Amelia Carling

Dozens of friends gathered at the Fountain House Senior Residence on West 47th Street on December 15, 2006, to celebrate Amelia Carling, a Fountain House member who reached her 100th birthday on December 7th.

Born in Pennsylvania to Italian immigrant parents, Amelia grew up one of seven girls. She came to New York City in 1931 and worked as a legal secretary for 30 years. She married and had five sons, including a set of twins. In 1992, after struggling with severe depressive episodes, she became a member of Fountain House. “I love Fountain House!” declared Amelia.

Son Robert, a professor of English, and son Paul, an Episcopal priest, reported that their energetic mother had stopped traveling by subway only a year ago.

An accomplished pianist, Amelia has for years shared her gift with residents of nursing homes by playing concerts for them. Of course, many among her audiences are no doubt younger than she is!

Amelia was the life of her party -- dancing, feasting, and, of course, playing the piano. Asked for tips on how to make it to 100, Amelia advised, “Every day have a glass of wine and play the piano.”