The Kenilworth Historical Society presents a new film documenting Joseph Sears and the founding of Kenilworth

Written and produced by award-winning filmmaker John Newcombe, “Kenilworth: The Suburban Ideal” is an authentic historical account of the early village, detailing Joseph Sears’ vision for creating his idyllic community. The film includes many recollections from early residents, including excerpts from the extensive hand-written diaries of Joseph Sears’ daughter, Dorothy.

In 1889, retired businessman Joseph Sears wanted to move his family from Chicago to the North Shore. When he discovered the last available lakefront property was the level area of land between Winnetka and Wilmette, he knew it was far too large for a one-family farm, so he decided to try the experiment of creating a little village. He attracted some of the city’s best architects and builders as well as the city’s powerful elite. Kenilworth would become the ultimate expression of Joseph Sears’ lifelong beliefs and ideals. The DVD also includes the short film “Kenilworth: Expanding the Dream” chronicling the expansion of the village in the early 20th century and the formation of the Kenilworth Historical Society. Winnetka native John Newcombe is an award-winning filmmaker who lives and works in Los Angeles. His documentary “Winnetka Story” was given the Superior Achievement Award by the Illinois Association of Museums, while his California documentary “Rancho La Canada” won the prestigious Los Angles County Commendation Award and the Montrose Preservation Award.

“Our objective was to create an accurate and interesting film documenting the history of Kenilworth for our current village residents and for future generations,” Tim Miller, KHS