Sweet Memories

Carmella Dziura spent much of her life surrounded by the aroma of fresh rolls, tomato pies and oreganata.

The Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident was born and raised in Philadelphia’s Manayunk section and worked from a young age at her family-owned bakery, Consolo Bakery, a well-loved establishment on the corner of Hermitage and Smick Streets.

“I was born into the business,” she said. “My parents ran it, and then after my dad died, it was my mother, my three brothers, my three sisters and me. We all helped.”

Her Italian mother, Domenica Consolo, was known for her kind heart and contributions to the community. “She took in everyone in need [to the bakery] and sent kids home with fresh rolls or a couple of loaves of bread. She would give them cookies if she heard one of the servicemen were coming home.”

For her efforts, Domenica received a silver plate from the Order Sons of Italy in America - Ivy Ridge Lodge No. 251 in 1966. Her picture was featured prominently in the Roxborough Review newspaper. The bakery was also featured often in what was then the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

Consolo Bakery, which opened in the 1920s, closed for a short time during World War II, after Carmella’s brothers were drafted into the Army and her father died.

“My mom had offers [from people] to buy the shop, but she said the boys would run it when they got home if they wanted to,” Carmella said. “And they did. It stayed open until about 10 years ago, and then it was sold, torn down and replaced by houses. I originally lived in a house that was connected to the bakery.” Carmella said her favorite thing about the bakery was the customers, mostly her neighbors. Everyone knew and looked out for each other. Carmella would bag goodies, take orders or greet people, depending on the need at the time. She spoke both English and Italian, which came in handy when working with customers.

“I was a good baker’s helper,” she said. “I learned from my mom and brothers and sisters. We had a coal oven and everything was done by hand. Baking is very relaxing. And I knew we were doing something good for the community.”

When she wasn’t at the bakery, Carmella worked at Wells Fargo in downtown Philadelphia. She also volunteered with Catholic Charities and the state doing social work.

Today, at 85 years old, Carmella doesn’t bake as much as she used to. Her children affectionately call her the “cookie monster” because she’s always eating store-bought cookies and other sweets.

Carmella has two children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her daughter, who lives in New

York, sees her often. Her son, who lives in Delaware County, visits every Saturday. Carmella was married to her husband Walter for 61 years. Walter and others nicknamed Carmella “Chick” because, “I was always very short and his friends would say, ‘you’re no taller than a chicken!’ It never left me, even in old age!”

Walter died in January, and Carmella moved to Masonic Village in April.

“I have no complaints about living here, I just wish my husband lived long enough to join me,” she said. “Everyone is very nice and friendly. Half of my graduating class is here. People recognize me. It makes me feel good.”

Carmella was already familiar with Masonic Village because she used to accompany a friend there to visit her mother. When it came time to find a senior living community for herself, she knew it was the right choice.

“We looked at other places, but I liked this place the best,” she said. “The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. They answered all my questions. I wanted someplace small to live with a patio. And I didn’t have to wait long.”

Top left, a photo of Carmella’s mother, Domenica Consolo. Top right, Carmella in her Masonic Village kitchen. Middle right, the family bakery’s delivery truck. Bottom right, Domenica accepts the 21st Ward Community Service Award.