Title supplied by cataloger. Domenico (Dominic) Di Ciolla, was one of the earliest leaders of what became known as the Los Angeles crime family. He was involved in bootlegging and allegedly several murders. He was found murdered near Pacoima in 1931, after challenging other crime bosses in an attempt to expand his criminal operations. Photograph caption dated March 19, 1931 reads "Photo shows the 'big' funeral of Domenico di Ciolla, asserted 'big shot,' a procession surrounded by sinister mysteries and secretive 'rumblings' as to why di Ciolla was 'taken for a ride' to death, and by whom. Three cars laden with flowers are pictured in a cortege of 100 autos. The flowers cost $1500 and di Ciolla was laid to rest in a $1000 silver casket in the 'fine funeral,' the traditional reward of those who live in shadow of gangland guns."
Type
image
Format
1 photographic print :b&w ;15 x 23 cm. on board 17 x 26 cm. Photographic prints
Di Ciolla, Domenico--Death and burial Funeral rites and ceremonies--California--Los Angeles Flower arrangements Automobiles--California--Los Angeles Streets--California--Los Angeles Electric lines--Poles and towers Herald-Examiner Collection photographs
If you're wondering about permissions and what you can do with this item, a good starting point is the "rights information" on this page. See our terms of use for more tips.
Share your story
Has Calisphere helped you advance your research, complete a project, or find something meaningful? We'd love to hear about it; please send us a message.