Filice and Perrelli Cannery

Filice and Perrelli Cannery

Annamarie Morel

Quick Facts

Location:

1200 Harbour Way S, Richmond, CA 94804

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

MANAGED BY:

Privately Owned

World War II and the Cannery Boom

Opened in 1930, the Perrelli Cannery was established by Joseph Perrelli and quickly became an integral part of Richmond’s industrial landscape. The early years of the cannery were marked by significant challenges, as it struggled to survive the economic hardships of the Great Depression. According to its founder, the cannery “barely made it through” these difficult times, highlighting the resilience and determination of the business and its workers.

The onset of World War II brought a dramatic shift in the fortunes of the Perrelli Cannery. The war effort created new demands for food supplies, and the cannery secured lucrative contracts to provide tomatoes and fruits to the military. This influx of government contracts not only ensured the survival of the cannery but also led to a period of significant growth. During the peak season, the cannery employed up to 1,200 workers, many of whom were essential to maintaining the high levels of production required to meet military needs.

Impact on the Italian-American Community

Despite this economic boom, the war also brought challenges, particularly for the Italian-American community that formed a large part of the cannery’s workforce. Many of these workers, including the founders, were of Italian descent and were deeply affected by wartime policies. In response to security concerns, Richmond was designated a “defense prohibited zone.” This designation imposed strict restrictions on non-citizens and those of Italian descent, many of whom lacked U.S. citizenship despite having lived in the country for years.

As a result, numerous Italian-American workers and community elders were forced to move away from Richmond. This displacement had a profound impact on the community and the cannery, disrupting the lives of many families and affecting the workforce that had been so crucial to the cannery’s operations.

The Legacy of the Perrelli Cannery

Today, the building that once housed the Perrelli Cannery still stands on Harbour Way, serving as a tangible reminder of Richmond’s rich industrial heritage and the complex history of its immigrant communities. 

The Perrelli Cannery’s story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and the enduring impact of historical events on local communities. Its legacy continues to be a significant part of Richmond’s historical narrative, illustrating the vital contributions of immigrant workers to the city’s industrial success and the lasting effects of wartime policies on these communities. 

Description of the Filice and Perrelli Cannery

The Filice and Perrelli Cannery, located in Richmond, California, is a prominent historical structure that reflects the industrial heritage of the area. Established in 1930 by Joseph Perrelli, the cannery became an essential part of Richmond's economic landscape, especially during the challenging times of the Great Depression and World War II.

Architectural Features

Facade: The building features a striking facade with a central arched entrance that adds a sense of grandeur to the industrial structure. The entrance is framed by two stately palm trees, which contribute to the building’s imposing and distinguished appearance.

Signage: Above the arched entrance, the name "The Cannery" is prominently displayed, making it clear to all visitors and passersby of its historical and functional significance. The signage is simple yet effective, adding to the building's overall aesthetic without overwhelming its industrial character.

Windows: The front of the building is adorned with large, multi-pane windows that allow ample natural light to enter the interior spaces. These windows are arranged in a grid pattern, typical of industrial buildings from the early 20th century. The extensive use of glass provides a visual connection between the interior and exterior, emphasizing transparency and openness.

Surroundings and Landscaping

Landscaping: The area surrounding the cannery is well-maintained, featuring manicured shrubs and low-lying plants that complement the building’s clean lines and robust structure. The presence of the palm trees not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a sense of place, linking the building to its Californian setting.

Walkways and Accessibility: A paved walkway leads up to the main entrance, ensuring easy access for visitors. The steps leading to the arched doorway are wide and inviting, creating a welcoming entrance to the historical building.


Note: The cannery may be viewed from the outside. There are no NPS guided tours of this buidling. Please be mindful of the business and their property. 

• Audio Stop: Filice and Perrelli Cannery

  
  

  This brief audio program takes a look a the historic cannery in Richmond, California.

  Credit / Author:

  NPS/Luther Bailey

  Audio Transcript

  Opened in 1930, this cannery “barely made it through” the Great Depression, according to its founder Joseph Perrelli. World War II brought new contracts to supply tomatoes and fruits to the military and allowed the cannery to hire 1,200 workers during peak season.

  However, many cannery workers were Italian, like its founders, and were affected by the new law designating Richmond a “defense prohibited zone.” As a result, many community elders lacked U.S. citizenship and were forced to move away from Richmond. The company’s building still stands on Harbour Way.