Interests

BASQUE HALL OF FAME
Every year the Society recognizes individuals and organizations
that have contributed positively to the Basque image in the world.

Francois Bidaurreta, the youngest of four children, was born in Esnazu, Baxe Nafarroa, Euskal Herria. By the age of thirteen, he was involved with Pilota, Aldude Klika and he also participated in Antzetkias (Basque Plays). At nineteen, he was drafted into the French military and served the French army for eighteen months. By the age of twenty one, he immigrated to the United States, Marin County, California. He worked for several years in American industry, installing roads, utilities and landscaping before he decided to open his own landscaping business, which has been running for thirty years and is still operating today.

In 1981, he married Esther Antxustegi of Mountain Home Idaho. They had two children, a daughter, Olivia and a son, Nicholas. They now live in Petaluma, California. As soon as Francois arrived at the Bay Area, he joined the Basque Club and has been a steady member ever since. Shortly after, he joined the Klika, became the Makilari and appeared in numerous Basque functions. In the early 1970's, he was a member of the Board of Directors for the Basque Club of California and was elected President. The Board also nominated him to be the Esku Pilota director, a position he held for six years. At the same time, Francois, along with Andre Larre, started an Ikaspilota program for children. Unfortunately, the small fronton was closed, but Francois did not give up. Along with several others, he realized his dream - a club house with a fronton, today known as the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center.

Francois held the first Pilota Chair position for the North American Basque Organizations (NABO) and worked with others to form the US Federation of Pilota (USFP) which has become the official US Federation by the International Federation of Pilota. He served as the president and still today he is a director. He has been honored by the Pilotarien Biltzarra Organization for promoting Pilota. Throughout the years he has served diligently as Board Member, President, and Pilota Chairman for the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center. And even today, he volunteers to serve on the Buildings and Grounds committee. After holding the chair position for several years, Francois continues as director on the board of the Basque Educational Organization (BEO), a charitable organization that promotes Basque identity to the general public. Currently he is working with the committee on the San Francisco Bay Area Urazandi project.

Francois Bidaurreta is recognized today for his loyal support and promotion of Basque Culture and Identity.

Johnny Curutchet was born in San Francisco to parents who came from Ezterentzubi, a village in Lower Navarre. Six months after, the family traveled back to the Basque Country to pick up their two boys that they had left temporarily with a relative in Ezterentzubi. The plan, however, was delayed by World War II. Johnny was nineteen when he finally came to California and settled in South San Francisco, where he lives today. He joined the San Francisco Basque Club the day after he arrived. He began dancing with the Zazpiak Bat dance group, joined the Klika and still continues to this day. He enjoyed his involvement with Antzetkias (Basque plays) and taught Pilota and Klika to young Basques. In 1979 he, along with others, started the organization of the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center. He was one of the first founding members and also a member of the first Board of Directors. He continued serving on the Board of Directors for both the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center and the Basque Club of San Francisco and served as President for both organizations. Even today he participates in the local Basque Choir, Elgarrekin. He took a job in the produce industry and later purchased a small gardening route which eventually developed into the landscape gardening business that he runs with five employees today.

In 1977 he attended a Basque Club social event at Notre Dame des Victoires' church where he met Mary Kelly. They were married the following year. They have two sons, Thomas and Michael. Mary immediately embraced the Basque culture and strongly supported the events of the Basque Cultural Center's women's club and served as director of the San Francisco Basque Club.

As a youngster in Ezterentzubi, Johnny was attracted to the songs of his father and songs of bertsolaris. He would ride his bicycle to Eiheralarre (St. Michel) to listen to the Bertso performances. He started singing Bertsos in San Francisco among his family and friends. Fellow bertsolaris, Jesus Arriada and Gratien Alfaro, often performed with him. He became a regular at the San Francisco Basque Functions and at NABO's annual Kantari Eguna celebrations. In 2003, he had the honor, along with three other US Bertsolaris, to receive the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship, which is the nation's highest honor in folk and traditional arts. This spring, in New York City, he sang Bertsos with Gracian Alfaro, Jesus Goni and Martin Goicoechea at the People's Poetry Gathering poetry festival, which promotes poetry in mother tongues and English that come from the world's endangered and contested languages.

Johnny Curutchet is honored today for receiving our Nation's highest award in folk and traditional arts and promoting Basque Culture and Identity.

Frederic Fuldain, one of six children, was born in Lanttonea, Bidarrai to Victor Fuldain, (originally from Berriz, Bizkaia) and Marieanne Rose Anchordoquy, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina (parents from Bidarrai, Baxenabarre). At the age of twelve, Frederic passed the "Certificat d'Etudes Primaire" and went to work at the family farm and the mines of Bidarrai. At the age of twenty he joined the French Army and became a paratrooper at the base in Pau. As soon as his military duty ended, he immigrated to Bakersfield, California. He worked as a sheepherder for three years until he made a visit to San Francisco, where he stayed, and finally started his own landscaping business.

Frederic enjoyed hiking, fishing and hunting with his friends. Notorious for his passion for reading, writing, and archiving Basque items, he was dedicated to promoting Basque culture. He played a key role in the formation of the San Francisco Basque Club's Zazpiak Bat dance group and the Zazpiak Bat Klika. With Pierre Erreca, he organized the San Francisco Basque Club's first mus tournament and the first Basque Club Pilota tournament in Stockton, California. He, with many friends, was determined to build a functioning fronton. Frederic was very persistent. He managed to get proper documents from the City Government and the fronton was used until 1979. San Francisco was a hub of Basque activities in the 1970's. Many Basques were immigrating to California and the flame of Basque Culture was lit. Frederic started an exchange of cultures, dancing, Klika and Pilota, with other Basque Clubs including Los Banos, Chino, Bakersfield and Elko.

Frederic had another dimension to his character and personality; he had a creative talent which some described as "hands of gold." He was an excellent wood sculptor. He made a beautiful replica of a typical Basque kitchen and a fireplace mantel depicting the emblems of the seven Basque Provinces. He sculpted many Basque objects and mantels and made banners, flags and covered handballs which he shared with his friends. The furniture that he made is today at the entrance of the dining room of the Basque Cultural Center's restaurant.

He received many medals and awards during his 30 years as Honorary President of the Basque Club. Frederic passed away at the age of 76. He did have the pleasure of seeing most of his dreams become realities: folklore, choir, International Mus, International Handball, Udaleku, Euskara classes, creation of NABO and Euskal Etxea, and the development and spread of Basque culture at the Basque Cultural Center and Basque Educational Organization to be preserved and promoted.

Frederic Fuldain is honored at the 26th Basque Hall of Fame for his creative talents and for promoting Basque culture and identity

Anna Etchehandy Iriartborde was born in Eiheralarre, Baxenabarre and grew up with four brothers and one sister. At thirteen she left school to work on the family farm and, during summer months, at restaurants and hotels. She had no intention of moving to America until she met Ganix. He had been working in San Francisco and after eleven years decided to vacation back to the Basque Country. They met, instantly fell in love, and married within four months. They moved to San Francisco where their son Robert was born. Robert married Teresa and they have a nine year old son, Gene, and a six year old daughter, Rene.

Ganix and Anna took over the Hotel Des Alpes, a boarding house in San Francisco. It had belonged to Ganix's cousins who retired. The boarding house was filled with young Basque men. On Sundays they were busy with the day's menu and after they would play Pilota at the fronton. When the games ended most families returned to Des Alpes. Anna and Ganix were especially helpful to their young boarders in matters of immigration sponsorship, transportation, networking their boarders with prospective employers, trips to doctors, acting as witnesses for US citizenship, etc. At times, they offered their boarders room and board until they secured employment. After selling Hotel Des Alpes in 1975, the couple operated the Sea Captain Motel for another eight years. They made an important contribution to the welfare of many needy Basque immigrants.

As the years passed, Anna kept detailed records of Basque activities in San Francisco and the Basque Community such as letters, newspaper clippings, magazines, programs, photographs, books and videos. Her contribution as the historian of Basque activities has been especially important for future generations. She served as Board Director of the San Francisco Basque Club and San Francisco's Basque Educational Organization. Also, she is a member of the Elgarrekin Basque Choir and has participated in Basque Theater pieces. In 1982, when the Basque Cultural Center opened its doors, Anna and Ganix were persuaded to start the management of the new restaurant. For the first few months, they had their ups and downs, but with the help of a dedicated staff and many volunteers, they were able to transition the management of the restaurant to a new manager with all bills paid, funds left over, and a healthy inventory of goods. Ever since, the restaurant has had a great track record.

