Antonino Ajello Sr.
Born in Sicily around 1848, Antonino Sr. immigrated to America in 1862 at the age of 14, carrying with him the candle making secrets of his forefathers. By 1885, he had established his own independent business in New York.
Known as a master craftsman, he created "sweet-scented formulations" from a secret family recipe. He was the visionary who secured the family's reputation, passing away in 1938 after building a nationally recognized institution.
"Master of his craft... known throughout the world."
- The New York Times, 1938Antonino Ajello Jr.
Born in 1902, Antonino Jr. grew up in the wax-scented workshops of his father. He continued the legacy with equal fervor, working side-by-side with Antonino Sr. on their most ambitious projects.
Together, they created the legendary Enrico Caruso Memorial Candle. Antonino Jr. led the company through the mid-20th century, maintaining the showroom at 100 East 50th Street and serving a new generation of elite clients until his passing in 1964.
Ralph A. Ajello
Brother to Antonino Jr. and President of A. Ajello & Bros, Ralph (1905-1971) was a crucial pillar of the business. He was known for his lectures on the art of candle making and maintained a shop for experiments in Bronxville, ensuring the family's innovation continued alongside tradition.