Old World Immigrants

Abstract

During this tale, Father Constantine conducts a funeral service for Herikula Zaharias, a long-time member of his congregation. After delivering his incensed-filled eulogy, Father Constantine recalls the circumstances surrounding her immigration to Virginia from Samos, Greece, and life in America with her husband, Lombros, after their arranged marriage in 1924. Among other things, Father Constantine points out that while Samos is known for its beautiful women, Mrs. Zaharias' culinary skills even surpassed her great beauty. He also notes that by all counts their marriage was a successful one, although as was customary at the time, it was arranged. The funeral service ends at Riverview Cemetery, which is wedged between the city's larger white Protestant and black graveyards, with Lombros saying “goodnight” to his wife of 34 years for the last time.