Columbus 500

Columbus 500
In October of 1992, we as a country celebrated the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus in 1492. A group of Westmoreland County Italian-Americans decided that 500 years after this discovery date marked a significant bench mark, and decided that something should be done to honor Columbus and his discovery.

Thus, in 1992, the Westmoreland Columbus 500 was established. In 1992 and 1993, the Columbus Committee generated funds and organized major parades in the city of Greensburg to commemorate America’s discovery. In subsequent years, we organized a banquet to honor outstanding Westmoreland County Italian-Americans who have shown outstanding qualities in their professions or way of life and awarded scholarships to deserving students. The event and scholarships are funded by advertisements placed on our website and our program booklet, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation for participation in our program.

As Italian-Americans, we are proud people whose ancestors most likely entered this country through the gates of Ellis Island and then settled in Westmoreland County to establish their homes and families. Our efforts are to honor these outstanding individuals who were brave enough to encounter many obstacles in the pursuit of a happy and prosperous life. We salute those early immigrants who establish the basis of the Italian-American population in Westmoreland County.