Annual Ball of the Italian Benevolent Society: 1st

"The Italian colony of New York wanted as well to have its national celebration of charitable giving; but instead of a theatrical performance, they have organized a ball, under the auspices of the charity 'Unione e Fratellanza Italiana'. This ball will take place next Friday, 11 March, at Irving Hall. The ticket price is fixed at $3, for a gentleman accompanied by two ladies.

This is the first time, at least in many years, that the Italians residing in New York have made an effort to get together, and none can salute this fortunate initiative more wholeheartedly than we. To say Italian celebration is almost to say French celebration, for without speaking about the very close political relationship that exists between Paris and Turin, the two nationalities have thousands of points of affinity. We hope that our compatriots will be numerous....Besides its particular character and charitable goal, this ball will rank, we assure you, among the most beautiful of the season, thanks to the zeal of the committee and the position of the persons who have become patrons."

"In proportion to the approach of the day of this celebration, it presents itself under more and more fascinating auspices.In accordance with the national character, it promises to present a cosmopolitan look, for almost all the European groups in New York will be represented by some of their members. But  a feature that could be more interesting than the rest will be the presence of the majority of Italian artists to be found in the city--to commence with the most well-known among them. That's an element that is completely new at an American ball, which will give it a singular touch recalling Paris or Milan."

“The Italians resident in this city, and their friends, had a ball at Irving Hall last Friday night for the benefit of the charities of the Italian Union Benevolent Society, which was one of the pleasantest affairs of the kind ever given here. The room could have been more crowded with advantage to the exchequer, but as it was, the comfort of those attending was secured, as there was quite space enough to dance and to exhibit toilettes. Some of these toilettes, too, were superb, and almost all in good taste. One fair, powdered head attracted attention, as did another lady’s jet black hair sparkling in the gay lights with diamond dust.

The room was ornamented with unusual taste. Upon the platform stood a military trophy of arms and flags, and on either side, on pedestals, the busts of Washington and Garibaldi. Near these were shields bearing the national colors and inscribed with the words: ‘Honor to the Hero and President of our Society,’ Garibaldi, being honorary president of the association. The windows and gallery were elegantly draped with flags of all nations, the Stars and Stripes and the Cross (once of Savoy, now) of Italy [sic] of course predominating. The music furnished by Grafulla’s and another band, located at opposite ends of the room, was admirable.

The society of ‘Unione e Fratellanza Italiana’ has been in existence since 1857, and is a benevolent rather than a political association. This is its first annual ball. Among the charities under its care is the useful school for Italian children at Five Points, to which half of the proceeds of the ball will be devoted. It is a matter of regret that the entertainment was not given while the officers of the Ite d’Italia were in town, as their presence would have imparted a special interest to the affair.”