Mid-nineteenth century Gozo from an unpublished contemporary source

Abstract

A slim manuscript volume containing sixty-four pages and three pages of a rudimentary index throws considerable light on life in Gozo in the mid-1800s. The volume written in Italian and measuring 22 cm by 16 cm has a very modest and unobtrusive title page. In block letters we find the word 'GOZO' to which the words 'memorie sul' were subsequently added, thus resulting in the title of 'Memorie sul Gozo'. The origin and authorship of the volume is unknown. It was found among the papers of my late father and there are no indications at all of how, why and when it came to be written. It is penned in a very clear hand and by a very organised and observant person who, it seems, was determined to record certain events, incidents and personalities. He was also remarkably interested in the topography of Gozo, very carefully listing places and minutely describing locations. It appears to have been written over a span of time, maybe years. There are indications that he added on to what he had written earlier and in very few cases are there traces of 'pentimento'.