Today, Anna is involved in the Urazandi project, which seeks to document the immigration experience of Basques to the Bay Area, as well as the creation and evolution of the local Basque Communities and clubs. Along with other members, Anna is busy with the Basque Cultural Center's twenty fifth anniversary book.

Anna Iriartborde is honored at the 26th Basque Hall of Fame for her contribution to Basque welfare and identity.

Jacques Unhassobiscay, born in Etxeparia, Behorlegi, was one of four brothers. He served in the French military in Dax and Bayonne, and just before the Algerian conflict, he was released after an accident in which he suffered a broken leg. Complying with his father's wishes, he was to take over a farm in Behorlegi. Jacques felt that his life should be elsewhere, but he did not know where. When he was twenty four years old, the family farm house needed extensive repairs. He convinced his father that he should go to the United States so that he could pay off the heavy debt (equivalent of $2000. US dollars) and come back as soon as possible.

His first stop was Chino in Southern California where he worked milking cows and then he moved to San Francisco working as a gardener. In a short time he started his own landscaping business. He worked long hours until he was able to keep his promise and send back enough money for the repairs to the farm house. But, he decided to stay in San Francisco. His gardening business grew and eventually employed ten workers.

Jacques met Dorothy Furlanic, a young Italian woman from Santa Clara, at an Italian dance. They married and had three children, Jacqueline, Daniel and Marc. Jacques and Dorothy decided that they would educate their children in the Basque Country. They bought land in Lapurdi and Jacques found out how difficult it was to provide for a family of five only by

sheepherding and selling milk. He started a gardening business in the Basque Country which was successful for many years.

Jacques’ involvement with the Basque community of San Francisco has been remarkable:

President, Director and NABO delegate of the San Francisco Basque Club (1968-1979) one of the founders and also President, and Delegate of NABO; founding director, Director and President of San Francisco Basque Cultural Center (1979-1982); Founding Director of 599 Railroad Catering, Inc. operating at the San Francisco Basque Cultural Center; Director of the Antzerkia group (Basque Plays) and member of Zazpiak Bat dancers, Zazpiak Bat Klika and Elgarrekin Basque Choir; President, Director and a founder of the US Pilota Federation; Chairman and Executive Director of FIPV (Federacion Internacional de Pelota Vasca).

As the third president during the formative years of NABO, he was instrumental in getting Basque clubs to join and to understand the value of Basque culture. Membership grew. He connected with people of all levels and talents: dignitaries, artists, entertainers, politicians sportsmen, etc. His vision strongly impacted Basque culture in the United States. Jacques died in 2002 at the age of 64.

Jacques Unhassobiscay is honored today for his diligence in promoting Basque culture and identity.

Mission: To perpetuate, to preserve and to promote awareness of Basque history and culture through education, research, collections and social activities for present and future generations.

Established in 1985 under the direction of Adelia Garro Simplot, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center (BMCC) has been expanding for over 20 years. It originated in the historic Cyrus Jacobs/Uberuaga House, Boise's oldest surviving brick home, which was built in 1864 by early pioneers and later used as a Basque boardinghouse. Thousands of tourists and students make use of its services. An expansion took place in 1988 when the BMCC acquired property at 611 Grove Street, its current location. The primary functions of the organization were established there in 1993 and since then the museum's collection has grown to include valuable photographs, scrapbooks, collections of oral histories, interviews from immigrant Basques, a library that includes a special Basque collection from the University of Idaho, manuscripts, videos, and a myriad of artifacts from the West and abroad. The expanding museum store disseminates information about Basque history and culture and sells specialty items imported from the Basque Country. Yet another opportunity to preserve a historic building appeared, and the museum negotiated a land transfer to acquire additional property on the block. As the saying goes,” opportunities multiply as they are seized, they die when neglected." Dan Ansotegui introduced Basques' culinary fare by opening the Gernika Pub and Eatery in 1991. In 2000, the BMCC took the lead to redesign the street and a new historic and cultural destination was created.

The Basque Block is today a unique area in the heart of the capital city, open to the local community and to tourists around the world. The future is bright for the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. The Society of Basque Studies in America recognizes its valuable contribution to Basque culture and identity.

Patty Miller was born in Boise, Idaho in 1961 to parents Thomas A. Miller and Josephine Lecona Elorrieta. At age fourteen, her mother changed the path of Patty’s life by joining the Euzkaldunak Basque organization and informing Patty that she could now become a dancer by attending the Basque dance classes. Reluctantly, Patty attended the first practice and met what would be lifetime friends and learned about her ancestral culture. She attended Boise schools and graduated from the University of Idaho with degrees in Spanish and Political Science. Her first work included teaching a year in Bogotá, Colombia, five years with Medicare, and three years assisting junior high students in rural communities. Since that time, Patty has been working at the museum as a Board Member and in 1993 accepted the position of Executive Director upon the request of the Board. She has promoted and given presentations for the museum.

Patty is proud of museum projects in which she, as well as others, were engaged: Basque Music of Boise, the Basque Block Street Redesign, LAIAK public art sculptures, granite sidewalk pieces, the Basque mural, Inner Strength Portraits of Basque Immigrant Women with oral history interviews, Lasting Legacy signs on the Basque Block and the restoration of the historic Cyrus Jacobs Uberuaga House. The favorite aspect of Patty’s work has been her interaction with people. We thank Patty Miller for her leadership role in creating the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. We honor her for her valuable contribution to Basque culture and identity.

Albert Erquiaga, also known as Al, was born in Boise, Idaho in 1935. His father, Tomas Erquiaga was born in Ispaster, Bizkaia and his mother, Anita Echevarria Erquiaga in Boise, Idaho. As a child, he and his sister Alice learned Basque folk songs and dances at home, in the kitchen, as their father sang and clapped rhythms for his two children. When in their teens, both children were enrolled in Juanita Hormaechea's Basque Jota dance classes. In 1960, Al traveled to Euzkadi with a small group of young Boise Basques and after joining a dance group in Donosti, he and his friends founded the Oinkari Basque Dancers in Boise. Al served as co-Director and then as Director of the group for nine years. The well-known Oinkari Basque Dancers are still dancing today!

Besides his artistic talents, his exceptional leadership and organizing qualities began to surface. He served as Treasurer for 'Boise Music Week' and Chair of 'Fiesta Night', and in 1973 he became the first President of North American Basque Organizations (NABO). In 1977, the "Idaho Statesman" named Al as one of 'Idaho's Famous People', recognizing his tremendous service to Basque related cultural organizations. The accolades did not end here for he was honored again by NABO in 1976 as "Basque of the Year" and again in 2002 he received the 'NABO Lifetime Contribution Award for the Promotion of Basque-American Heritage'.

Without mentioning all the organizations in which he was a director and an active, participating member, we learn that he joined the Biotzetik Basque Choir in 1988 and is now serving his 4th term as President. He has toured with the Choir to Euzkadi, Oregon, Washington and Vancouver, BC. We notice that even though he was a Board member of Euzkaldunak, Inc. as early as 1973, he received the 'Euzkaldunak Lifetime Legacy Award’ for outstanding contributions to Euzkaldunak, Inc.last year. Obviously, you cannot hold back a great leader. He is now fundraising for the 20th year anniversary Euzkadi tour in 2006. We honor him today for his steadfast contribution to Basque culture and identity.

Mari Carmen, born in Gernika, Bizkaia in 1932, was the eldest of six children. She survived the Spanish Civil War bombing of Gernika in April 1937 by escaping into the forest and hiding with her mother and younger brother. She worked for Taberna Vasca, hotel and restaurant in Gernika, and later married Teodoro Totoricagüena in 1952 before emigrating to the United States. The marriage produced eight children: Dolores, Tony, Carmen, Rosa Mari, Gloria, Ted, Miguel Angel, Teresa and ten grandchildren.

Mrs. Totorica and her husband were founding members of Anaiak Danok, organizing fundraisers and care packages for destitute Basque families exiled by dictator Franco in Iparraalde. She also raised money for charity cases of Basques in the Boise valley. Mari Carmen participated in the Anaiak Danok Basque Choir and was the first teacher, together with Jon Onatibia and Julie Bilbao, of Boise's first ikastola for children. In addition, she was elected to the Euzkaldunak, Inc., Board of Directors and in 1979 was elected President. She initiated educational lessons in dance, mus, briska, Euskera, singing, cooking and accordion and also served as liaison and translator for the Gernika City Council and its Mayor with the City of Boise and the Euzkaldunak, Inc.

