Posted by Joshua Finkelman-Mahoney '23
The story begins at 42 Oak St., the Bencivenga family childhood home. Josie’s mother learned the practice of removing the evil eye from her own mother. In turn, Josie’s mother taught the custom to Josie and her sisters. Throughout her time on the West Side, Josie and her sister, Louise Bencivenga Signor, became well known among neighbors for their ability to remove the evil eye. Italian-Americans and probably other people from the neighborhood sought out their help. Josie and Lousie practiced Catholicism, and they believed that removing the evil eye helped them serve their community. Even though some younger members of the Bencivenga family believed that the practice went against the values of the Catholic Church, Josie and Lousie thought that their abilities aided the community.
Josie, who was always a community oriented person, participated in many civic and religious organizations, believed that being an upstanding member of the community always came first. Even in her later years, Josie wanted to teach anyone who was willing to learn. Sitting in the living room of 54 Oak St. during the interview, Josie offered to teach Lee, who was Louise’s daughter-in-law, the practices of removing the evil eye, but only on Christmas Eve.
Realtor.com. 2021. “54 Oak St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, presented by Alyssa Prehoda,” Realtor.com. Accessed December 2021. Online: https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/54-Oak-St_Saratoga-Springs_NY_12866_M34171-81685
The Saratogian. 2002. “Obituaries: Josephine Mary Fiore” Aug. 3, 2002. The Saratogian. Accessed: December 14th, 2021. Online: https://www.saratogian.com/2002/08/03/obituaries-aug-3-2002/