History

**About the Piave Club of Columbus**

The Piave Club of Columbus, established in 1919 by American men of Italian heritage, stands as Central Ohio's oldest Italian-American social and service organization. The City of Columbus issued a charter to recognize this community of business and professional men dedicated to preserving Italian heritage, fostering camaraderie, and engaging in charitable activities. Soon after its founding, a Ladies Auxiliary joined the club’s mission, underscoring its family-centered ethos.

The club is named after the Piave River, a historic site in northeast Italy where, in the spring of 1918, the Italian army defended against the Austro-Hungarian forces in a decisive World War I battle. Inspired by this victory, the club’s founders honored the resilience of their Italian roots by choosing the name "Piave."

**Legacy and Milestones**

The Piave Club has played a vital role in Columbus' cultural and historical landscape. In 1955, under the leadership of President John Bruno, the club advocated for a sister city relationship with Genoa, Italy. This collaboration brought the iconic Christopher Columbus Statue from the mayor of Genoa, now proudly displayed at Columbus City Hall. For decades, the club led Columbus Day celebrations, marking its commitment to Italian-American heritage. In 2005, the Piave Club commemorated the statue’s 50th anniversary with a wreath-laying ceremony on Columbus Day.

**Events and Community Engagement**

The Piave Club and the Contino brothers launched the Columbus Italian Festival Parade in 2007, spotlighting local high school bands in a spirited competition with cash awards. The club has also supported the Columbus Italian Festival at Saint John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church in Italian Village, fostering a deep connection to the community.

In 2009, member Norman Young collaborated with the City of Columbus to establish the Columbus Day Memorial Monument at Saint John the Baptist Church. This monument honors past grand marshals of the Columbus Day Parade. By 2010, the parade expanded its route from Goodale Park to the festival grounds, enhancing its role as a community celebration.

With over a century of commitment to cultural preservation and community service, the Piave Club remains a cherished institution, celebrating Italian-American heritage and values in Columbus.