For 30 years she has been a volunteer for the Boise School District and for 28 years she has volunteered service for the Euzkaldunak, Inc. as a teacher for Basque singing in the young children's group. She helped to organize the Bihotzetik Basque Choir with Dave and Chris Bieter and continues to perform in the Choir. Her initiative and contributions have helped several generations to appreciate Basque culture and identity.

Martin Goicoechea was born in Gorriti, Nafarroa, Basque Country in 1948. He was the fifth of ten children born to Santos and Mikaela Goikoetxea. When he was 18, he came to the United States to work on a sheep ranch for three years, but decided to stay. He arrived in Rock Springs and after his training at various ranches, he was given a contract of three years with a responsibility to tend 8,000 head of sheep, including lambs, year round and double the number in the summer. He worked at the ranch for ten years. In 1975, he married Georgia Gaviotis and they had two sons, Santos and Mikel.

Martin tried his hand at various fields: oil service, butcher shop, real estate and car sales. He made an impression on the Ford Motor Company by selling a green truck, Ford F-150 that nobody wanted. He went on to become the general manager of the Ford-Lincoln-Mercury-Nissan dealership. Today he owns his own car dealership. In July 1997 he married Veronica Jaramillo in Saratoga, Wyoming. They have one daughter, Mikaela.

Martin has a parallel life in artistic and cultural ventures. From an early age of about 8, he became fascinated by the songs of bertsolaris. When he was 12, he sang at a dinner where he made such an impression that he was invited to different occasions and became popular in the Nafarroa region. After coming to the United States, he was a mute bertsolari for 20 years. He sang verses to himself. In 1991 he decided to sing at Kantari Eguna in Gardnerville. He was so successful, he has been singing ever since. In 2003, Martin was one of four bertsolaris from the United States who was awarded the National Endowment for the Arts, National Heritage Award. In the cultural arena he has taught Basque Language classes and initiated the Alkartasuna Basque Club in Southwest Wyoming in 1990. He has served in directorship positions including President for the last 15 years. As a NABO delegate, he has been the Euskara (Language) Preservation chairman for the last 5 years. He is honored today for his contribution to Basque culture and identity.

Antonio Campos, better known as Tony, came from Navarre at the age of 17 to tend sheep. Juliet Campos was born in Chino to John and Grace Robidart, owners of Centro Vasco Hotel and Restaurant. In her earlier years, Juliet learned Basque dancing which became her lifelong passion. When the Fresno Basque Club opened in 1978, she and Tony organized a dance group of 36 children. Today the offspring of those children are dancing with the Club's present dance group.

Tony has served as Officer and Director on the Club’s Board over the years, as has Juliet, and he is presently the Club representative at NABO. He was one of the original founders of the Fresno Basque Club as well as a successful fundraiser on the Club’s behalf. Property was purchased for a Basque Club, and later, funds were used to provide educational scholarships. For over 24 years, Juliet has written articles on Basque culture in the annual fundraising program booklet for the Club. The Campos Bros. Farms have provided summer jobs for local youth and visiting Basque student trainees.

In 2003, Bishop John Steinbock honored the couple at his Annual Gala Dinner. Father Michael Lastiri made the presentation focusing on their involvement with the Basque Club and praising them for inspiring young people to appreciate their heritage. Juliet and Antonio are an outstanding team and together they have passed on Basque traditions to future generations.

Victor Felix Esain was born in Fresno, California. His father Felix came from Navarre and his mother Lyda was born in Fresno. Victor has the distinction of being the only offspring whose mother is also an honoree of the Basque Hall of Fame (1991). Victor, an only child, spent his youth in two Basque Hotels. He played baseball during his years at Edison High School and Fresno Junior College. He also played Pelota (Pala Corta) on handball courts at the Basque Hotel. He served as Corporal in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Victor, for forty two years, was the bartender at his parents’ Villa Basque Restaurant.

Victor married Ida Sue Cleveland and had one son, Michael Victor Esain. Years later, he married Audrey Werner and lived with her until her death in 1991. He has two grandsons, Nicholas Delgado and Jonathon Bentley.

In December 1977, an auspicious meeting took place. Victor, Francois Pedeflous, Raymond Bachoc, Ernest Fordin and Tony Campos formed the Fresno Basque Club. Victor has served as President, Vice President and Director over a period of years. In 1979, Victor started the first Mus Tournament in Fresno and to this date is still Chair. He became a delegate of the Fresno Basque Club to NABO from 1979-2001. For twenty years he helped Pierre Etcharren and Jean Baptiste Aguerre organize tournaments. In 2000, he was appointed NABO Mus Chair. He has been involved in 25 national tournaments and 10 international tournaments. Victor is recognized for his steady, optimistic and determined dedication to Basque sports, games and traditions.

Benita Serrano Garcia was born on a sheep ranch in the Huron/Coalinga area. She was the youngest of seven children. She attended a year at the Junior College in Coalinga and during World War II, she worked as a welder and burner. She married John P. Idiart in 1947 and they had two children, Michael and Linda. The family moved to Fresno where Benita was involved in running the Yturri Basque Hotel.

Years later she married Segundo Garcia and they had a daughter, Rose Mary. The family purchased and resided in the Santa Fe Hotel. Benita became a second mother to the young Basque sheep herders. Benita found employment for young people either at her hotel or other businesses in the community.

In 1975 Benita and Segundo sold the Santa Fe Hotel, but continued as active members of the Fresno Basque Club. Benita and her friend Lyda Esain were primary fundraisers for the club. She served for years on the Fresno Planning Commission and on the Fresno Housing and Community Development Commission. Three different Mayors of Fresno recognized her knowledge and commitment. Benita is now 80 years young and a Club Honorary member. She cares for her ailing husband, does her house and yard work, entertains her children and grandchildren, cooks and tells stories of the old days. In addition, she walks two miles every morning, prepares breakfast and then goes to swim at a health club. Benita is recognized for her dedication to Basque culture, welfare and identity.

Anna Biscay Harguindeguy was born in Fresno County. She worked for a Title Company as an officer and Notary. She married Pierre Harguindeguy from Iholdy. Throughout her marriage to Pierre, she helped him with sheepherding and farming. Now at age 82, she still runs the business with her daughters, Marianne, Jeanne and Yvonne.

During a span of forty years, Anna prepared sponsorship papers for many immigrants. Anna has interpreted written Basque documents for relatives and employees, for the Fresno Public Library and for the area Hospitals. In addition, she is an official Basque interpreter for Fresno County. She also finds time to assist Father Marcel Tillous of San Francisco to circulate Basque cultural news. She has served as the Director of the Fresno Basque Club and has been responsible at the Club for the organization and planning of Basque masses. She is now an Honorary member of the Club.

Throughout her life, she has helped Basques in the United States to unravel their problems with immigration and integration. At the same time she has maintained her close contact with her relatives in the Basque Country and still continues her dedication to farming and sheepherding. She is a model of a successful and strong Basque woman who can handle diverse tasks at different levels.

Micaela, known as Mickey, was born in a small town west of San Joaquin Valley. As a child who only spoke Basque when she entered boarding school, she graduated from Fresno State College, received her teaching credentials and taught for several years before she married Seymour Mathiesen. The couple started a family: a son, Michael and twin daughters, Agnes and Juanita. She worked on the farm and also gave active service to an incredible number of community organizations throughout her life. She raised funds, served on boards and founded organizations that looked after the needs of the less fortunate.

Mickey was called to her highest public service as a member of the California State Board of Education. Two governors, recognizing her vision and dedication, appointed her to the State College Council for 19 years. It was a testimony to her expertise and her winning personality to be appointed by both a Republican and Democrat governor. Her service has led to awards which extended from Pope John XXIII, to Outstanding Alumna of Fresno State College, to Volunteer of the Year Award of the Easter Seal Society, among others.

Above all her community services, Mickey never forgot her Basque roots nor the care of her family. She was the matriarch of her extended family. She farmed with her husband and continued after his death. She loved to play Mus and was an active and Honorary member of the Basque Club of Fresno until she died. The Society of Basque Studies in America is proud to honor her at the 2004 Hall of Fame.

23nd ANNUAL HALL OF FAME
November 2003 - New York City

ROSA, INAKI & GLORIA ABERASTURI
Steady, Loyal Working Members of Euzko-Etxea

Maria Carmen Iribar from Gernika and Pedro Aberasturi from Gauteguiz Arteaga met and married in New York City. Today we honor their three children, Mary Rose (Rosa), Inaki and Gloria. Rosa was born in Brooklyn, but when Carmen was pregnant again she returned to Euskadi to better bring up her children. Inaki was born in Arteaga shortly after. Soon after the Spanish Civil war began, she returned to New York and, thereafter, she and her children lived in New York returning to Euskadi almost annually. Pedro, who remained in America to earn a living, only made the trip back to Euskadi once, during the mid-1930s. About a decade after returning to New York, their third child, Gloria, was born. Although the parents were naturalized citizens, they instilled in their three children an appreciation of Basque language and culture. Basque was the only language spoken at home.

