950); 21 York Hills Drive, Brentwood, St. Louis, MO (1962). Secretary and Treasurer of Superior Wine and Liquor in Kansas City with John Blando and Vincent DiGiovanni (1950). Maria Corpora Chiappetta’s cousins by marriage were Phillip, Anna Maria and Paul Scaglia, children of Marion (Mario) Scaglia, brother of Pellegrino Scaglia. He was arrested with Vito DiGiorgio in New Orleans for a Black Hand bombing in 1908, then went to Kansas City in 1909, where he became a grocer and associated with the DiGiovanni group. He visited Sebastiano DiGaetano in New York in 1912. He was naturalized in Pittsburgh in 1919, and Gregorio Conti witnessed his naturalization. Chiappetta was under a death penalty from Vito DiGiorgio of Los Angeles in 1921 until Nick Gentile convinced him to cancel. Gentile and Chiappetta went into business together in 1922-1925, along with Anthony Ferrantelli. Chiappetta moved to St. Louis between 1950 and 1954 and suffered for ill health thereafter. He was president of Suprema Concilio, an Italian charitable organization.
Anthony Thomas (“Tony Ripe”) Civella (Feb 17, 1930, Kansas City-), FBI 704222A, nephew of Nick Civella. Wife: Molly De Luna, sister of Carl Angelo De Luna. Resides at 1509 N.E. 50th Terrace, Kansas City, MO (1967). Operates Antonio’s Pizzeria and is meat salesman for B & C Meat Company.
Carl James (“Corky”) Civella (Jan 28, 1910, Kansas City-), FBI 679493, brother of Nick Civella. Resides at 1505 N.E. 50th Terrace, Kansas City, MO (1967). Co-owns B&C Meat Company.
Giuseppe Cusamano AKA Joseph Cusumano (Jan 25, 1900, Castelvetrano, Sicily-), FBI 828237B, wife: Carmela Mentesano. Resides at 101 South Van Brunt Boulevard, Kansas City, MO (1962/1967). Retired and formerly owne Roma Bakery with Joseph Filardo.
Francesco ("Frank") DeLuca (Apr 1, 1898, Giardinello, Sicily – May 12, 1967, Kansas City), FBI 1820551. Parents: Antonino De Luca and Antonina Buzzetti. Brothers Salvatore and Joseph. Wife: Lilian Cora Buckner. Resided at 1320 Admiral Blvd, Kansas City, MO (1962). Unemployed.
Giuseppe (“Joseph”) DeLuca (Apr 17, 1893, Giardinello, Sicily - ?), FBI 3382583. Wife: Frances C. Perry. Resided at 6133 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO (1962). Unemployed. Arrived in U.S. on Apr 10, 1910.
Giuseppe (“Scarface Joe”) DiGiovanni (Apr 28, 1888, Chiusa Sclafani, Sicily-Aug 5, 1971, Kansas City), FBI 1007227: Son of Salvatore DiGiovanni, brother of Paolo, Pietro and Vincent. Wife: Vincenzina (“Jennie”) Fasone. Resided at 1217 W. 70 Terrace, Kansas City, MO (1962). Co-owner with brother Pietro in Midwest Distribution Co. until 1953 when they sold it to their sons.
Pietro (“Sugarhouse Pete”) DiGiovanni (Jun 28, 1886, Chiusa Sclafani, Sicily-1971, Kansas City), brother of Paolo and Joseph DiGiovanni. Wife: Mary Olivo, sister of Joseph Olivo. Resided at 502 Campbell Street, Kansas City, MO (1962). Co-owner with brother Joseph in Midwest Distribution Co. until 1953 when they sold it to their sons.
Nicholas Evola (Apr 1, 1906, Kansas City-Oct 8, 1981, Missouri), FBI 195927, resides at 6705 North Broadway, Kansas City, MO (1967). Owns Paramount Music & Vending Company. Parents: Vincent Evola of Cinisi and Mary LaMantia, older sister of Anna LaMantia, wife of Thomas Simone, and parents from Termini Imerese. Wife: Vincie Dolce.
Felix Ferina (Jan 30, 1925, Kansas City-1984), FBI 2683291. Parents: Gaspare Ferina of Chiusa Sclafani and Felicia UNK of Cinisi.
Anthony Ferrantelli (Oct 23, 1876, Burgio, Sicily-Oct 6, 1951, Kansas City): Identified by Nick Gentile as a member. Parner with Frank LaRocca in a macaroni business.
Joseph Filardo (Aug 10, 1898, Castelvetrano, Sicily-Aug 29, 1985, Kansas City), FBI 753474C: Wife: Carmela Capo DiAntonino. Resides at 103 South Van Brunt Avenue, Kansas City, MO (1962/1967). Attended the 1957 Apalachin meeting. Founded and operated Roma Bakery on Independence Avenue with Joseph Cusumano.
Thomas (“Dude”) Fontanella (Sep 20, 1911, Italy-Apr 26, 1987, Kansas City), FBI 344518, resides at 1807 Pendleton, Kansas City, MO (1967), owns Midwest Tavern. Wife: Rose Forte.
Joseph Frank Gurera (Jul 4, 1924, Kansas City-Dec 30, 1967, Overland Park, KS): son of Carl Gurera, born in Missouri, and Elizabeth Mangiaracina, born in Louisiana. Carl was a Kansas City bootlegger who was shot and killed on March 11, 1933. Carl was the son of Giuseppe Gurera/Gurrera and Maria Cacioppo. Elizabeth Mangiaracina was the daughter of Calogero Mangiaracina and Filippa Accardo, both of Castelvetrano, Sicily. Wife: Nancy Marchese, the sister of Buster Balestrere’s wife. Cousin of Charles Cacioppo. Brother married sister of Carl Carramusa. Allegedly killed Charles Binaggio and Charles Gargotta in 1950. Transferred to Milwaukee in 1962.
