Address: 21 Fetter Lane, YO1 6DF
Description
Stretched across the building, a long white sign proudly proclaims “Makers of Pure Ices/J.Capaldi/Wholesale and Retail” in bold, black capital letters.
History
Let’s scoop into the sweet saga of J.Capaldi, a tale as rich and delightful as the ice cream they’re famed for.
Our story begins with a young Joe Capaldi, who, at the age of 12, journeyed from Picinisco, Italy, to England – finding his way from Manchester to the historic streets of York.
In the cozy kitchen of their Layerthorpe home, Capaldi churned his dreams into reality in the early 1930s, selling homemade icecream from ponies and carts.
Source: York Press
As his sweet enterprise flourished, the Capaldis decided it was time to expand. By 1947, they welcomed a new chapter with the opening of their ice cream factory on Fetter Lane.
They continued at this location until 2003, when the family moved to Birch Park Huntington. The family’s legacy continued until their retirement in 2010.
Source: York Press
Fun fact: the acclaimed actor Peter Capaldi is a very distant cousin, sprinkling a bit of star dust on this already enchanting family tale.
Despite many Capaldis settling in Scotland and establishing their own ice cream legacy in Brora, the J.Capaldi sign in York remains a beloved landmark.
Got thoughts or a story to share about this iconic sign? We’re all ears—drop your comments below and join the conversation!