Was this history responsible for the years of dedication and work for Euzko-Etxea on the part of Rosa, Inaki and Gloria? We note that in the late 1950s Rosa and Inaki were active in the Youth Group and in 1957 Gloria became a member of Jon Onatibia’s Dance Group. Following the breakup of the Youth Group in 1960, due to differences with older voting members, the Aberasturis were not involved with the club for several years. In 1965, a Basque priest, Aita Jose Mari Larrinaga, on assignment in St. James parish in New York, convinced the older and younger generations to forget their differences and to contribute to the success of Euzko-Etxea. The rest is history. Inaki was elected Treasurer and has held that position ever since. In 1966, Andrak, the Ladies Auxiliary, was formed because women were not allowed to vote. Gloria became a member and thus began her years of contribution, first to Andrak, in several officer positions including President and later to Euzko-Etxea as a member and several terms as Secretary. Shortly, after, Rosa became an active member and officer of Andrak and when women were allowed to vote, she joined Euzko-Etxea.

Although the Aberasturi parents are deceased, their influence on Rosa, Inaki and Gloria is permanent. Whatever challenges are presented – be they the composition of the annual Aberri Eguna Journal, searching for building documents at the NYC Department of Buildings, welcoming visitors from Euskadi, etc. Rosa, Inaki and Gloria see it as an opportunity to further an understanding and appreciation of their Basque heritage. We honor the Aberasturi family for their contribution to Basque culture.

JUAN ANGEL LANDABURU
March 24, 1951 – Former President, Devoted to Enhancement of Membership and Facility Maintenance

Juan Angel Landaburu was born in Durango, Bizkaia. In his early years he studied with the Marist Brothers and learned Mechanical Engineering. In 1972, at the age of 21, he entered the Spanish army and was sent to serve in Ceuta, Africa for two years.

On his return to Euskadi, he met MariLuz Etxebarri from Zorontza and in 1974 married her in that same town. Soon after, they came to New York. In New York, he focused on studying English. He became the manager of a Greek owned business that specialized in heavy equipment. Ander, the first son, was born in 1977 and eight years later the beautiful daughter, Nikole, was born.

As a devoted member of Euzko-Etxea, he applied his engineering skills to improving and maintaining the facilities of the building. He was elected President and served 12 years from 1987 to 1998. During those years, he carried many responsibilities, continued his efforts not only by enhancing the building, but also by enhancing the activities and membership. The 1999 Journal of Euzko-Etxea of New York tells us why he was esteemed by the Club: “He was a leader who showed us by example, the way to achieve through hard work, often not recognized or appreciated, but always for the good of the organization. He was a friend in good times and bad – always there to listen, cajole, help and advise. He was a link with our homeland – Euskadi – being the consummate emissary with visitors and diplomats who came to the club.” Juan Angel Landaburu, always modest, is honored today for his contribution to Basque welfare.

MARIO SALEGI
Survivor of Spanish Civil War, Author, Passionately Dedicated to Survival of Basque Culture and Identity

Mario was born in San Sebastian in 1918 to Escolastica Ostolaza and Eduardo Salegi. His schooling included a specialized training in banking, mathematics and linear drawing. At 18 his ambition to attend a university to study humanities was aborted by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. He joined the Batalión Eusko Indarra, the Basque battalion, and fought for the freedom of the Basque Country until he was wounded. When Bilbao fell to the Franco forces, he left with his father to Santander hoping to evacuate by British ships. The plan fell through and he tried to escape, but he was taken prisoner by the Italian army following the Pact of Santoña. He was interned in the prison for Deusto and then consigned to forced labor in the 12^th Labor Battalion.

He was freed in 1940 to join the Franco army, but instead he joined the Basque Resistance which was wiped out by the Franco police. He escaped and for a year remained hidden. Finally with the help of some friends, he obtained papers permitting him to travel to foreign countries as a seaman.

He arrived in New York in 1941 and worked at the Basque Delegation at several jobs without papers. After Pearl Harbor, he went to London and joined a battalion of Basque fighters. The British Government did not recognize the battalion and he was forced to return to the United States where he joined the American Navy and became an American citizen in 1944. Upon his discharge, still determined to defeat Franco, he left for France to join a Basque resistance group, but it became evident that the goal to overthrow Franco was not achievable. In 1949 he studied in Mexico under the GI Bill of Rights.

His life changed when he returned to Los Angeles in 1950 to help a writer who was preparing two scripts about the Spanish Civil War. The scripts were never written because the director was one of the famous “Hollywood Ten” accused by McCarthy of being a communist. He was called before several un-American Activities Committees and denied clearance, not because they thought he was a communist, but because he was “obsessively anti-Franco.” In 1952, he met and married Miriam Nurnberg, a native New Yorker, and has since dedicated his life to writing. In the 1960’s Mario and Miriam organized CAMBIAS, Committee of Americans for Basque Survival. They published and distributed newsletters to inform the American public of Franco’s denial of Basque ethnic identity. Among his writings on the historical-political situation in the Basque Country are “Morir en Irun” and “Operación Carlomagno.” He is frequently interviewed by writers who appreciate his knowledge and passion for human rights. Today we honor Mario Salegi for his contribution to Basque identity.

22nd ANNUAL HALL OF FAME
December 2002 - Chino, CA

JOSEPHINE MAINVIL ARRIET
Steady, Working Member of Basque Organizations

Josephine Mainvil Arriet was born in San Bernardino, California. Her father, Jean Mainvil, came from Hasparren, Labourd and her mother, Frances Oses, from Errazu, Navarre. They had two children: Josephine and John. Josephine attended Chaffey College in Ontario, California and, even though times were bad during the depression years, her abilities were recognized, and the Chaffey schools employed her in the Attendance and Business Offices for 14 ½ years until she married John Arriet, a farmer, who raised cotton and alfalfa. The couple moved to Fresno, California where their daughter, Kathy, was born. Kathy had three sons and Josephine is proud of the grandsons: Brett, Phillip and Jonathan.

Josephine’s interest in Basque culture started very early when her parents took her to visit Basque friends and to attend Basque festivals. Her daughter learned Basque dances at Los Banos Basque Club and, when Fresno Basque Club opened, Josephine became a dedicated working member. Victor Esain, who was president of the club, appointed her as a delegate to her first NABO meeting in 1982 where, ever since, her steadfast presence has been noted. She has been an active member of the California and Local Woolgrowers Auxiliaries since 1960 and has been in charge of raising money for the promotion of lamb and wool for 15 years.

The Society of Basque Studies in America honors Josephine Mainvil Arriet for her years of steady devotion to supporting the culture and identity of Basques in America.

BERT APHESSETCHE
Chino Basque Club Builder & Ongoing Worker

Bert was born in 1936 in the town of Uharte-Cize in the Basque Country. Twenty years later he made the long journey here to America and he has been in the Chino area ever since. In 1965 he met his wife Danielle, and together they raised three children: Sophie, Mike and Chris. Then ten years later he became an active member of the Chino Basque Club.

There are over thirty Basque clubs/organizations in the US, and only seven of the clubs have their own facility. With a membership under 100, fifteen years ago, the Chino Basque Club took on the daunting task of building a clubhouse. Bert was one of the key instigators of this project and thanks in large part to his persistence, the Chino area Basques have a house to call their own. He oversaw fundraising as well as construction, and when necessary, he also helped to purchase the land and held it while the club worked to get all the other details together.

While paying off the building, for many years, after the monthly fundraisers, Bert cleaned pots and pans outside with a garden hose before the club added a kitchen. He has served as president and is currently the vice-president of the club. Speaking to his ongoing service, he is there at every club event working at the BBQ. He keeps at it because he wants to see the Basque heritage preserved. He is bright, generous and gregarious, a credit to our larger Basque community.

ISIDORE CAMOU
Chino Basque Club Builder & Ongoing Worker

Isidore was born in 1939 in the town of Isturiz in the Basque Country. In 1961 he came to America following his brother to southern California. Six years later he wed his sweetheart from across the river in the Basque Country, Marie Claire. Together they raised five children: Francois, Alain, Patrick, Dominique and Louise. Living in Riverside, in 1976, they went to work in the motel business. That same year he became an active member of the Chino Basque Club and went to work at the annual club picnic barbecue—he has been cooking for the club ever since!

