- MANOLIO FAMILY
It’s the 55th year for a tradition that began with a quaint 750 shells in 1957. There are 18,344 shells planned for this year’s installment. The whole family – headed up by Betty Manolino and, in memoriam, her husband Ron – gets involved to arrange the display and handle the eggshells. (Watch a trailer for the independent documentary “Eggshelland” below.)
The family garners eggshells from the Sidewalk Cafe. A dime-sized hole in punctured and the contents are shaken out, according to the family. Then the shells are washed and trimmed. “After painting, the shells are stored by color in boxes, with 250 in each box. They are used over again each year, and repainted, if necessary, in the proper colors,” the family writes.
This year’s theme is “A Labor of Love,” which will serve as a tribute to Ron, who died last year. There will be 2,619 shells involved in the tribute alone, so prep your retinas for a kaleidoscope of color.
The Manolios extend a heartfelt thanks to all who have visited over the years.
Eggshelland is located at 1031 Linden Lane in Lyndhurst. The display will be up through April 1. Anticipate tight parking, as well as an warm cascade of emotions and memories.
Follow Eric Sandy on Twitter @ericsandy
This article appears in Mar 20-26, 2013.
AWWW! So sad! First met ron back when i went to my friends house from school [she got bussed] Such a nice man. Too bad this is the last year for this, but it’s gotta be hard for the family now.
Deepest sympathy and well wishes
its the end of an era
I honor the memory of Mr Manolino, and think that it was a kindness to announce that this will be the end to a great many joyous years of their wonderful Easter tradition. Thanks to the Manolino family and to all the helpers over the years. Well done!