Societa' Degli Operai Di Mutuo Soccorso
Museum | Borgomanero | Piemonte | Italy
The Società Operaia di Mutuo Soccorso in Borgomanero, Piedmont, is a historical workers' association founded in 1861. It played a central role in the social and cultural development of the labor movement in the region.
History and Development:
The founding of the society in 1861 was a response to the social and economic challenges faced by the working class in the 19th century. It provided its members with support in the form of sick pay, pensions, and educational facilities. In the early 20th century, the society moved to a new building at Corso Roma 136, designed by engineer Marcello Zorzoli from Novara. This building was expanded in 1922 and in 1929, a ballroom with Art Nouveau iron decorations was added.
Current Use:
Today, the building houses the Fondazione Centro Studi per le Società Operaie di Mutuo Soccorso della Regione Piemonte, dedicated to researching and documenting the history of workers' associations. It also houses the Casa del Dialetto, dedicated to dialect researcher Giovanni Colombo, as well as a photography museum.
The Società Operaia di Mutuo Soccorso in Borgomanero is a significant cultural center that preserves and promotes the history and heritage of the labor movement in the region.
