Seventy-five years after Luigi DeSantis cared for the grounds and the grotto, DeSantis Landscapes returns to Mount Angel Abbey.
In 1905, Luigi DeSantis arrived in New York from Montefortino, Italy. He spoke no English. He had one suitcase, a deeply-rooted belief in his faith, and a determination to succeed in the land of opportunity.
A strawberry farmer and patriarch of an extended Oregon family now in its sixth generation, Luigi devoted the last chapter of his life to serving nature—tending the land, the orchards and the stations of the cross that line the hillside of the Mount Angel Abbey.
On May 1, 2022, DeSantis Landscapes brings Luigi’s story full circle.
“Entering into a landscape services relationship with Mount Angel Abbey is as purpose-driven as it is personal,” said Dean DeSantis, president of DeSantis Landscapes and Luigi’s great grandson, who notes that the Benedictine tradition of living in harmony with nature and respect for life on earth is well-suited to sustainable stewardship.
“Our team is looking forward to taking an active role in keeping the Abbey’s extensive green space an optimal setting for prayer and meditation, as well as furthering the role well-tended gardens play in monastic life,” added Dean.
Mount Angel Abbey is a Roman Catholic monastery, Benedictine community, and School of Theology founded in St. Benedict, Oregon in 1882. www.mountangelabbey.org
To learn more about the history of DeSantis Landscapes and its commitment to environmental stewardship, go to: www.desantislandscapes.com
Photo: courtesy DeSantis Family Archives. Dean at 7 ½ months with Luigi in the Grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mother, Mount Angel Abbey.
