History of Bartolotta Fireworks

For the Bartolottas, the fascination of fireworks began in the 1930's with Sam Bartolotta (photo right) . "He loved fireworks since he was a kid." said Jim Bartolotta, Sam's son. "They shot them down in the Third Ward where he grew up", said Sam's other son, Jeff Bartolotta.

After years working as a lithographer, Sam decided to expand his hobby of building fireworks into a full-time job. "His goal was to get all of his sons and daughters involved in the business", Said Jeff. The kids grew up watching and learning from their father about the art of fireworks display.

After learning the ropes while their father still dabbled in fireworks as a hobby, the sons were ready to make a career out of it by the time Bartolotta Fireworks Company opened its doors in 1977. Jim joined the ranks first with his father, followed by Jeff a couple of years later. Jean, their sister, helps out with the business as well.