He works every month at club fundraisers preparing meals, which is praiseworthy, but his contribution extends beyond. When the Chino club planned renovating its building a decade ago, the obstacle was the necessary funding to start the project. Isidore’s family helped to secure the financing and then he worked to pay back the loan. Some people work for the club and others contribute financially. He did both, clearly demonstrating his genuine conviction to see the Basque club prosper.

He remains committed to the club and Basque community. Repeatedly nominated as president, Isidore politely refuses because he doesn't want the limelight. A man of few words, who puts his work and money where his heart is: the promotion of our Basque heritage. Isidore is a man worthy of emulation and recognition.

AITA MARTXEL TILLOUS
Chaplain of the Basque-American Community, Dedicated Contributor and Promoter of Basque Heritage

Aita Martxel Tillous was born in 1934 in the Basque town of Eskuila in Zuberoa. Following his calling, he entered the priesthood and began work as a missionary for 26 years in Africa. Returning to Europe he served four years as the Basque chaplain for the Basque community of Paris. He came to the United States to serve as chaplain of Basque-Americans in1994.

Aita Martxel is continuing in the footsteps of earlier Basque chaplains, and he continues to fulfill an important role in our Basque-American community. His ministry as chaplain to the Basques of the United States has him criss-crossing the country averaging 60,000 miles a year! He spends 200 nights a year sleeping in his van—with the license plate “Pottoka”—as he travels from his base in San Francisco, California to the scattered Basque communities of eleven states of the American West. His purpose is to serve the spiritual needs of Basque-Americans: celebrating mass in the Basque language, baptizing, marrying Basque couples and consoling the bereaved at funerals.

Our chaplain from Zuberoa is being recognized for both his spiritual and cultural contributions. An avid txistulari, Aita Martxel is often seen and heard playing this ancient Basque flute, or its variation the xirula. For the last several years he has served as the txistu instructor at NABOs annual Udaleku (Basque Cultural Summer Camp) for youth. After a Basque picnic meal, he is always ready to join in a Basque sing-along. He also produces a newsletter, “Lokarria”, that goes out to thousands of Basque-American families thereby bringing our community closer together.

CHINO BASQUE CLUB
Provider of a Home for the Promotion of Basque Culture

The Chino Basque Club was founded in 1968 and today counts over 130 men and women members. Now in its fourth decade, the Chino Basque Club continues its efforts to preserve and promote Basque heritage. Events include periodic mus tournaments, monthly club meals at the clubhouse which are punctuated with Basque entertainment that includes handball games, music, song & dance. The clubhouse is also the home of the Gauden Bat & Dantzari Onestak Basque Dancers, the Euskal Giroa Women's Folk Ensemble, the Chino Basque Klika and the new Xori Ttipiak, little children’s group.

The club's largest event remains the annual picnic on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend at the Chino Fairgrounds. Some years ago the club celebrated its 30th anniversary and presented the "Besta Berri" celebration. The club intends to celebrate Besta Berri again this year.

21st ANNUAL HALL OF FAME
December 2001 - New York, NY

MARK KURLANSKY
December 7, 1948 - Internationally Known Author

Mark Kurlansky was born in Hartford, Connecticut on December 7, 1948, the grandson of Jewish immigrants from Central Europe. He received a BA in theater in 1970 and began a career in New York as a playwright. Although he had a number of productions his interests turned away from theater and toward journalism. During the 1970’s he worked as a correspondent in Western Europe for the Miami Herald, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and eventually the International Herald Tribune. He covered a number of pivotal events in Spanish history including the end of the Franco years and the transition years. It was during those years that he got to know and admire the Basques.

In 1982 he left Europe and moved to Mexico City where he reported on Mexico, the wars in Central America, and South America. In 1984 he began covering the Caribbean for the Chicago Tribune–reporting regularly on Haiti, Cuba, and Jamaica but also on the smaller islands. In 1992 his first book A Continent of Islands: In Search of the Caribbean Destiny was published by Addison Wesley.

He then returned to Paris to work on his next book A Chosen Few: The Resurrection of European Jewry which was published in 1995 by Addison Wesley. Although during these years he spent most of his time researching Jewish communities in Western and Central Europe, he also took time to regularly reacquaint himself with the Basque Country.

In 1997 Walker and Company published his third book Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World, an international best seller translated into more than 15 languages. In that book he wrote a great deal about Basque maritime history and found that often these were among the passages readers and reviewers found most interesting. In 1999 Walker published The Basque History of the World, which was an American and Canadian Best Seller and was translated into several European languages.

In 2000 his first book of fiction, a collection of short stories about the Caribbean, The White Man in the Tree was published by Washington Square Press. The New York Times wrote "As rich, complex, and delicious as the islands themselves, boiling with humanity." In 2001, The Cod's Tale, a children's version of his cod book was published by Putnam. Currently Walker is publishing another history book in which the Basques play an important part, Salt: A World History. He is currently working on a novel set in New York City and a history of the year 1968 around the world both to be published by Ballantine.

"I regard the work I have done on the Basques to be among my best accomplishments. To make people aware of something little known and completely misunderstood, to be able to set the record straight on a maligned people , is as good a reason for writing as I can think of," says Mark Kurlansky. He is honored for his extraordinary contribution to Basque identity and culture.

20th ANNUAL HALL OF FAME
2000 - Necoechea, Argentina

GENERAL MARIANO NECOCHEA
Hero of the Independence of Argentina who gave his name to the City of Necochea September 7, 1792 ‑ April 5, 1849

Mariano Necochea was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina into a family of comfortable means. His father, Casimiro Francisco Necochea, a shipbuilder, originally came from Urzainqui, Navarre. He died when Mariano was still a child and his mother, Maria Mercedes Saraza, sent him to be schooled in Seville, Spain. In 1810, at the age of 18, the youth returned to Argentina and found himself in the midst of the revolutionary movement for independence from Spain. In 1812 he enlisted and, under the command of San Martin, he was one of 125 grenadiers who fought in the Battle of San Lorenzo. Later, he joined the army of Alta Peru where he became famous for his extraordinary feats. He fought in the battle of Venta y Media, but he was wounded in the battle of Sipe, Sipe.

He recovered and was selected by San Martin to command the outpost of the Argentine Cavalry at the crossroads of the Andes on Chilean soil where he defeated the royalist troops. San Martin later wrote, "With a saber in his hand, he routed the enemy before him, thereby opening the entire province for the army." Again San Martin selected him to command the Corps of Chasseurs on horseback, created in June 23, 1817.

When San Martin retired, Necochea fought under Bolivar who named him Governor of Lima in 1824. In the Battle of Junin, he commanded the Cavalry and fell with 14 serious wounds. When he recovered he was named by Bolivar as director of the Government of Peru. In 1826, he was detained and accused of conspiracy against Bolivar, but was released because of lack of valid charges. He then returned to Buenos Aires, bringing his wounds with him, but not his liberating campaign. Years later he was named Chief Marshal of Military Reserve of Peru and with the passage of time, and after many battles, his health began to fail. At the age of 56, he died in Miraflores of Lima, Peru. The Society of Basque Studies in America commends General Mariano Necochea for his bravery and for his contribution to the welfare and identity of Basques in Latin America.

EUSKAL ETXEA ASOCIACION DE BENEFICENCIA Y CULTURAL (1900)
Provided schooling for Basques during 100 years

One hundred years ago, in April 1900, we first hear of the founding of Euskal Etxea, a Basque confraternity in the Republic of Argentina. It was an auspicious event that wiped out the distinction between Basques to the north and Basques to the south of the Pyrenees and united the three Basque institutions that existed at that time in Argentina: Centro Vasco Frances, Centro Navarro and Sociedad Vasco‑Espanola Laurak Bat of Buenos Aires.

The Statute that was completed on April 14, 1904 covered Cultural and Welfare concerns. The purpose of the Cultural section was to create schools and to educate Basque youth, and the purpose of the Welfare section was to give care and shelter to indigent, aged Basques and to orphans and the needy.

In June of 1904, the Women's Committee undertook the administration of schools and shelters for girls. In the following years, elementary schools were opened and classes in French, Basque and Sewing were offered. At the Hills of Zamora in the Province of Buenos Aires, a cornerstone was laid for the future school of Ninas de los Institutos de Llavallol, under the tutelage of the R. Hermanas Siervas de Maria de Anglet. In 1907 the Orden de los R. Padres Capuchinos de Navarra y Cantabria was contracted to undertake the teaching of boys.