Nicoline Impastato AKA Nick Tousa
Francesco (“Frank”) LaRocca (Feb 14, 1889, Lucca Sicula, Sicily – Dec 27, 1976, Kansas City), FBI 64795. Born Francesco Franco and legally changed his name to Frank La Rocca. Wife: Francesca "Frances" Cerrito. Entered the U.S. on Oct 24, 1906, at Ellis Island as Francesco Franko. Arrested for murder twice in Kansas City, MO. In 1920 he was acquitted by a jury and in 1921 he was arrested as a suspect and released. Previously lived in Pueblo, CO. Owned LaRocca Wholesale Grocery.
Joseph (“Joe School”) Lascuola (Jan 1, 1897, Termini Imerese, Sicily-Oct 5, 1983, Missouri), FBI 467361, Parents: Giacomo Lascuola and Saveria Sansone. Brother of Mike Lascoula. Wife: Pauline. Resides at 1910 E. 72nd Street, Kansas City, MO (1962); 39 N.W. 38th Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Used car salesman at Raytown Auto Mart. Operated clubs with brother Michael and hat interest in Artcraft Store Equipment Co.
Michael (“Mike School”) Lascuola (May 19, 1906, Kansas City-Apr 27, 1993), FBI 1806821, resided at 6744 Montgall Ave, Kansas City, MO (1962); 1311 East 108th Street, Kansas City, MO (1967). Wife: Clara O. Monsen.Operated gambling casino..
Gaetano (“Thomas”) Lococo (Jan 3, 1895, Jackson County, MO-Sep 1993), FBI 278541, resides 346 South Jackson, Kansas City, MO (1962/1967). Parents: Ignazio Lococo of Termini Imerese and Angelina Matrascia of Termini. Wife: Edith Gargotta. Daughter Carolina married Paul Scaglia. Operates Gaetano’s Restaurant.
Calogero (“Carl”) Mangiaracina, father of John, Vincent, Anthony and Elizabeth (Dec 26, 1875, Castelvetrano-May 17, 1966, Kansas City). Wife: Filippa Accardo of Castelvetrano (Feb 1, 1880/1882-May 7, 1960), daughter of Giovanni Accardo and unknown mother.
John (“Johnny Mag”) Mangiaracina (Aug 3, 1911, Independence, LA-Oct 30, 1970, Kansas City), FBI 357650, son of Carl and brother of Elizabeth. Resides at 1136 East Missouri, Kansas City, MO (1967). Operates Missouri Coin Shop.
John B. Molle (Dec 27, 1914, Kansas City-Nov 3, 1982, Kansas City), FBI 4523858. Parents: Antonino Mule (AKA Molle) of Sambuca Zabut, Sicily, son of Giovanni Mule and Maria Sparacina, and Saveria (“Sarah”) Mangiaracina of Sambuca, daughter of Michelangelo Mangiaracina and Maria Tipiano. Resides 36 West Bridal Spur Drive, Kansas City, MO (1967). Wife: Anna Rosa (“Ann”) Balestrere, daughter of Francesco (“Frank”) Balestrere of Bagheria and Josephine, and sister of Buster Balestrere. Owns and operates Sarann Auto & Truck Leasing Company.
Charles David Moretina (Feb 28, 1928, Kansas City-Aug 14, 1928, North Kansas City, MO), FBI, 3973291, resides at 4665 Gladstone, Kansas City, MO (1967). Parents: Jess Moretina, whose father came from Castegnato, Brescia, Lombardia, Italy, and Eduth Tuller of Wisconsin.
Lorenzo Musso AKA Lawrence John Musso
Joseph Olivo (Feb 14, 1899, Kansas City-), FBI 81060. Parents: Giuseppe Olivo and Luigia ("Louise") DeMaio. His parents were both born in Italy and married in 1891 in Cape Girardeau County, MO. Sister Mary Olivo married Pete DiGiovanni, Delia married Mario Balistreri of Santa Clara, California. Resided at 3035 N. 18th Street, Kansas City, MO (1962). Owned ¼ interest in Olympic Stadium, Kansas City, MO.
Joe Oliver, born Giuseppe Olivero on Dec 25, 1887, in Italy. Associate of Nick Impastato. Has one arrest for policy slips in 1939. A World War II draft registration card shows Joe Oliver living at 604 E. 5th St., Kansas City, MO (1942). He was unemployed. A World War I draft registration card for a Joseph Oliveri, born Dec 25, 1889, gives an address of 1226 E. 52nd Street, Los Angeles, CA. He was naturalized and was born in Patti, Italy. His occupation was painter and he was single.
Peter Joseph (“Cousin”) Tamburello (Jan 17, 19320Mar 31, 2005, Kansas City), FBI 679104C, resides at 5020 North Highland, Kansas City, MO (1967). Driver and bodyguard for Nick Civella. Married Jean Marie Bliss, Feb 6, 1963, Kansas City.
Frank Anthony Tousa (Jan 5, 1927, Kansas City-Jul 7, 2009), FBI 4065209, resides at 5000 N. Highland, Kansas City, MO (1967). Married Frances Marie Risaloato (Risalvato), Dec 13, 1950, Jackson County, MO..

