The Famous Bonorris Nose



Oh sure, a bean or two has wandered its way up a few nostrils on my mom's side of the family, but what about the Bonorris' nasal heritage? Needless to say, there is most definitely a sinus connection there, for in my father's family, from the first Bonorris to immigrate to the United States from Greece, there have always been those sporting the most prodigious protuberances.

Papou Bonorris


My grandfather, Steven George Bonorris, emigrated from Greece in 1907 aboard the St. Louis at the age of 12. Family research uncovered an account of his journey and encapsulated life history, as well as the official record from Ellis Island, where he was detained due to his youth. The record does not reflect whether or not they held him due to the size of his schnozz.

My Papou's nose was more broad than my grandmother's, which is narrower but marked by flaring nostrils. I, myself, have my father's nose, which is a combination of both: high, narrower bridge, flaring to a wide bulbous base. The best of both, in other words. The dominating strength of this nose- gene has sparked hot debate among anthropologists and geneticists. In what way does such a spacious porthole satisfy some arcane biological imperative? Why would Nature select for a big nose?

I have my own theory, of course, one involving beans and the dangers of having small nasal cavities.

But that's another story.


Papou's Autobiography

January 14, 1955
My name is Steve G. Bonorris
As I look back through these few days of our short dream, my first thought comes to my mind to thank God, who kept me from falling into the Earthly Temptations. How easy it was for me to fall into the Pitfalls, if it wasn't for his Guidance, and his watchful care. So here are a few of my Earthly Material Achievements, of the wonderful journey in what we called life.

I was born in Ahladocambos Argos Greece. February 12th 1894. My Father's name was George, a hard working Farmer, honest and straightforward man. My mother's name was Mary, a very good wife to my Father, and a real Mother to us. Five Brothers. I am the second oldest of the five Brothers, and all of us still living. My Father died 1917 my Mother in 1934. I departed from Greece for the United States in May 1907 . Upon arrival in New York, the Immigration Authority held me back on account of my age. I was too young. After one week of daily Examinations, they let me enter, Thank God! I was the happiest boy in the World. Even that I was crying day and night the week that they held me in Ellis Island, at last my dream came true. From 1907 to 1917 it was a hard, tough life for me. As I was very young, and no one to get advice from.

In September 1917 was drafted in the Army, and in Sept 1918 I participated in the Argone Battle, and in Belgium, Febrary 1919 was decorated by General Pershing, with the Distinguished Service Cross. April 1919 was discharged from the Army with the rank of Sargeant.

November 1923 left for Greece. May 31st, 1924 married to Coula Kalopisis age 17 - in Ahladocambos Argos Greece a very nice Country Girl. My wife and I being blessed with two Good boys George and Jim, George born May 1st 1925, Jim born May 9th, 1929. In Comparison we had and have a very good life, we worked hard we had our ups and downs but we manage to come out with Courage and start over again.

(my Papou Steven died in 1968, he was 74 years old.)



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