Barrington Hills philanthropist given preservation honor
Barrington Hills businessman and philanthropist Jasper Sanfilippo has received the National Historic Preservation Medal for his work in restoring and preserving objects of historic cultural significance.
Sanfilippo was nominated for the award by the Barrington area Signal Hill Chapter the Daughters of the American Revolution due to his work in assembling the world's largest collection of restored automatic musical instruments.
The group was founded on the principles of historic preservation, education and patriotism, and felt strongly that Sanfilippo was a perfect candidate for the prestigious preservation award presented by the National Society, the group said in a news release. Only 30 to 40 awards are presented each year throughout the United States,
The chapter last month welcomed 150 visitors to the Sanfilippo estate "Place de la Musique" in Barrington Hills for a three-hour, docent-led tour of the collection.
Tour highlights included a 15-minute concert from the world's largest theater pipe organ, riding on the restored European carousel dating back to 1890, and viewing an original 1881 Grant locomotive, "Victorian Station" caboose and an elegant Pullman Palace car.
Chapter Regent Kathy Boyle and chapter historian Joyce Wright presented Sanfilippo with the Historic Preservation Medal and a framed DAR certificate.
"Mr. Jasper Sanfilippo is exactly the kind of American that serves as an inspiration to the business community and the philanthropic community through his curiosity, diligence and generosity," Boyle said. "This award spotlights his curiosity for machines musical and mechanical, his diligence in restoring and maintaining the collection, and his generosity in sharing this collection with charitable organizations."
Sanfilippo's son Jeffery Sanfilippo addressed the group, which included Marty McLaughlin, president of Barrington Hills, and Karen Darch, president of Barrington, expressing his gratitude to the DAR for recognizing the significance of his father's collection.
Charitable events are regularly held at the "Place de la Musique." Proceeds from the DAR event will support a variety of Signal Hill Chapter programs with a focus on local youth, veterans and active troops, conservation, community service and commemorative events.