Gradually, during the next few decades, schools were merged and many changes took place. In 1986, under the patronage of Dona Catalina Urruspuru de Dufau, President of the Women's Committee and Vice President of the Fundacion Vasco Argentina Juan de Garay, the new building of Jardin de Infantes was inaugurated. Five years after, the Seccion Primaria de Varones del Colegio de la Capital appeared followed by the Residencia San Benito which addressed the needs of the Community. In 1999, the instruction of two foreign languages was strengthened: English (Departamento de Ingles) and French (Departamento de Frances).

In summary, Euskal Etxea Asociacion de Berieficencia y Cultural has succeeded in its mission. A special note of recognition goes to the Committees of Women who have worked so diligently to respond to the needs of the Basques. The Society of Basque Studies honors Euskal Etxea Asociacion de Beneficencia y Cultural for contributing to the culture and welfare of the Basques in America.

COMITE PRO‑INMIGRACION VASCA (1940)
Benevolent organization since 1940 giving legal entry to exiled Basques

At the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1940 and the beginning of World War 11, Basque patriots were living in precarious conditions. The Basque Delegation of Buenos Aires received a plea for help from the Basque Government in exile, asking for refuge for the Basques living in such a bleak situation. It was a moment of anguish.

With the aid of engineer Jose Urbano de Aguirre, President of the Basque Delegation and the parish priest of the Basilica del Santisimo Sacramento, the first interview was held with the President of the Argentine Government, Dr. Roberto Ortiz. They were received with a warm embrace and it was decided that it was necessary to find a rapid solution to the crisis. It was most helpful that generations of compatriots had come to Argentina and had contributed to the enhancement and prosperity of the new Country.

With the help if members of the Delegation, a memorandum was written and on the following day presented to Dr. Ortiz. The legal formula was developed In the text of the document and ended with these words: "Entrance to the Country is authorized for Basques from both sides of the Pyrenees with or without documentation, preliminary authorization of the Comite for that purpose will be created." That was a solemn recognition, from the highest authorized figure of the Country, regarding the conduct of the Basque Community that had been forged under the shade of the Pyrenees and had sent its people as pioneers of liberty and grandeur.

The Society of Basque Studies in America recognizes the Comite Pro‑Inmigracion for having facilitated legal entry to the exiled undocumented Basques who had no possibility of finding refuge in any other place in the world and for having contributed to the identity and welfare of the Basques in America.

19th BASQUE HALL OF FAME
October 1999 - Brooklyn, NY

IRENE RENTERIA AGUIRRE
Dedicated Contributor to the Basque Delegation, Euzko-Etxea and the Society of Basque Studies in America (1923-1999)

Irene Aguirre was the executive secretary for the Society of Basque Studies in America for over 19 years. Her talent for keeping the membership and mailing lists up to date, her attention to detail, her ability to attend to the daily tasks and respond to all the correspondence have assured the success of our non-profit organization. She volunteered her time, effort and services and, in all her years of service, never asked for, nor accepted any compensation. Her work was an important contribution to the welfare of the Society and to the Basque community as well.

Irene was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Melchor Renteria from Bakio, Bizkaia, and Maria Vidasolo from Canala, Bizkaia. Her early education was in Brooklyn and later in Manhattan. After graduating high school, she worked for an insurance company for a brief period of time and for the next eight years she worked in the Basque delegation as Lehendakari Jose Antonio Aguirre's personal secretary. While working full time at the Delegation, she attended college at night and earned a B.B.A. in Foreign Commerce from Baruch College. She was one of the first women admitted to the former all male college. Also during those years, she was an active member of the Juventud of Centro Vasco.

She met her husband Andoni at the Delegation in 1945 when he came to New York to visit his mother. When he visited the Lehendakari, he was offered a job with the Delegation as commercial attaché, which he accepted. Irene and Andoni worked together at the Delegation and later, when they married, they continued to work together for Centro Vasco (later named to Euzko-Etxea), the Society of Basque Studies in America and as delegates for NABO. Both were deeply involved in promoting Basque identity, welfare and culture.

After raising her two children, Anna and Marty, Irene returned to the workforce. First at Kingsborough Community College and then at Social Security, where she was in a position of helping people who needed support and advice. Irene was proud of her heritage and enjoyed informing others of Basque culture and traditions. Her lifelong dream was to compile a census of all the Basques in the United States. She felt we needed closer communication with each other. Perhaps someday her dream will come to fruition.

ANDONI AGUIRRE
Dedicated Contributor to the Basque Delegation, Euzko-Etxea and the Society of Basque Studies in America(1921-1997)

Andoni Aguirre was the keeper of the books on financial matters for the Society of Basque Studies in America for over 17 years. His talent for scrutinizing every item has assured the success of the Society as a not‑for‑profit organization. He collected monies, paid bills, and kept the books balanced and never in the red. He volunteered his services and never accepted any remuneration for his services.

Andoni was born in Manila, Philippines to Martin Aguirre and Julia Achabal. He was educated both in the Philippines and Euskadi. During World War II he served in the United States Army and was stationed in the Pacific. His service included training with the Rangers (the forerunners of the Green Berets) and working in counter‑intelligence. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Asiatic‑Pacific Service medal, the Philippines Liberation Ribbon with 1 star, the good conduct medal and the World War II Victory medal.

After an honorable discharge from the Army, he worked for the Delegation of the Basque Government in Exile to the United Nations as a commercial attache. He became a member of the Centro Vasco Americano (Euzko‑Etxea of New York) and for many years he served as Vice President and Secretary. In later years, he served as delegate from Euzko‑Etxea to N.A.B.O. In 1949 he married Irene Renteria. He is survived by two children, Anna and Marty and two grandchildren, Ryan and Elyse.

Andoni held several positions throughout his life: staff officer in the Merchant Marine during the early 1950's, paymaster for Prudential Steamship Lines, accountant for Lutheran Medical Center, and auditor for Amalgamated Insurance Fund.

Andoni took pride in wearing his txapela (beret) and lapel pin of Basque‑American flags. The Society of Basque Studies is grateful to Andoni for years of dedicated service.

ALYS VINA
Promoter of Basque Culture in the New York Community (1914-1993)

Alys Mason Vina, Angel’s wife, was born in 1914 in Campo Basso, Italy and came to the U.S.A. in 1915. (Did her ship cross with Angel’s in the night in the mid-Atlantic?) Alys first met Angel, at her wedding to her first husband, Cirilio Alonso; a friend of Angel’s with whom he had worked in the 1930’s. They met a second time in 1963, when Angel attended Cirilio’s funeral in Cranford, New Jersey.

Alys and Angel were married in 1965 and together they joined Euzko-Etxea. The rest is history. Alys took to Basque culture like a duck takes to water. She loved everything – the language, the music, the dancing and the singing. She encouraged Angel to practice the txistu and tanbor in the garage and in 1969 Angel became our official txistulari. Alys was always at his side accompanying him, serving as “Mistress of Ceremonies” introducing dances and making certain that the dancers were properly attired. We still remember Alys in her red and green outfits, helping to dress the dancers with their costumes. Alys became an active member and officer of “Andrak”, the Ladies Auxiliary of Euzko-Etxea, served as Secretary of the “Gasteak” Club, and was our reporter to the “Voice of the Basques” published in Boise, Idaho.

Alys was extra special to all of us who had the privilege of knowing and interacting with her. Although she was not born a Basque, she was very Basque! She helped us to realize our unique qualities. She will always be remembered and respected as a very, very special person who touched so many lives within our community.

ANGEL VINA
Promoter of Basque Culture in the New York Community (1914-)

Angel Vina was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1914. His mother, Tomasa Elustondo, returned to Ea, Vizcaya, when Angel was one year old. In Ea he attended school until the age of nine, at which time, his mother sent him to Bilbao to live with his cousins, the Elustondos, to continue his education. In 1926, his mother sent him to the Jesuit Pontifical Seminary in Comillas in the province of Santander as a helper to the wealthy students and to continue his education. Angel fondly remembers his three and a half years with the Jesuits.

At the age of sixteen, he returned to New York where he lived for two years with his Uncle Gabriel Elustondo and Aunt Segunda Gainza. They ran a boardinghouse and for Angel, his uncle’s house was a “Horn of Plenty.” Uncle Gabriel, one of the founding members of Centro Vasco in 1913, introduced Angel to Centro Vasco in 1930. Angel became one of the group of “Spatadanzaris” with professor Emiliana de Zubeldia, a renowned pianist who gave many recitals in New York City. Although very active in the club, Angel could not become a member since his father was not a Basque. (Subsequent by-law changes in the 1960’s afforded him the benefits and responsibilities of full membership.)

