The recent election of Pope Leone XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, has sparked significant interest regarding his ancestral roots, particularly in Italy. Investigations into his family history suggest a fascinating lineage that traces back to the small village of Settimo Rottaro in the Canavese region of Piedmont. This investigation has revealed that the Pope's grandfather, Jean Lanti Prevost, was reportedly born in Turin in 1876 and later emigrated to the United States.
Jean Lanti Prevost's journey began when he married Suzanne Louise Marie Fabre before moving across the Atlantic, where their son, Louis Marius, was born in Chicago in 1920. The family’s story, rich with European heritage, reflects a blend of cultures, including Italian, French, and Spanish influences. This multicultural background has not only piqued the interest of genealogists but has also captured the attention of the media and the public alike.
According to sources, Jean Lanti Prevost died in Cook, Illinois, in 1960. The 1950 U.S. census records show that a John R. Prevost, born in Italy, lived in Chicago with his French wife, Suzanne Fabre. This connection to the census has provided a crucial link in tracing the family lineage, suggesting that the name Prevost may have originated from the Italian Prevosto, which was likely modified during their immigration process.
Settimo Rottaro's mayor, Massimo Ottogalli, has been actively involved in verifying the claims about the Pope's ancestry. He mentioned that numerous reports have surfaced since the Pope's election, leading local officials to delve into municipal and parish records. “We have received several reports regarding this matter and are currently checking the town and parish registers,” Ottogalli stated. This local investigation aims to confirm whether Giovanni Prevosto, who left Settimo Rottaro between the late 1800s and early 1900s, could indeed be the Pope's ancestor.
Interestingly, the Ellis Island Foundation's archives list a Giovanni Prevosto who departed from Settimo Rottaro on the ship La Bretagne, which sailed from Havre to New York on April 6, 1903. This record adds another piece to the puzzle, as it indicates that Giovanni may have settled in the U.S. after emigrating from Italy. The digital archives of Ellis Island have become invaluable for those researching their family histories, especially for individuals like Ottogalli, who are keen to uncover the Pope's familial ties.
As the investigation continues, the community of Settimo Rottaro has begun to embrace the possibility of being linked to the Vatican. The excitement is palpable, with residents reminiscing about their family histories and sharing stories passed down through generations. “There are many residents here with the surname Prevosto, and while we have yet to confirm any direct connection to the Pope, the ongoing research is promising,” Ottogalli added.
Moreover, the Pope's great-grandfather, Jacques Martino, is believed to have been born in Sanremo, Liguria, in 1806 before emigrating to Louisiana, where he passed away in 1852. This connection to the Italian peninsula has further fueled discussions about the Pope’s heritage, especially in light of his role as the second consecutive pontiff with Italian roots, following Pope Francis.
With roots that intertwine across continents, Pope Leone XIV's ancestry reflects a broader narrative of migration and cultural exchange. His maternal grandfather, Joseph Martinez, moved to Chicago in 1910, and his maternal grandmother, Suzanne Fontaine, hailed from Le Havre, France. This diverse family background showcases a rich tapestry of influences that shape the Pope's identity.
As researchers sift through historical documents and family trees, they uncover a story that is not just about one individual but about the collective experiences of countless immigrants who sought new beginnings in America. The Ellis Island Foundation plays a significant role in preserving these histories, having digitized millions of records that allow individuals to trace their ancestry back to their roots.
In the context of modern discussions about identity and belonging, the Pope’s heritage raises questions about the significance of his Italian roots in relation to his papacy. As the first American Pope, Leone XIV embodies a unique blend of cultures that resonates with many in today's global society.
While the search for definitive proof of the Pope's Italian ancestry continues, the excitement in Settimo Rottaro and beyond highlights the importance of understanding one’s heritage. The possibility of a connection to the Vatican is not just a point of pride for the residents but also a reminder of the enduring legacy of migration and the stories that bind us together.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful that they might uncover a definitive link to Pope Leone XIV. Whether or not this connection is fully established, the journey of discovery itself has already begun to weave a new chapter in the story of Settimo Rottaro, linking it to the heart of the Catholic Church.
