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  Mary Ribaudo  as Matilda Landis  

     Mary Ribaudo has been with the Friends of Historic Vineland since its inception over ten years ago.  She was “drafted” into the mix by 

her brother-in-law, Dr. Frank DeMaio, the founder of the group.  So, of course, what better Vineland notable for Mary to portray than Matilda 

Landis, sister to Charles Landis, just as she is sister-in-law to the man who portrays Landis. Matilda Landis was born in Philadelphia on 

April 19, 1848.  She moved to Vineland during the most critical moments of her brother’s career – at the time of the shooting and death 

of publisher Uri Carruth at his hands.  Originally taking up residence with Landis in the family homestead at Landis Avenue and the 

Boulevard, they later moved to 200 North East Avenue in Vineland

.

   She was an active member of the Trinity Episcopal Church on Wood Street , the S.P.C.A., and the Woman’s Club.  But, her primary life’s 

work was to administratively assist the development efforts of her brother in all his business affairs during and after his death.  Her signature 

can be found on original land deeds for properties in both Vineland and Hammonton.  In addition, she accompanied Landis on his many 

travels in Europe where he solicited immigrant families to come to Vineland and build a new life in a new land in his new city.  

   Matilda Landis died on April 23, 1932 – outliving her brother by 32 years – and is buried near him in Siloam Cemetery. In her portrayal 

of Matilda, Mary Ribaudo can identify with many aspects of her life.  Mary’s background in business, layout, and design, make her an indispensable-able part of the Friends of Historic Vineland administrative team assisting brother-in law DeMaio with various projects 

connected with the Friends – specifically the creation and design of the popular Friends of Historic Vineland calendar – the main 

fundraising project for this non-profit group.  At Founder’s day, Mary teams with Friends historian, Anthony Mennone, in their exhibit of 

vintage Vineland photographs, full of stories and details of Vineland history.  Mary takes great joy in seeing people come out to Founder’s 

Day for family fun.  Her favorite event of the weekend is the Friday special exhibitions for busloads of students from the Vineland Public 

Schools, where she takes an active part in teaching them about history.