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Taneytown History

The legacy of Annette "The Pasta Lady" Velleggia

David Buie

(1/2025) Taneytown, a small yet historically rich community, holds an unexpected connection to Baltimore's vibrant Little Italy through Annette Elizabeth Velleggia, affectionately known as the "Pasta Lady." Born in Baltimore and raised on Exeter Street, Annette was the daughter of Leonard Leonardi and Victoria "Rose" Cortezzi. Her father's seafood restaurant in Taneytown bridged her family's legacy between rural Taneytown and Baltimore's urban Italian American enclave.

In the 1970s, Leonardi's restaurant operated first at 3 York Street and later reopened across the street at 1 York Street. With seating for 75 downstairs and 125 in the upstairs banquet room, Leonardi's served Italian and American seafood dishes alongside crabs. At the time, it was one of only two establishments in Taneytown, along with Fitzgerald's Havilah, licensed to sell alcohol. The restaurant employed five staff members and was part of a network of restaurants Leonard owned across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. This dual connection to the city and countryside laid the foundation for Annette's remarkable culinary journey.

Annette's education at St. Michael's Commercial School equipped her with the business skills that would be instrumental in her career. She began her working life at the Slaysman machinist firm in East Baltimore before meeting her future husband, Frank M. Velleggia Sr. Their love story blossomed in the streets of Little Italy and culminated in their marriage in 1960.

The Velleggias' culinary journey started when Annette began supporting her husband in the family's High Street restaurant and tavern, founded by Frank's father in 1937. Annette, a natural leader and multitasker, managed bookkeeping and operations while raising their children. In 1970, Annette and Frank joined forces with Leonardi family members to launch Casa di Pasta, a fresh pasta manufacturing business. Based in a small plant on Albemarle Street, the company supplied freshly made pasta to restaurants in Baltimore, Ocean City, and Washington, D.C.

Casa di Pasta quickly became renowned for its dedication to quality. A 1981 Baltimore Sun article highlighted how the factory could transform simple ingredients into steaming lasagna in under two hours. Annette, the driving force behind this operation, oversaw the production of 120 pounds of pasta daily. Each day had its rhythm: macaroni and ravioli on Monday, lasagna on Tuesday, and other weekly varieties.

Beyond her technical expertise, Annette's kindness and generosity were the hallmarks of her character. Former employee Anna Brotto recalled, "She made working there a pleasant experience. She was generous and always had something ready to hand you." These personal touches endeared her to employees and customers, making Casa di Pasta a cherished institution.

Annette's nickname, the "Pasta Lady," became synonymous with her unwavering dedication to her craft and community. Whether she was supplying pasta for festivals or offering hot meals to those in need, her contributions extended far beyond business. Her daughter, Maria Tilley of Reisterstown, described her as a figure of inspiration in the restaurant industry. Annette's legacy continues through her family's culinary traditions, as her recipes remain central to their lives today.

Annette's vibrant personality and unfiltered honesty made her the heart of her family. Balancing tradition with modernity, she kept in touch with relatives via email and Facebook. Her grandson, Frank "Trey" Velleggia III, fondly remembered her thoughtfulness, sharing stories of offering gas money to anyone in need and always having a pot of her famous spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. These personal qualities made her more than just a successful businesswoman; they made her a beloved figure in her community.

Her role as a matriarch extended beyond her immediate family to her community, fostering a sense of familial warmth wherever she went. Annette's support of her family's activities was unwavering. From her son's baseball games at the University of Alabama to her grandson's minor league matches with the Aberdeen IronBirds, she was always in the stands, cheering them on. Summers at the family's Ventnor City, N.J., home were filled with gatherings that blended relatives and friends with loyal past customers. These family gatherings reflected Annette's values of community and togetherness.

Annette Velleggia's story intertwines the rich traditions of Taneytown and Little Italy, demonstrating how one woman's dedication to family, community, and craft can leave an enduring legacy. Her life as the "Pasta Lady" bridged two seemingly distant worlds, showing the power of heritage, hard work, and generosity. Annette's memory inspires future generations to embrace their roots and share their gifts with the world.

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