Angel remembers Elias Aguirre, Valentin’s brother with kindness. One day, Angel was looking for a txistu and tanbor to play at a picnic at Ulmer Park. He saw a pair of the musical instruments in the window of the Jai-Alai restaurant. Elias Aguirre, Valentin Aguirre’s brother, was serving at the bar and offered them to Angel. When Angel returned them and raved about their quality, Elias responded with, “You really appreciate them, take them, they are yours.”

In 1942, Angel joined the U.S. Navy and served in the North Atlantic on a destroyer until his discharge in 1945. He then secured a position in the N.Y.C. Court System and worked with the Honorable Emilio Nunez, the first Spanish speaking judge in NYC. Judge Nunez was born in Deusto, Vizcaya and came to the U.S.A. at the age of twelve. In 1976, Angel retired as a Senior Court Officer.

Alys and Angel are recognized as exceptionally talented promoters of Basque culture in the New York Metropolitan Area.

THIRTEEN FOUNDERS OF THE FIRST INCORPORATED BASQUE CENTER OF THE UNITED STATES (1913) LOCATED IN NEW YORK CITY

We owe a debt of gratitude to our ancestors for their ability to persevere under the most trying circumstances. If they had not planned ahead, cared for their families, helped each other, adjusted to a life in the new world in spite of language, culture, limited resources and little formal education, we probably would not be here today. Today we honor these 13 brave individuals.

JUAN CRUZ AGUIRRE was born in 1879 in Arrieta, Bizkaia and died in New York in 1959 at the age of 80. He was 23 when he came to New York. Five years later he married Josefa Lezamiz. They had four children: Joe, Elias, John and Lillian (now Fradua). He had learned the trade of machinist in Liverpool, England, and in New York he was hired by the Interboro Rapid Transit system where he worked until he retired. Juan Cruz was one to the most generous and caring of the early Basques in New York, Tony Barben, who is now 94 years old, tells us that when his parents died of tuberculosis, he was scheduled to go to an orphanage. Upon hearing the news, Juan Cruz responded, “I have four children, I can take another.” He adopted Tony and raised him as a member of his own family. This story tells us much about the character of Juan Cruz Aguirre.

VALENTIN AGUIRRE was born in Monte Sollube near Busturia, Bizkaia, in 1871. He died in 1953. At the age of 10 when his father died, he started to work as a cabin boy on ships sailing to the Caribbean and the United States. Valentin married Benita Orbe and settled in New York in 1895. They had eight children: Lucy, Thomas, Antonia, Valentina, John, Peter, Anita and Mary. They ran a boarding house on Cherry Street and then Valentin opened this famous restaurant JaiAlai on 82 Bank Street. He was famous for helping Basques find employment and for making travel arrangements for Basques to get to the West Coast. He was the second president of the Centro Vasco Americano and held that post for many years. Valentin was an enterprising and dynamic person who became the leader of the Basques for many years. His name and his reputation are known across the United States, in Latin America and in the Basque Country.

ELIAS AGUIRRE is a Basque name as common as John Smith in the United States. Whether he was Valentin Aguirre’s brother or another Elias Aguirre has not yet been established. We know Valentin’s brother arrived in the United States in 1881 and that he worked in the mines of the West Coast. He married Cerefina Orube in 1917, but we do not know if he was in New York in 1913, the year of the signing of the Incorporation papers which were prepared by a young lawyer who later became a famous Mayor of New York, Fiorello LaGuardia. We have contacted several Aguirre families in New York, New Jersey and the Basque Country and even asked the Basque Government for help in finding the Elias Aguirre who was in New York in 1913. The true identity of the Founder remains a mystery. If anyone has any information regarding the Founder, Elias Aguirre, we would appreciate hearing about it.

JOSE ALTUNA (1892-1974) affectionately known as “Guiputz” was one of the best known members of the Basque Community. He was the collector of dues for the Centro Vasco Americano of New York for decades. He was born in Mondragon, Guipuzkoa, one of 10 children and came to the United States at the age of 18. He had promised Teresa Urquidi of Marquina that he would work hard in the new country, save his money, bring her over and marry her. Jose kept his word. They had 10 children just as his parents. Jose worked for the New York Transportation system for over 50 years and during those years he devoted his time to the Basque Center. Because his transportation was free, Jose could travel all over New York to visit every member, which he did every day. The Center enjoyed his services and he did not ask for compensation. He also communicated Basque news to the members. Jose Altuna was indeed an unsung hero. His was a labor of love, which he performed daily and consistently. Financially, the Basque Center was healthy and thriving during all those years.

TORIBIO ALTUNA was born in 1890 in Mondragon, Guipuzkoa Gamiz, near Mungia, and died in New York in 1981 at the age of 91. When his was 19, he came to New York accompanied by Sylvestre Goicoechea, the brother of the girl he had promised to marry back home. Apparently Sylvestre thought he would make a good husband for his sister, because soon after Angela Goicoechea from Gamiz, near Mungia, Bizkaia came to New York, Toribio and Angela were married. They had 4 children: Justa, Juan, Angel and Baby Altuna (who died at birth) and 5 grandchildren: Angela, Robert, Larry, Paul, Carol and 10 great grandchildren. After several jobs, Toribio decided to go to night school. He passed a Civil Service test and he became a stationary fireman. He worked at Bellvue Hospital until the day of retirement. He was proud of his job and took pride in his work. His wife died when he was 54 and for the next 37 years he lived with his daughter Justa, his son-in-law, Angel Bilbao, and their children. He played the piano-accordion and obviously inspired his daughter Justa to play the violin. Justa tells us he was a loving father, husband, grandfather and a hard working Basque.

ESTANISLAO BEOBIDE (1869-1936) was born in Elanchove, Bizkaia. His father was a sea captain and, following his father’s footsteps, he also went to sea. At age 11 he became a cabin boy. He learned quickly and worked his way up to chief engineer on ships of the Moore McCormack and Ward Lines. He married Vicenta Bermeosolo when he was 36 years old. They had 5 children: Lino, Josephine, Elias (died very early) Elisa and Elias. When Estanislao left seafaring, he continued working at Hotel Belleclaire. He studied assiduously and got his license as a stationary engineer. In 1927, he was hired by Mrs. Andrew Carnegie to manage the heating system of the enormous mansion at 2 East 91 Street, New York. He loved working at the beautiful mansion, which had elegant gardens and modern heating equipment. Estanislao Beobide was a man of integrity and loyalty. He personified a highly regarded Basque characteristic: You give your word, you keep your word!

GABRIEL ELUSTONDO (1886-1952) was born in Ea, Bizkaia and first came to Philadelphia looking for better opportunities and a better life. Later, in New York, he became a maintenance engineer at the Temple Bar Building at Court and Joralemon Streets in Brooklyn. He married Segunda Gainsa from Gernika and they had three children: Felix, Carmen and Emil. Gabriel was one to the most active and most popular members of Centro Vasco Americano in New York. He was known for his dedication to visit the sick and needy Basques whether at home, at a hospital, in any part of New York City, Ellis Island or Long Island. He was a favorite and everyone knew Gabriel. He was, without question, one of the great contributors to the welfare of Basques in New York.

GUILLERMO GARAY was born in 1885 in Arrieta, Bizkaia and died in New York in 1952 at the age of 67. He came to New York when he was 31 years old and lived at the Marury boarding house at 56 Cherry Street. The running joke was that he was “the visitor who stayed forever.” Guillermo was a reserved and quiet person who usually spoke in Basque and Spanish. His son Peter remembers that when he was 14 or 15, his father arranged to have him play the violin at a gathering at Centro Vasco. Whatever arrangement was made, he recalls that Valentin Aguirre gave him a 5 dollar bill, an impressive amount of money at that time for a young boy. At the age of 48, he must have learned English, for he decided to become a citizen of the United States. The Marury family remembers that he was very good to them.

FLORENCIO ITURRASPE has been one of the most difficult Founders to research. It is generally believed that he married but had no children. Several Iturraspes have been located in Florida and in Bizkaia, but not one is related to the Florencio who signed the Incorporation papers in 1913. The Society welcomes any information that would help to find his relatives.

ADDENDUM: After nearly two years of research with the help of one of the best genealogists of the Basque Country, Alberto Diez de Tubillexa of Gernika, we finally resolved the mystery of the enigmatic Florencio. Elvira Yturbe Preston of Brooklyn, New York, informed us that she had attended school with the granddaughter of Florencio, Marie Eturaspe, not Iturraspe. Further research revealed that Florencio had "Americanized" his name, believing that it would be easier to pronounce. Florencio Iturraspe Etxeandia was born in Elantxobe. Bizkaia on February 23, 1873.
He came to the United States, and in New York married Genoveva of Mundaka, Bizkaia. They had five children: Dionisio, Laurence, Joseph, Martina and Alexander. Florencio was forty years old when he signed the papers of the first Incorporated Basque Center in the United States. He died in Brooklyn at the age of 81 surrounded by his large family of children and grandchildren.

