Friday, May 25, 2012

Caroline Moniz

Caroline Moniz 
Caroline was the third child and third daughter of Rufino Moniz Junior (grandfather) and Maria do Rosairo. Caroline's maternal grandparents were, Jose Monteiro Joaquim and Augusta of the Rosary. Her paternal granparents were Rufino Moniz Senior and Maria de Freitas. She was born in the parish of Santa Luzia, on July 13, 1903, and baptized on 8/23/1903. 
Caroline would migrate to America many years later in 1962. She was left in the care of her doting godmother Maria, who was grandfather's sister. Maria never had any children of her own and simply could not let Caroline go to America in 1920 with the rest of her family. Caroline would spend her early years in Santa Cruz, Madeira while pursuing her education. She became a teacher. She was awarded the Medal of Public Education by the Portuguese Government on June 10, 1981. 
Caroline has one son, Anibal Tristao Moniz, born on June 16, 1945. His twin sister would pass at birth. 
Anibal would follow his mother to America in April of 1963. Both lived with my parents until proper housing was found for them. A bit crowed, however, interesting! There were 10 of us in a three bedroom two bath house! I remember that Aunt Caroline loved embroidery. She would sit for many hours enjoying her craft. She was a robust woman. Her light brown hair was always neatly fashioned into a bun. She had the whitest and most beautiful skin, accompanied by the rosiest cheeks that I ever saw.
Anibal, her son, married Gabriella. They have one son, John Moniz.
John recently married Erin Bancroft Gordon. Together they have Caroline's great-grandaughter, Sophia Caroline, just a few months old. 
Caroline would pass on July 18, 1988, at the age of 85. 
Her son, Anibal and his family reside in New Bedford, Massachusetts. 
More information on Caroline coming soon. If anyone has a story or interesting facts to share please let me know!

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