Giuseppe Morello, Italian-American mobster (d. 1930)

Giuseppe Morello, a foundational figure in American organized crime, known by the striking monikers "the Clutch Hand" and "The Old Fox," carved out a notorious legacy as the inaugural boss of what would become the influential Morello crime family. Born on May 2, 1870, and meeting his end on August 15, 1930, Morello's shrewdness and cunning extended his influence significantly into the early 20th century, culminating in his role as a trusted top adviser to the powerful Giuseppe "Joe the Boss" Masseria.

The Man Behind the Monikers

His most distinctive physical characteristic, a deformed right hand with only one finger that strikingly resembled a claw, earned him the indelible and somewhat fearsome nickname "the Clutch Hand." This unique feature not only contributed to his intimidating persona but also became a defining aspect of his legend within the nascent underworld. Among his inner circle and those familiar with Sicilian cultural nuances, he was known as "Piddu," a common and affectionate diminutive for Giuseppe. However, his rivals, particularly members of the emerging Castellammarese faction who would later play a significant role in mob history, often referred to him as Peter Morello, perhaps a deliberate attempt to Anglicize or distance him from his traditional roots.

Founding a Dynasty: From 107th Street to the Genovese Family

Morello's journey into the criminal underworld began in the bustling, often gritty streets of New York City in the 1890s. It was there that he established the formidable 107th Street Mob, a street gang that would rapidly ascend through the ranks of the city's burgeoning Italian-American criminal enterprises. This organization, under Morello's shrewd and often brutal leadership, laid the essential groundwork for what would soon be recognized as the Morello crime family. Over several decades, through various transformations, power struggles, and successions, this influential organization evolved into what is known today as the Genovese crime family. It holds the significant distinction of being the oldest and one of the most enduring of New York City's notorious Five Families, a testament to Morello's foundational impact on the structure of American Cosa Nostra.

Adviser and Elder Statesman

In his later years, Morello’s extensive experience and unparalleled cunning earned him immense respect and an almost elder statesman status within the crime landscape. He transitioned from being an active boss to a pivotal and highly valued adviser for Giuseppe "Joe the Boss" Masseria, one of the era's most powerful crime figures. This role was indicative of Morello's intellectual prowess, his deep understanding of mob politics, and his ability to offer counsel that shaped significant decisions during a tumultuous period preceding the infamous Castellammarese War.

FAQs

What was Giuseppe Morello's primary role in early organized crime?

He was the first boss of the Morello crime family, which eventually became the Genovese crime family, and was a key figure in establishing Italian-American organized crime in New York City during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Why was he called "the Clutch Hand"?

Giuseppe Morello earned the nickname "the Clutch Hand" due to a physical deformity: he had only one finger on his right hand, which gave it the appearance of a claw or a clutch.

What happened to the Morello crime family?

The Morello crime family underwent several leadership changes and power shifts over the decades, eventually evolving into what is known today as the Genovese crime family. This organization remains one of the Five Families of New York City and is considered the oldest among them.

What was his connection to "Joe the Boss" Masseria?

In his later years, Giuseppe Morello served as a highly respected and influential top adviser to Giuseppe "Joe the Boss" Masseria. Masseria was one of the most powerful crime bosses of his time, and Morello's counsel was crucial to his operations.

Is the Genovese crime family still active today?

Yes, the Genovese crime family remains one of the most powerful and active organized crime families in the United States, tracing its lineage directly back to Giuseppe Morello's original organization and maintaining a significant presence in criminal enterprises.