Preservationist Nancy Cataldi dies at 55

Nancy Cataldi, long-time president of the Richmond Hill Historical Society, passed away in her home on Wednesday, October 29 of natural causes. She was 55 years old.
According to sources, Cataldi had been set to meet friends, and when she didn’t show up, her boyfriend became concerned.
Aside from her work with the Historical Society, Cataldi was also a member of the Historic Districts Council’s (HDC) Board of Directors.
“Nancy was a dear friend and unflagging advocate for her neighborhood who repeatedly pushed her elected officials and the Landmarks Preservation Commission to recognize the remarkable Victorian homes that make up Richmond Hill,” read the HDC November newsletter. “From community parties and events to educational programs for local youth, Nancy worked diligently to preserve and share Richmond Hill’s unique history with the rest of New York City.”
According to the HDC, Cataldi was a professional photographer whose work appeared in Rolling Stone, People and The New York Times.
In addition, she was the co-author of two books on Richmond Hill history, served as historian for Maple Grove Cemetery and curated the current exhibit open at the new Italian American Museum, “The Immigrant Experience: Banca Stabile - Cornerstone of Little Italy.”
In recognition of her efforts, the HDC awarded Cataldi a Grassroots Preservation
Award in 2005.
“Nancy Cataldi embodied the best of what a community has to offer,” said Republican District Leader Eric Ulrich. “She was a wonderful, beautiful person who will be sorely missed.”