Since visiting South Union Shaker Village in Kentucky last year and hearing them describe Pleasant Hill Shaker Village, I had wanted to visit. Our chance came this year when we were invited to tour Pleasant Hill as part of our adventures in Harrodsburg. Pleasant Hill began in December 1806, when forty-four converts of legal age signed a covenant agreeing to mutual support and the common ownership of property. The colony, founded in the rugged wilderness, continued to expand, boasting over 4000 acres and around 500 members. It’s downfall began during the Civil War, when armies from both sides used much needed resources. The colony managed to remain open until 1910. Today, Pleasant Hill Shaker Village expands across 3000 acres and contains 34 Shaker structures.
Many people, knowing the Shakers were celibate, do not realize how progressive the Shakers were. In a time where women were treated as second class citizens and slavery was common, the Shakers sometimes incurred the wrath of some of their neighbors for their practice of purchasing slaves and setting them free. Women were allowed an active voice in the governing of the village, with two men and two women acting as elders.
Women were taught a craft alongside the men and could leave the village at any time if they decided the Shaker lifestyle was not for them. They used the most modern appliances and methods available at the time throughout their village and had astute business sense. They built a private road leading through the village and charged travelers a toll, helping support their village.
Once inside the village, we began with a tour through the Historic Centre. The tour is included in the price of the ticket to the village and I highly recommend it. Our guide was able to fill us in on the background of the Shakers, explain their daily life in detail and answer any questions we had. After the tour guests are allowed to explore the buildings at their own pace. The buildings are filled with interactive exhibits for the kids, bringing the past to life. I found Brittany writing about our experiences in the community “Shaker journal” and later, dressing up as a Shaker woman and taking a selfie. Reenactors throughout the buildings show how items were made and patiently answer questions.
After strolling through the village, we visited the gardens and the farm area, including a barn lot with animals the Shakers would have kept; horse, Merino sheep and more. For anyone who is hungry after their adventures, lunch is available at The Trustee’s Table, featuring recipes used by the Pleasant Hill Shakers themselves!
Although Brittany told me, “Anyone could easily spend an entire day here with kids!” there is also a “$5 after 5:00” program, allowing patrons the opportunity to spend the evening at the village. Of course, it’s not all history! Down by the River guests can try Stand Up Paddleboarding, SUP Yoga or an afternoon Riverboat Ride.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop and try a sample of some of the homemade Shaker foods, we purchased honey and it is possibly the best we have ever eaten. You can learn more about the Shaker Village and surrounding area by visiting http://www.harrodsburgky.com.
Ive driven through Kentucky a number of times but have never planned a stop there. This looks exactly like the type of place I would want to visit though.
I love learning about places like these. I can’t wait to really get out there with my boys and do some serious traveling. Beautiful pictures!
I’ve always been fascinated by the Shakers. A bit of a history geek here.
Love visiting little history villages like this. I have never been to this Shaker village but have visiting others. It is so interesting.
Looks like a beautiful place to visit. I enjoy visiting historical places and would sure love to live in a house like that.
What a beautiful place. I would love to visit here. It would make a great vacation spot.
I’m glad you had a nice visit and some delicious honey. It looks very peaceful. 🙂
Wow, what a lovely looking place. I have a few friends in Kentucky. I’d love to visit one day, and take a look at this little village. I love villages like this.
What a great deal to see this place for $5 after 5pm. What a cute little place to see!
I have never been to a Shaker village before. It looks like it would be fascinating to go and explore.
It’s a beautiful way to spend a day,exploring the gorgeous buildings and grounds. I know I would love the whole experience from the history to the dining.
There’s a lot of Shaker history that I know very little about. I’d love to be able to see Pleasant Hill, not only for its beauty but the history also.
That looks so quaint and homey! It seems fun to visit.
This definitely seems like it’s worth a visit. I’ve only been to Kentucky a few times but I need to look through your travel posts before I plan my next trip there.
Cultures and communities like the Shakers and the Amish really fascinate me. I would love to learn more about them and tour their villages.
What a neat trip you had. I love historical places like this. It is such a educational adventure.
Oh my gosh I love it! I love going on adventures and checking out old historic sites! I will have to see about a weekend trip for this one!
What an intriguing visit. I enjoy seeing and reading about historic areas. The Shaker Village would be a wonderful place to wander through and learn.
This sounds like a neat place to visit. I like that you can get in after 5:00 for $5.00.
How very interesting. We have a Shaker village not far from here, too, and it’s interesting to read how they lived.