[motorfab]

Awesome list/infos Antiliar, thanks !

[B.]

Amazing info

[Angelo Santino]

Great info! Question, what era does this list represent because I'm seeing names that I don't have from the FBI reports.

[Antiliar]

Great info! Question, what era does this list represent because I'm seeing names that I don't have from the FBI reports.

It goes back to the Black Hand era up to the 1990s.

[Angelo Santino]

Great info! Question, what era does this list represent because I'm seeing names that I don't have from the FBI reports.

It goes back to the Black Hand era up to the 1990s.

Ok so not everyone on that list may have been members in 1963. Thanks!

[PolackTony]

Great info, Anti, thanks for sharing!

[Antiliar]

I noticed something interesting in 1890s-early 1900s KC. The Terminese seemed to be the dominant faction, represented with names such as Gargotta, Sansone, Rinella, LaMantia, etc. The Castelvetrano side was much smaller with names such as Mangiaracina and Accardo. Others from Campofelice, Camporeale, Partinico, Cinisi, Gibellina, Bagheria and Chiusa Sclafani came later. Relatively speaking, Castelvetrano, Poggioreale, Chiusa Sclafani and Gibellina are close enough that they could be considered a triangle similar to Chicago's Cimmina, Bagheria and Termini triangle.

I suspect that Luciano Musso of Gibellina could have been an early leader. Perhaps his murder led to Paolo DiGiovanni taking over. Hard to say who would have been possible bosses before Musso, but a couple names come to mind, such as Joe D'Amico and Antonino Gargotta. D'Amico was called "The King of Little Italy" and worked as a court interpreter. He came to KC from New Orleans, but we don't know where he was born in Italy. A family tree on Ancestry has him as a northerner, but it provides no sources. Moreover, even back then the Sicilian population of New Orleans was pretty significant. Gargotta came from Termini. Unfortunately there were several Antonino Gargottas who lived near each other and whose ages weren't that far apart, so it's difficult to pin down which one was the community leader.