News for the Traveler (4)

Today the Shakers are well known for the perfect craftsmanship of their furniture; yet many of their other contributions to our culture have never been proclaimed. Pleasant Hill provides insights into one of America's most successful communal religious societies where hundreds of men and women dedicated their lives to a flourishing utopia.

The Shaker Vilage of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky, preserves 27 original 19th century buildings. All have been accurately restored and adapted to provide visitors with a variety of rewarding experiences. On a self-guided tour you can leisurely wander through 40 rooms of Shaker furnishings in the Centre Family House, learn about the uses of herbs in the Farm Deacon's Shop, watch artisans demonstrate broommaking, cabinetmaking, spinning, weaving, explore kitchen and herb gardens, and hike down the path to the Kentucky River.

There are overnight accomodations in original buildings in 60 guest room furnished with reproduction Shaker pieces and hand-woven rugs and curtains. Kentucky country fare with home baked pies, cakes, and cobblers is offered year round.

Pleasant Hill has a year round calendar of special events too. This year, an added attraction to the village is an authentic paddlewheel riverboat which will make one-hour excusions up the Kentucky River every morning and afternoon, with evening excursions offered seasonally.

The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is located 25 miles southwest of Lexington and 7 miles northeast of Harrodsburg, Kentucky. For reservations, further information, and a calendar of events, write Shakertown at Pleasant Hill , Route 4, Harrodsbury, KY 40330, or call 606-734-5411.