Charles Margiotti (1891-1956)
Punxsutawney, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Prominent lawyer, business executive, and civic and political leader, Margiotti was appointed Pennsylvania Attorney General, 1935-1938, by Governor George Earle. He was among the first Italian Americans to hold such a post in the US. He was the Republican candidate for Governor in 1934. He practiced law in Pittsburgh and donated services to defend immigrant workers. A native of Punxsutawney, Margiotti is interred here at Calvary Cemetery.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
A native of Punxsutawney, Charles Margiotti rose to prominence as a lawyer, business leader, and political figure in early 20th-century Pennsylvania. Appointed state Attorney General by Governor George Earle from 1935 to 1938, he was among the first Italian Americans in the nation to hold such a high office, after running as the Republican candidate for governor in 1934. He built his practice in Pittsburgh and often defended immigrant workers without charge; he is buried here at Calvary Cemetery.
Why it matters
Margiotti's career marks the arrival of Italian Americans in the top ranks of American public life, a milestone in the immigrant generations' climb into political power.
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Related people
- · Charles Margiotti
- · George Earle
Themes & tags
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