A Lovely Day in Kentucky

By Victoria Boster –

Shaker Village, located in Pleasant Hill, KY is home to the largest restored Shaker community in the United States. As the sultry days of summer give way to the chills of fall- this quiet, once vital community is ablaze with the vibrant colors of autumn.

Guests who visit Shaker Village will find this to be the perfect place to escape from modern life. Designated as a National Historic Landmark- this restored 3000 acre village is a window into the people and traditions of another time. This community nestled among gently rolling hills, frequently softened by early morning river mists- is bordered by over 25 miles of iconic rock fences- the largest known collection of rock fences in this country. In and around the community are those pristine white plank fences – the subject of photo taking enthusiasts ever since Shaker Village began welcoming guests.

Shaker Village was established in 1805. At its peak in 1840, this utopic community had over 500 members. The Shaker religion was founded on the belief that celibacy was more honorable than marriage. They held property in common and believed in equality of race and gender- enlightened ideas that were a vital part of their religious foundation- ( long before these ideas were ever popular thinking in today’s society). Declining numbers and changing conditions left only a few members and the village was finally closed in 1910.

Originally referred to as “Shaking Quakers” in reference to their unusual trembling in worship services- the Shakers were dedicated to a simple life of productive labor and perfection.

Shakers were first class organizers and maintained clutter free surroundings. The wooden pegs that visitors see installed high on the walls in most rooms were used to hang clothes on as well as chairs and other small objects. Most rooms traditionally contained a bed, chairs, small table, and two candle stands. Their lives were stark and simple.

A visit to Shaker Village transports one to a bygone era. This historic community features 34 original 19th century buildings. To truly experience all that the Village has to offer– plan to spend a night or a weekend in one of the 70 accommodations located in these beautifully restored buildings. Dine by candlelight in the Trustees Office and then take a late night stroll along a lane where lanterns cast the only glow. The soft sigh of the breeze among the trees or the occasional bay of a farm animal is the only sound to break the utter silence.

The village offers tours of the original buildings, craft exhibitions, and authentic Shaker song and dance demonstrations by costumed interpreters. Once you’ve had your fill of Shaker History- the pastoral scenery in this 3000 acre community has plenty more to offer.

Nearby woodlands are dense with surprises and are ideal for hikers, nature trail walkers, bird watchers, bikers, and even equestrians. You can also cruise the Kentucky River aboard the authentic Dixie Belle stern wheeler.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is open year round, though attraction availability varies by season. General adult admission is $15 and includes access to the property, guided tours, music performances, craft exhibitions, and exhibits of Shaker artifacts.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
3501 Lexington Road
Harrodsburg, KY 40330
Toll Free: 800.734.5611
www.shakervillageky.org

An empty nester who now spends many hours crafting knitted artisan “nests”~ Vicki is passionate about her hobbies, her travels and her busy life. Vicki states that she loves to travel and that she and her husband are always either  just getting back or just getting ready to go- someplace. Between travels Vicki works full time as a Neonatal Nurse in Huntington, West Virginia.” When she is not on the go, you can find Vicki at her blog http://www.vicki-2bagsfull.blogspot.com/.