NICOLAS LUZURIAGA (1887-1967) was born in Los Arcos, Navarre to Zenona and Felipe Luzuriaga. He was a young man in his twenties when he came to New York looking for a better life. He worked on a ship as a fireman and later over a period of 20 years he managed and maintained four buildings. He married Maria Altuna and had five children: Philip, Lauriano, Joaquin, Nicolas and Mary (now McGrath). His nostalgia for his homeland was so intense, he would visit the Basque Club every day, even for a few minutes to chat with other Basques. At one time, when Pedro Toja was visiting the Basque Country, he asked him to bring back a bag of soil from his beloved Los Arcos. The Mayor of Los Arcos verified, in writing, that the soil was genuine. The bag was buried with Nicolas when he died.

JUAN ORBE was born in Busturia in 1885 and died in New York in 1931. He came to the United States with the intention of working as a sheepherder, but instead he stayed in New York and became a maintenance worker in the boiler room of the Chase Manhattan Bank in Manhattan. He married Juana Aizpuru, also from Busturia. They had five children: Andrew, Louis, Joseph, Mari Carmen (now Mazza) and Frank. Unfortunately, at age 42, at the time of the tuberculosis epidemic, Juan became a victim of the disease and was sent to an upstate sanatorium. He died within 3 years at the age of 46. His daughter Carmen remembers him as a handsome, gentle and loving father and husband and a dedicated member of the Basque Club. Her mother often said that in the 15 years that they were married, he provided her with enough love for the rest of her life.

ESCOLASTICO URIONA has been another one of our elusive Founders. For a long time, the only information we could gather from the Basques in New York was that he was the oldest of the 13 Founders, was very well educated, that he was the first president of Centro Vasco and that soon after 1913 he returned to his home town. It was only by chance that someone remembered Maria Luisa Belaustegui mentioning someone by the name of Escolastico in her hometown of Busturia. We communicated with Maria Luisa and later visited her and Escolastico’s home near Busturia. We found out that indeed, Escolastico had returned to San Bartolome near Busturia, quite wealthy after having worked and saved his money in America. He built a magnificent home in Canene, a section of Busturia near the "Ermita.” He did not marry and neither did his sister, but his nieces and nephews and their offspring now live in the mansion with the beautiful gardens. Escolastico lived to a ripe old age. He was the guide, mentor and intellectual leader of the men who would meet in the basement of a house on Water Street in the downtown area of Manhattan, sometime around 1905, to discuss the creation of a Basque Center. Those 5 men besides Escolastico were: Valentin Aguirre, Elias Aguirre, Juan Cruz Aguirre and Toribio Altuna.

TIBURCIO URUBURU was born in 1885 in Forua, Bizkaia to Martin Uruburu and Paula Vidaechea. He was a robust young man when he came to New York and worked as a fireman on a tugboat. Later he worked in a factory that manufactured heavy rope and during a span of 17 years, he moved up to an engineering position in the boiler room. In 1941 he died at the age of 56, leaving two daughters, Soledad, known as Sally Newton, and Julia, now Arcara.

18th ANNUAL BASQUE HALL OF FAME
November 1998 - Bakersfield, CA

JEAN & ROSE ERASSARRET
Founders & Teachers of Basque Dancing at Kern County Basque Club (1909‑1982, 1915‑1986)

Jean Erassarret was born in Baigorry, France, on August 30, 1909. At age 18, he came to America as a sheepherder. Rose, born in 1915, in El Paso, Texas, was of Italian background. They met, fell in love and married when Jean was 26 and Rose 20. Theirs was a very enterprising and productive union. First they were involved in the sheep business and then turned to fanning. In 1952 they bought Files & Files Rug Company in Bakersfield, California, where they ran the business until they retired. In addition they produced six children. Jean was skilled at playing pelota and dancing. Rose was an excellent dancer and musician. They made certain that their six children would learn music and Basque dances. Two of their daughters became accomplished accordion players. In the early 1950's, they gathered their six children and all the people interested in Basque dancing and formed the first Basque dance group of Bakersfield. Thus, Basque dancing was introduced to Kern County.

A word must be said about Rose, who was not of Basque origin. She had the extraordinary ability to master Basque music and dance and to pass on her knowledge to others. She was, indeed, an esteemed ambassadress of Basque culture. Although Jean and Rose are no longer with us, Jean died at age 73 and Rose at age 71, they have left us a tradition of Basque dancing in Kern County that continues to flourish today. Currently, the Kern County Basque club has four dance groups with dancers ranging from ages six to thirty. What a great legacy Jean and Rose have given us!

MAYIE MAITIA
“Mother” of Basque Immigrants of Bakersfield (1929)

Mayie Etchebarne Maitia was born May 8, 1929 in St. Etienne de Baigorry, France. She is the seventh of nine children of a close knit family. When Mayie was very young, her mother passed away and, as was the usual Basque custom, her grandmother took over the responsibility of raising the family. It was in this environment that Mayie's character developed. Her religion taught her the importance of caring for others, how to give and how to share. In 1947, when she was 18 years old, Mayie, with some of her brothers and sisters, emigrated to the United States. She worked for Frank and Mary Amestoy, Noriega Hotel and Pyrenees Cafe. Her experience prepared her well for the future.

Mayie met J.B. Maitia, a bartender, and married him in 1947. They had two children, Jenny and Daniel. In 1954, when Mayie was only 25 years old, she and J.B. opened their own restaurant, the Wool Growers Cafe on Summer Street. After more than four decades, Mayie, along with her children, Jenny and Daniel, is still running the restaurant.

Although Mayie worked long hours at the restaurant and cared for two children, she always found time to help Basque immigrants. She had learned the new language and the new ways of dealing with bureaucracy. She helped the new arrivals to face intimidating situations by actually taking them to such places as: the consulate for legal papers, the Department of Motor Vehicles for licensing, travel arrangements, doctors and dentists and all the challenging experiences that newly arrived Basques had to meet. In addition, she employed many Basques at her restaurant. Thus, Mayie became known at the mother or big sister to so many. Mayie has been an inspiration and role model. She has contributed generously to the well‑being of the Basque community.

GRACE LAPORTE ELIZALDE
Restaurateur Benefactor of the Basque Community (1894‑1974)

Grace Laporte Elizalde was born in Anhaux, France on September 11, 1894. At the age of 20 she emigrated to the United State under the sponsorship of Jacques Iriart. For four years she worked, as a maid, for Jack and Grace Iriart in their hotel in Tehachapi. It was in the kitchen of the hotel that she learned the art of great cooking and later when she had her own business, she taught many young people her art. At the age of 24, Grace married John Elizalde, a sheepman. They lived in a sheep camp where their two daughters and two sons were born. In 1927 after disastrous years in the sheep business, John and Grace decided to open hotel Noriega in East Bakersfield. They helped many recent Basque arrivals by employing them in their business. Unfortunately, John died in 1933 leaving Grace to raise alone her four children.

Grace was deeply concerned with the plight of Basque immigrants. She helped them to get employment, get passports, pay taxes, make funeral arrangements and notify the families back home of the death of a person. She knew of cases where the families in the Basque Country lost a loved one who had been left in an unmarked grave. She became the benefactor of the destitute who died with no means for a burial ground. Consequently, she bought ten plots at the Union Cemetery for the needy. She was proud to be Basque and so proud to be an American citizen that she voted in every election. She passed away on Easter Sunday, April 14, 1974. The Basque Community is grateful to her for setting an example of giving generously and understanding the needs of those who were separated from their families.

CARMELO URZA, Ph.D. (1948)
Scholar and Promoter of Basque Studies Programs in the Americas and Abroad

Carmelo Urza was born on July 17, 1948 in Bilbao, Bizkaia. After spending his first five years in Bilboa, Carmelo and his mother joined his father in Boise, Idaho, where he grew up and attended Boise State University. After graduation, Carmelo moved to Reno and entered the Master's degree program in Spanish at the University of Nevada. From Reno, he moved to Iowa where he completed his doctorate in Spanish literature at the University of Iowa. During his undergraduate years, Carmelo enrolled in two overseas studies programs which no doubt influenced him greatly in later years. In 1969‑70 he studied at the University of Madrid and, in summer of 1972, Carmelo enrolled in a Basque Summer Studies Abroad Program organized by the University of Nevada, Reno.

Little did Carmelo know that in 1982, after completing his graduate